• 2.1: Mission
• 2.2Daily Routine
• 2.3: The Playground
• 2.4: Support & Guidance
• 2.5: Homework

Daily Routine

The early morning hours are traditionally the most busy hours of the day for the pups. They have the most energy at this time of day, and they run around the playground, chase each other, dig wildly in the sandbox and take every toy out for close inspection and play! During this time, careful supervision is important so that pups learn to socialize safely. Shy pups are assisted in integrating with the pack slowly and gently. Exuberant, confident pups are monitored for appropriate social play. Around 11 a.m., the pack is well- adjusted and calm, favorite playmates have been sorted out and the pups start to tire. Many will lie on dog beds and wrestle; others will settle in with a Nylabone for a nice gnaw session. I am constantly walking the yard, encouraging the more timid dogs to explore the yard as they feel more relaxed.

During the school day, the pups are fed Timberwolf Organics “Southwest Chicken” formula dog kibble. This is a highly nutritious food and most pups, even those with food sensitivities, do really well on it. The food brand is available at Planet Dog, Pet Quarters, The Kennel Shops and Port Grooming (just a few doors down from our school!). I do not serve “treats” as these tend to contain chemicals, flavorings and calories that do not enhance the health of growing pups. I do serve apple chunks and baby carrots as extra snacks! The pups are fed a “snack” of kibble every 2 hours while at school. I call it a “treat scramble” as the kibble is tossed in handfuls onto the stone patio or floor of the school room and the pups scramble to munch their share of kibble. Serving snacks in this way teaches the pups to respect each other’s space and work cooperatively as a pack. Food aggression, if it occurs, is worked through with the intent that each pup will learn to stay calm and share cooperatively.

Pups practice basic manners throughout the day, such as "sit, wait, quiet, off, settle down" and other key behaviors. When parents drop off or pick up their pup, the pack in the play yard or school room is expected to rehearse good behavior and the visitors help with this training by ignoring any pup who puts paws up on the gates or barks. In wet or cold weather, the pack spends more time indoors in the school room, where there is space to romp, rest and play! By the end of the day, the pups are mellow and restful as parents arrive to take them home.

I look forward to having your pup become a pack member in our program! Feel free to call or e-mail with any questions!