Golden Rule Dog Training

What methods do you use?: We use motivational and reward-based methods including clicker training and lure-reward training.. We highly value, and therefore teach, the importance of building a relationship between the dog and human family members. No physical force or physical punishment will ever be used in a Golden Rule Dog Training session.

What kind of classes do you offer?: We teach a wide variety of classes including Puppy Socialization and Training, Basic Family Dog Training, Obedience for Agility, Agility for Puppies, Canine Good Citizen, Tricks and all levels of Agility. We offer a wide variety of classes for puppies, adolescents, and adult dogs.

How many students are in each class?: The maximum number of students in a class is 6.

May I bring my spouse/children?: Yes. We think it is good to involve other family members in training. It is very important that all family members are consistent with training so the dog does not become confused.

What if I want a private lesson?: We offer private lessons at our place or yours.

Where are the classes held?: We teach all group classes and many private lessons in a large fenced enclosure at the Earlysville Animal Hospital. We frequently train indoors and use the waiting and exam rooms at the hospital if the weather is not favorable. The animal hospital is located on Earlysville Road about 6.5 miles from Hydraulic and Rio Roads in Charlottesville.

What kinds of things will I learn in a group class?: In all basic level classes you learn to get and keep your dog's attention, how to teach your dog to Sit, Lie Down, Stay, Walk Politely on a leash, Leave-it, Come when called, and how to solve or manage many common problems such as: jumping up, being too mouthy, stealing food, barking excessively, etc.

Do you use choke collars?: No. If needed, we use other products which we believe are more humane and effective.

What should I bring to class?: For beginning level Family Dog Class and Puppy Socialization and Training classes (5 weeks or more), bring just yourself to the first class. We do not have dogs at the first class because we have found that the owners are so distracted and often stressed by the dog's exuberant behavior that they don't learn very much. This does not apply to advanced levels, or specialty classes such as Tricks or Agility.

For all other classes, please bring:: a HUNGRY dog (skip the meal preceding the class); your dog wearing a tightly-fitted buckle collar or a Gentle Leader; 2-3 cups of small (pencil eraser sized) delicious SOFT treats; a 4 or 6 foot leash; a fanny pack or carpenter-style apron to hold the treats; warm clothes, and/or layers of clothing, if weather dictates; comfortable/practical/safe foot wear; baggies for cleaning up after your dog; sunscreen, hats, and bug spray if desired

What NOT to bring:: flexi-style (retractable) leashes; a collar so loose that your dog may back out of it; prong collars; choke collars; "boring" dog biscuits

What type of treats do you use?: We prefer small, soft yummy treats since we will be rewarding frequently. Pieces the size of an eraser are perfect. Some ideas are: chicken, beef, liver, meatballs, Cheerios, hot dogs, cheddar cheese, string cheese, Natural Balance or Red Barn (a sausage-like semi-soft dog food, available from local pet supply stores), leftovers, Cheez-its, cheese puffs, etc. At home, kibble and dog biscuits may work just fine. In class, most dogs need something of a higher value because of all the distractions.

How much does it cost?: Group classes will cost between $75.00 and $125.00 depending on the length of the session. Fees for private lesson depend upon instructor, location and travel time.

How soon can I start?: Classes fill quickly, so sign up early. In most cases, you will be able to start your class within the month. Your spot in the class will not be confirmed until your registration form and payment are received.

How do I sign up or schedule an appointment?: Call us at the above number, or better yet, use this link to our on-line registration form. Classes are filled on a first-come-first-served basis and you must mail your form and all fees to us to reserve a space. If you don't do the cyberspace thing, your phone call is fine. We will gladly mail you a registration form.