The Naperville Area Humane Society uses reward-based, positive reinforcement training methods based on an understanding of how animals learn. Below are the classes we are currently offering.
Puppy 101 classes
Start your puppy off on the right paw! Puppy 101 is for puppies up to 5 months of age. Each week features a particular topic, as well as integrates appropriate, monitored puppy socializing.
5-Week Course - Please sign up 24 hours in advance. Classes begins at 5:30pm sharp, please arrive early. / Only 4 spots available.
Spring Session 2 - Mondays, April 15, 22, 29, May 6, 13 - Full Summer Session1 - TBA
Cost: $160.00 for a 5-Week Course / Each class is 50-minutes long. (pre-registration is required)
Course Description: Each 50-minute class focuses on a specific topic each week, and if time allows, some appropriate puppy play. What to bring to classes: Blanket or mat, lots of treats, a clicker, 6ft leash, collar and/or harness. Limited to 2 people per dog (children under the age of 10 are not allowed at this time). Absolutely no retractable leashes, prong collars, or choke chains allowed.
For more information about taking Puppy 101 please contact Ashley Olson, at aolson@naperhumane.org or 630-420-8989 x1009
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Prep course
Do you want to have fun training with your dog while earning an AKC title by passing the Canine Good Citizen Test? The CGC Prep-Course is the first step in having your dog become a therapy dog and it is also a great introduction to other dog sports and activities. Regardless, if you decide to test for the CGC or not, at the end of this class these skills will give you the power to feel comfortable bringing your dog into public places such as the vet office, dog friendly stores and regular walks.
4-Week Course - Please sign up 24 hours in advance. Dates: Thursdays, April 4, 11, 18, 25 Classes begin at 6:30pm - In Session Cost: $140.00 4-Week Course / Each class is 50-minutes long. (pre-registration is required)
This is a 4-week prep course to help prepare the dog (6mo or older) and handler to take their Canine Good Citizen Test. Within the 4 week course, the handler and their dog will be provided guidance on how to successfully pass the test. Each class will be held for 50 mins. Dogs that are in this course, should have a basic manners foundation. This is not a course for the novice dog and this is not a class for dogs with behavioral issues such as reactivity or separation anxiety.
For more information about taking the Canine Good Citizen Prep Course, please contact us via email at bcerrillos@naperhumane.org or aolson@naperhumane.org.
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) TEST
Available Dates: Session 1: Saturday, May 4 at 10am - 3 spots available Session 2: Saturday, May 4 at 11am - 3 spots available
Cost: $50
The AKC Canine Good Citizen™ (CGC) program provides a perfect framework for training your dog to become a polite member of society. CGC is open to all dogs–purebred and mixed breed. There are no age minimums or limits for participating in the Canine Good Citizen program, because yes, you can always teach an old dog new tricks! The 10 test items on the CGC test are practical, functional behaviors that every dog should have to be welcomed in the community.
1. Accepting a friendly stranger 6. Sit and down on cue and stay in place
2. Sitting politely for petting 7. Coming when called
3. Appearance and grooming 8. Reaction to another dog
4. Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead 9. Reaction to distraction
5. Walking through a crowd 10. Supervised separation
For more information about taking the AKC Canine Good Citizen test, please contact us via email at bcerrillos@naperhumane.org or aolson@naperhumane.org.