Dog Training

For any of our puppy classes, puppies must be up to date for their age, with at least the first set of DHPP shots, usually given between 6-8 weeks of age. Veterinarians will suggest different guidelines for your puppy, so please take their advice into consideration. We also require Bordetella vaccine. According to PA State Law all puppies over 16 weeks of age must have a valid Rabies Vaccine.

We agree with the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior’s Position statement: “In general, puppies can start puppy socialization classes as early as 7-8 weeks of age. Puppies should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days prior to the first class and a first de-worming. They should be kept up to date throughout the class.”

For non-puppy classes, all dogs must have the following vaccines:

• DHPP
• Rabies
• Bordetella

We also suggest a Canine Flu (CIV) vaccine, but it is not required at this time.

For the first class you will need to provide your vaccination records. We prefer you email them to daycare@playfulpupsretreat.com ahead of time.

• Small treats (about the size of a fingernail) – something like chopped up pieces of low-fat hotdogs, string cheese or any other high-value soft treat that agrees with your dog.
• A hungry dog. Please don’t feed your dog for at least 4 hours before class. If you have a highly food-motivated dog, then your trainer may advise you to give them half their food rations before class.
• A standard 6ft leash and nylon collar or body harness. **Please no flexi leads!
• If you are already using a head collar, such as a Gentle Leader or Halti, then bring that too. If you are planning on using a head collar, please do not put it on your dog for the first time just before class. Your dog will spend the first session feeling uncomfortable and trying to remove it. Our trainer can give guidance on the best way to acclimate a dog to this new tool.
• A water bowl and water. Training makes a dog thirsty, and a stressed dog can also get thirsty. Don’t forget water for yourself!

We do offer private dog training sessions. Private dog training is available in individual lessons or as packages. If you have a dog behavioral problem such as fear, anxiety, dog aggression, human aggression, resource guarding or other problem behavior, your trainer will make an initial appointment to conduct a full behavioral consultation. After the initial consultation your trainer will be in a better position to advise you on the Behavior Modification Program needed and how long it may take to reach your goals.

Positive reinforcement means you are giving the dog something it likes whereas Positive Punishment means you are giving the dog something it does not like. At Playful Pups, we use the least aversive and minimally intrusive training methods possible. We work to minimize stress and maximize fun! Dogs do not seek to avoid or escape the methods we use, so yes, we are positive trainers. We NEVER inflict mental or physical harm on any dog. Our methods are educational, instructional, effective and efficient and most importantly they are user friendly. Friendly for the dog and friendly for the owner.

Yes! If your dog is only partially deaf, then we can still use the clicker or the word ‘yes’. If your puppy or dog is completely deaf, then we use hand signals or other visual cue to teach them desired behaviors. We love working with all dogs including those that have unique challenges!

Our training classes are held year-round at our Daycare & Training Center which is located at:

406 Hershey Rd.
Elizabethtown, PA 17022

Our class fees are typically non-refundable, but if you realize you will be unable to attend the class please notify us at least 5 days before the first day of class. This way, we have time to schedule other clients who may have been waiting for an opening. If you fail to give us notice that you cannot make it to your class, the regular class rate will still be charged.