Smarty Paws Canine Coaching

What is Agility?

It is the most fun you can have with your dog!! It involves an obstacle course for dogs, including jumps, tunnels, teeter-totters, climbing a-frames and dog walks plus weaving thru upright poles — all against the clock.

Faults can be incurred by knocking bars or going off course, so agility and obedience come together to demonstrate the training and bond shared by dog and handler.

Any breed or size of dog, including mixed breeds, can enjoy agility as there are many venues available to compete with your dog.

Agility can also help build confidence, enhance the bond between owner and dog and become a great outlet for energy for many active dogs (and handlers)!

Agility students may never compete, but will greatly benefit from the time spent training and interacting with their dogs. Both owners and dogs will learn new skills to use throughout life, keeping the dog active and choosing correct activities for its energy!!!

• --> Agility Classes for Beginner Handlers

  FOUNDATION CLASS - STARTING OFF RIGHT
  This class is open to dogs 12 weeks and older, and any experience level.
  Games will be used to begin to build teamwork between dog and handler. This will be a hands on, busy class in which you will learn the following:

  • Basic control foundation:
  • Sit, down, stay, both sides and recalls with distractions.
  • Intro to clicker work.
  • Handler will learn mechanics of handling with and without dog. Handler will learn to be consistent with their handling, thus helping to create confidence in their dog, which will lead to speed later on!!!
  • Handler will learn how to build and maintain drive-and get their dog to would like to work even in distracting environments.
  • Ground work for agility and body awareness skills will be taught.
  • Introduction to low equipment with emphasis on fun, correct and safe execution.
     

  INTRO TO AGILITY
  This class is open to dogs 10 months and older. The focus of this class is for the dog and handler to learn each obstacle in a safe and positive manner. The key is to build confidence, which will later lead to speed and consistency from the dog. All of the contact equipment is fully adjustable, and new dogs learn on lowered equipment and gradually increase to full height.

  Lots of treats are used as well as toys to reward dogs while they learn and to keep them motivated.
  Basic handling skills are learned as we begin short sequences.

  No pinch, choke or electronic collars are used, and no corrections are needed!!!

  This is a fun class for dog and handler to bond while learning new skills, building confidence and giving the dog a job to do!!!

  Graduation consists of Agility games and prizes.

  Prerequisites for Intro to Agility Class:

  • Walk on leash, sit, down, recall with distractions.
  • Know what motivates your dog, toys, treats ,etc.
  • If you are unsure of your dog’s abilities, a private evaluation may be scheduled.
  • You may also enroll your dog in our Starting Off Right or Basic Obedience class before enrolling in Intro to Agility.

  Einstein Intro to Agility

  This class is open to any dog and handler team that has completed our Starting Off Right class, regardless of age.

• --> Agility Classes for Intermediate Handlers

  INTERMEDIATE AGILITY
  This class picks up where the intro class leaves off. Dog and handler teams are now performing short sequences of obstacles, off leash, with the handler using verbal and body cues to direct the dog. The focus is on building consistent body cues and to prevent bad habits from forming on the part of the dog and/or handler.

  Contact obstacles increase to full height in this class.

  Control exercises are also used in class to continue working on our dogs sit, down, stay and recall command in a distracting and exciting environment.

  Games are involved to sharpen our dog’s response time and keep learning fun.

  Graduation consists of Agility games and prizes.

  Prerequisites for Intermediate Agility Class:

  • Dog must have completed an Intro to Agility class at Smartypaws or other training facility.
  • Dog should be comfortable on all equipment, be able to stay with handler off leash and have a good recall with distractions.
  • The dog will still be learning the weave poles and the teeter, and contacts will be at less than full height.

  NOVICE PREP
  This class starts to prepare the dog and handler team to compete in Novice level Agility trials. Handling exercises are used as well as short course sequences to teach the team the maneuvers they will need to negotiate a Novice type course in all venues. Full courses are run several times during the session to test the skills at full speed! Exercises become more challenging as the session progresses, but are always built upon skills already learned. Students are encouraged to train at a higher level than they are planning to compete.

  Graduation consists of Agility games and Prizes.

  Prerequisites for Novice Prep Agility Class:

  • Dog and handler will have completed at least one Intermediate class or have been evaluated in a private lesson.
  • Dog will be comfortable on full height contact equipment, including the teeter.
  • Dog and handler are able to do six straight weave poles.

• --> Agility Classes for Excellent Handlers in Competition

  ADVANCED AGILITY

  Advanced Handling will be presented to the dog and handler team. Handlers now learn to walk and navigate a course using their own plan according to their dogs running style. Course problem solving is a highlight at this level.

  Discriminations, independent weave poles, and independent contacts are skills we polish at this level.

  Graduation includes agility games to mimic ourselves under the pressure of a trial.

  Dog and handler will be invited into this class level based on experience shown in other classes or private evaluation.

  COMPETITION AGILITY - EXCELLENT LEVEL
  This class is for dog and handler teams who are competing at excellent level or equivalent.

  The focus is on handling skills on tricky or difficult course set-ups as found in trialing.

  Handlers learn the techniques that work best with their dog’s running style.

  Motivation, speed, consistency, and independent obstacle performance are key issues that are continuously evaluated. Exercises in this class are mentally challenging for both dog and handler. Problem solving for those competing is always part of this session.

  Prerequisites for Competition Agility Class:

  • Dog and Handler will have completed at least one Advanced agility class or have been evaluated in a private lesson.
  • Dog and handler will be invited into this class level based on experience shown in other classes or private evaluation.

• --> Fun 'n' Run Agility

  This is an intermediate level class that will be geared more towards those dogs and handlers that are not looking to compete, but enjoy getting out and spending time with friends and running agility.

  Dogs must have at least an Intro class to be ready for this class.

  The focus of this class will be flowing courses with a few handler challenges, but will not get into rules, or more technical handling moves. Think of it as a "Mommy and me" day out at Agility Class!

• --> Taste of Agility Class

  Come with your dog and see what all the fuss is about!! No big financial or time commitment, and NO HOMEWORK!! Your dog will be jumping, climbing and weaving on the first night!

  Meets for one hour weekly for two consecutive weeks. This class can be repeated as often as you like.

  No prerequisites, no aggressive dogs. Limited to 8 students.

• --> Get Ready for Agility Class

  FIRST NIGHT OF CLASS

  1. Dogs must have proof of current vaccinations. Please bring your shot records to the first night of class or mail them before class.
  2. Payment is due in full on the first night of class. All checks should be made out to SMARTY PAWS.
  3. These classes will be held outside, please dress comfortably.
  4. Water buckets and a small pool will be provided for the dogs. Please bring drinks for yourself.
  5. Please be sure your dog is in good health and fit for this training. If you or your dog has a special need, please let me know, i.e. recovering from injury, surgery, etc. for which we can lower jumps or do controlled exercises instead.

  WHAT TO BRING TO CLASS

  1. A buckle collar or quick release collar.
  2. A 4 or 6 inch tab lead. If you do not have one, I usually have these for sale at class.
  3. A 4 or 6 foot lead.
  4. Lots of your dogs favorite treats!!!
  5. A favorite training toy (ball, frisbee, squeaky, tug)
  6. A hungry dog. Please do not feed your dog at least four hours before class.
  7. Please carry a plastic bag with you for clean up. A scooper and bucket are on site, but we may need to get it out of someone’s way quick!

  NOT ALLOWED

  1. Aggressive dogs.
  2. Choke or pinch collars.
  3. Bitches in season. We can make these classes up if this happens.

  • Get Ready for Class at Smarty Paws Canine Coaching (.pdf 14K)

The goal of behavior modification is to teach the dog a better behavior to replace the undesirable behavior so families will love and enjoy their dogs for as many years as possible. Animal behaviorists like puppies to stay with their original owners, so they strive to correct problem behavior by giving each dog a better behavior to perform instead.

Owners with dogs that are in need of behavior modification will now have the resources to change their dogs' behavior from undesirable behaviors to pleasing behaviors with a structured program suited for their individual dog's needs. The first positive step an owner can take is to decide which behaviors they would like their dog to do rather than incessantly complain about the undesirable behaviors their dog is doing.

• --> Positive Reinforcement Behavior Modification Programs

  Mary Kay's philosophy regarding Behavior modification focuses on positive reinforcement. All behavior modification programs at SmartyPaws include the use of treats, toys and even clickers to motivate each dog to perform a desired behavior. Shock collars are never used at SmartyPaws. Appropriate training tools are used for each case -- from housetraining to fear aggression to chewing, etc.

  Because of Mary Kay's Veterinary Technician education with a focus in Behavior, she is able to work with your veterinarian in the instance that your dog's behavior problem is caused by an underlying medical problem. Her pursuit of required continuing education in this field keeps her current with the latest modification techniques as well as pharmacological advances currently used in the clinical veterinary behavior setting. She works closely with several local veterinarians, in a team effort, to develop protocols for those dogs that may benefit from medications along with their behavior modification.

  Each Behavior Modification program is based on the particular needs of the family and their dog. Written instructions are provided, to compliment what is taught in each session. Some tests by your veterinarian may be needed before beginning a program. Nutritional counseling is also provided, as diet is becoming more of an issue in some behavior problems. All information regarding a family's behavior modification is confidential and only to include the family Veterinarian as needed.

• --> Resource for Fabulous Behavior Information!

  At Smarty Paws Canine Coaching we are committed to helping you teach your dog what you would like them to know, while making training fun and enjoyable for both of you. We understand that the major reason pets are given up to animal shelters is because of behavior problems. Our training and behavior services help you address the concerns you have about your pet’s behavior so that you never make that trip to an animal shelter.

  It’s much more effective and easier for you to prevent behavior problems than it is to correct them. That’s why our puppy classes and basic training classes are so important. In addition to what you learn from us, feel confident in knowing that we trust the behavior information you’ll find at HelpingFido.com and HelpingKitty.com and we encourage you to follow through and purchase the behavior education products we recommend. We would like your dog - and your cat too - to be behaviorally healthy!

  As dog trainers, even though we don’t work with cat behavior, we know that many dog owners share their lives with cats as well. Behavior resources for cats are more difficult to come by, and we are thrilled to have found a source for effective, sensible and scientifically based information about cat behavior and problems at HelpingKitty.com. From litterbox problems to destructive behavior helping cats get along with each other and with family members, you’ll find the information you need.

  We welcome your feedback on these products and resources. Feel free to contact us and give us a report after you’ve viewed, listened to or read them.

  

Conformation Handling- a six week class designed to help you learn how to handle and present your dog to his full potential in the conformation ring.

• --> Conformation Handling

  a six week class designed to help you learn how to handle and present your dog to his full potential in the conformation ring.

• --> Conformation Show N Go's

  Smarty Paws is now offering conformation Show n Go's.

  We’ll have an hour when you can work on stacking and gaiting and have someone with conformation experience go over your dog and run you through patterns. For small dogs we’ll have a table for exams.

  With local shows coming up, now is a good time, whether you have an experienced dog you just would like a little brush up time with or a novice that needs exposure to new places and people.

What is Hydrotherapy?

Extensive work in human physiotherapy has demonstrated that a suitably monitored course of hydrotherapy acts by encouraging a full range of joint motion in reduced weight conditions improves muscle tone and promotes tendon repair without imposing undue stress on damaged tissues while improving cardiovascular stamina.

It has long been established that hydrotherapy is beneficial in a recovery program for certain injuries in the veterinary field. Until recently, its use in animals was restricted to performance horses and racing greyhounds.

This service is for all types of dogs — racing, working, show, pet — recovering from or wishing to prevent injuries and surgeries. Life vests are provided by and used by SmartyPaws.

SmartyPaws offers Hydrotherapy thru Nancy Brandt DVM of Natural Care Institute and may be referred by your own veterinarian as well.

For those patients who are not mobile, the pool is accessible by car. Therapy notes are provided and can be added to your dog’s medical records.

• --> Schedule Therapy

  Please have either you or your veterinarian email your request or call (702) 396-8501 to schedule a private therapy session.

Smarty Paws offers a variety of obedience services. Private lessons are available for Puppy Manners, Basic Obedience and Competition Obedience from Novice through Utility training for AKC and UKC trials.

Our classes are geared to helping you to create a dog you can live with. Training with your dog is a great way to bond and spend time with your dog. The time you put into your dog's education now will repay you with many hours of great companionship in the following years.

All obedience packages are discounted from regular private lesson prices. Group classes of these sessions may be added when time and cooler temperatures allow.

• --> Competition Obedience

  All levels of competition obedience training from Novice through Utility are offered at Smarty Paws for AKC and UKC trials.

  Training techniques involve the use of positive reinforcement to build confidence in the dog. All exercises are taught in small increments so that if something goes wrong, the handler has a level to go back to and start again.

  Handling is a major issue covered in lessons as well as rules for AKC and UKC. Written homework is available to take home and practice between lessons.

  Private lessons enable the dog/handler team to learn at a faster rate and to focus on problem solving for their own needs.

  Whether or not you plan to compete, a well-behaved dog is a joy for you and your friends to be around allowing the dog to be more involved in your activities.

• --> Pet Obedience

  KinderPuppy ~ for puppies up to six months ~

  This class gives the puppy the fundamentals to be a good companion at home as well as out in public, at the groomers, or veterinarian.

  Puppies learn basic commands such as sit, down, come and stay. Exercises learned include walking on a leash, puppy retrieves, stand for exam, petting by strangers and recall games.

  Discussion in this session include: housetraining, chewing, bite inhibition, handling, correct use of toys, crate training, jumping, digging, socializing, and individual issues of the puppy and his family.

  You will have written homework of items covered in each weekly session.

  • A training manual is included in your class tuition.
  • Puppies must have at least two sets of puppy vaccinations or titers for classes or lessons at SmartyPaws.
     

  Basic Obedience Series ~ for dogs six months and older ~

  This class offers education for the older dog, who can now focus for longer periods of time and who also may be showing some adolescent tendencies that need to be addressed. Some behaviors just aren’t cute when Fluffy gets to 50 lbs!!!

  Dogs will learn sit, down, stay, come and stand with distractions and off leash. Walking on a leash without pulling, about turns, automatic sits when you stop - are also taught. Distance is added to all stays and recalls.

  Discussion includes socializing, spay/neuter, jumping, destructiveness, handling, feeding, etc. as well as individual problem areas.

  This class will also include exercises to prepare your dog for AKC's canine Good Citizens test. Testing may be arranged and performed at SmartyPaws.

  You will have written homework of items covered in each weekly session.

  • A training manual is included in your class tuition.
  • Puppies and dogs must have proof of current vaccinations or titers for classes or lessons at SmartyPaws.
     

  Rally Obedience

  AKC Rally is the new dog sport that is taking the nation by storm, a successful stepping stone from the AKC Canine Good Citizen® program to the world of obedience or agility. Rally offers both the dogs and handlers an experience that is fun and upbeat. The canine team moves at their own pace, very similar to rally-style auto racing. Rally was designed with the traditional pet owner in mind, but it can still be very challenging for those who enjoy higher levels of competition.

  A rally course includes 10 to 20 stations, depending on the level. Scoring is not as rigorous as traditional obedience. Communication between handler and dog is encouraged and perfect heel position is not required, it is all about teamwork! The main objective of rally is to produce dogs that have been trained to behave in the home, in public places, and in the presence of other dogs, and to develop a working relationship with dog and handler.

• --> Clicker Tricks

  “Clicking With Your Dog” Classes

  Clicker Training is a simple fun way to tell your dog what you want. It is a proven way to communicate with your dog using positive reinforcement.In this 6 week class you will learn how to use a clicker effectively to train your dog. Each week you will learn one or two new behaviors: whether it be sitting politely at the door when guests come to visit, or teaching your dog to roll over.

  Some of the methods that you will be learning is “Shaping Behavior” and “Capturing” your dog’s behaviors.

  You will receive weekly training tips and handouts to help you work with your dog in your home as well as in class.

• --> Summer Dog Training: Just For Kids and Their Dogs

  Build confidence in your child and a well behaved family dog. This is an educational and fun class for the kids. The last class will include dog games and a party that kids and dogs will love.

  • The sessions will be six weeks, meeting twice weekly.
  • Educational activities for the kids, including dog safety and responsible dog  ownership.
  • Basic training for dogs such as sit, down, stay, come, walk on a leash nicely.
  • Tricks that kids can teach their dogs.
  • Children should be 10 yrs. of age or speak with a trainer before enrolling.
  • The class size is very limited to 5 children per session.
  • Two sessions offered during the summer months
• --> Canine Good Citizen

  MaryKay is an AKC CGC Evaluator and offers the CGC test 2-3 times a year. Click here to register and sign up for the next CGC Test.

  AKC's Canine Good Citizen® (CGC) Program Sponsored by K9 Advantix® - what is it? Started in 1989, CGC is a certification program that is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. The Canine Good Citizen Program is a two-part program that stresses responsible pet ownership for owners and basic good manners for dogs. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test may receive a certificate from the American Kennel Club.

  Many dog owners choose Canine Good Citizen training as the first step in training their dogs. The Canine Good Citizen Program lays the foundation for other AKC activities such as obedience, agility, tracking, and performance events. As you work with your dog to teach the CGC skills, you'll discover the many benefits and joys of training your dog. Training will enhance the bond between you and your dog. Dogs who have a solid obedience education are a joy to live with-they respond well to household routines, have good manners in the presence of people and other dogs, and they fully enjoy the company of the owner who took the time to provide training, intellectual stimulation, and a high quality life. We sincerely hope that CGC will be only a beginning for you and your dog and that after passing the CGC test, you'll continue training in obedience, agility, tracking, or performance events.