Whether you've just brought an eight-week-old puppy home from a breeder or a three-year-old rescue home from the shelter, this course will help you set them up for lifelong success!

From in-home management to leash walking, play development to e-collar conditioning, this 14 module, 60+ lesson course will walk you through our best-in-class our puppy raising practices in depth and share tips to ensure you feel confident in raising your new canine companion into the dog of your dreams.

This course is the perfect fit for dog owners who are excited to dive in and immerse themselves in the process of training their dog. We break concepts down into digestible, bite size pieces so that even first time owners will feel like seasoned dog trainers. 

What you’ll learn as part of this course:

• IN-HOME MANAGEMENT – Learn how to create a safe and structured environment conducive to good behavior.
• CLEAR MARKER SYSTEM – Lay the foundation of clarity right from the start through a clear marker system.
• LEASH WALKING – Master leash walking techniques for peaceful and enjoyable walks.
• PLAY DEVELOPMENT – Discover effective ways to engage with your dog through play.
• E-COLLAR CONDITIONING – Gain confidence in using an e-collar responsibly and effectively.
• STOP UNWANTED BEHAVIORS – Make jumping, endless barking, digging, and other bad behaviors a thing of the past.

… And much, much more! 

COMMANDS THAT WE'LL FOCUS ON IN THIS COURSE:

• NAME RECOGNITION – look to you for direction when name is given
• HERE – recall to handler
• SIT – sit and remain in position until released, automatic sits at heel position
• DOWN – down and remain in position until released
• PLACE – go to a specific boundary and remain until released (bed, crate, etc.)
•  HEEL – walk on left side, nose to knee, auto sit when handler stops walking
• SWITCH – switch from left side to right when heeling
• LET’S GO – follow along, less structured loose leash walk
• WATCH – make eye contact with handler
• TOUCH – two paws on object, i.e. a rubber feed bowl
• OUT – drop a toy

MARKERS THAT WE'LL FOCUS ON IN THIS COURSE:

• KEEN/CLICK – terminal marker / release word for food reward direct from handler; builds drive, enthusiasm and engagement 
• GET IT – terminal marker / release word for toy reward or food reward delivered indirectly by handler (tossed out)
• YES – terminal marker / release word for toy reward direct from handler (optional)
• FREE – terminal marker / release word with no reward (freedom is the reward)
• GOOD – duration marker; let’s your dog know you like what they are doing and to keep doing that behavior; food, affection, or praise reward
• NICE – duration marker; let’s your dog know you like what they are doing and to keep doing that behavior; no reward (optional)
• EH-EH – lets your dog know that they are on the wrong track
• NO – stop unwanted behaviors

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between this course and the “E-Collar Train Your Dog In 3 Weeks” course?

• This course is more comprehensive and has a greater focus on puppy raising from start to finish. E-Collar Train Your Dog In 3 Weeks features two board-and-train dogs as they move through our in-person program, Keen Camp. In order to participate in this Keen Camp, dogs must be 6 months of age. Naturally, that course is more geared to mature dogs who are ready to go through a more expedited training program.

Does access to this course ever expire? Is lifetime access included?

• It’s impossible to predict the future, but it’s our intention that you should have lifetime access to the content included in this course. If for any reason we have to change platforms or decide to change our course offerings, we will contact you and come up with a solution to keep the course content available to you, though it may be in a different format.

What format is the content? Does each module have videos?

• This course includes 14 modules, comprising 60+ lessons. Almost all lessons include videos, and all include written content.

What training methods are used?

• We take a modern, balanced approach to training. We do not use a one size fits all approach; we train the dog in front of us, utilizing all four quadrants of operant conditioning.

When is the best time to start this course?

• As soon as possible! If you are anticipating getting a puppy, reading through this course before bringing them home will give you a heads start. If you already have the dog you’d like to train, don’t delay! It’s a lot easier to set your dog on the right course from the beginning than it is to fix bad habits and behavior issues. That includes when you bring an older dog into your household and establish new expectations and boundaries! 

Is an e-collar included with this course?

• No, an e-collar is not included, though we do include recommendations for our favorite brand and model!

Is a training manual included with this course?

• Yes! The training manual is a comprehensive reference PDF that we developed for our in-person clients. We have included it as part of this course and you can use it as a printable summary of course content if desired.

Is access to KeenDog boarding and group classes included with this course?

• No, access to KeenDog boarding and group classes is not included with this online course. If you’re local to the Charlotte / Fort Mill area and you’re interested in boarding with our trainers or participating in group classes, we would be happy to do an in-person assessment with you and your dog(s). Please email [email protected] to request an in-person assessment.

What if I decide that I need more hands-on support?

• Let us know! Our team is always available to answer questions, but beyond that we’re also happy to walk you through the options available to you as far as virtual lessons, board-and-train programs, etc. 

Not sure whether a KeenDog online course is right for you and your dog? Schedule a virtual consultation with one of our trainers. They’ll be happy to discuss your needs and point you in the right direction!