Parkland Kennels

Training

DOG OBEDIENCE TRAINING CLASSES IN STONY PLAIN, SERVICING EDMONTON,

ST ALBERT, SPRUCE GROVE AND AREA.


At Parkland Kennels, we have a professional team of trainers responsible for dog training classes and dog obedience training in Edmonton. Our team and our students proudly and successfully compete at all levels in the Canadian Kennel Club, United Kennel Club.


Before we built our boarding facilities, we bred purebred registered Labrador Retrievers and trained and trialed our own dogs in CKC obedience and hunt tests for a number of years .


Whether you own a highly pedigreed purebred dog or a lovable multi-breed, all dogs are treated to the same high-quality training.


At Parkland Kennels, we stand behind our training programs 100% – take it from our clients.


Come visit us and take a look around our 3200 sq. ft. indoor training facility.

OUR TRAINERS

Our full time instructor Audrey has 24 years experience of dog training at Parkland Kennels. She enjoys the hands-on training with the monthly boarders, giving private lessons as well as helping our students and their dogs. She currently trains and enjoys the competitive obedience ring and play in agility. She loves her well-mannered dogs that walk for miles with her. Her dogs are family first and athletes second.

Caraley

Our second full time instructor Caraley has over 13 years experience training and trialing her Belgian Malinois Scarlett in many dog sports including Competitive obedience, Agility and French Ring Sport and she has begun her next training journey with her newest addition Dangle. She has been instructing classes at Parkland Kennels for over 12 years and enjoys seeing those ah ha moments when a student and their four legged partners come together. She is a firm believer in balance both in training and in life, "you should train hard but play harder and always with good sportsmanship".

Traci

Traci is one of our part time instructors. She has been training her dogs at Parkland Kennels since 1998 and has successfully put 8 of her dogs through the Parkland Kennels program. "I have always loved the bond you make with your dog while training and am very excited to be a part of the Parkland Kennels team. I have learned so much in the year I have been helping teach the level 1 classes."  It's very common for people to comment on how well behaved her dogs are and she always replies, "it takes love, time, consistency and patience to have a well mannered dog." She is currently training and trialing her 2 black labs Sully and Arlo in CKC obedience.

EDMONTON'S FIRST-CLASS OBEDIENCE TRAINING


Group dog obedience training classes in Stony Plain are offered year round (weekends, weekdays, and evenings). Dogs are trained indoors (3200 sq. ft. heated, training arena) and outdoors, weather permitting.

EACH LEVEL OF OBEDIENCE IS 6 WEEKS LONG

You attend one class a week - each class is approximately 1 hour long. We encourage partners to both attend the training classes and share the homework – after all, your dog has to listen to both of you.

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Level 1

Level 1 is to get the untrained dog to focus on the handler with other dogs and people around. Dogs beginning Level 1 training must be four months of age or older and be fully vaccinated. All training in Level 1 is on lead so that when you give a command, your dog has no choice but to obey.


In level 1 we teach your dog how to:


  • Heel appropriately on a loose leash 
  • Sit/stay 
  • Down/stay
  • Come when called
  • Stand for examination
  • Finish to the heel position
  • Leave it
  • Wait at the door
  • On your bed


We do not use treats to bribe the dog to obey, but instead, you are the treat. We do not use artificial stimulation to correct or praise the dog – we teach you the proper footwork, tones of voice to use and to correct your dog with the use of your leash  and training collar.

Level 2

Level 2 is to practice and perfect the exercises learned in level 1, at an advanced level, and to condition the dog to obey and listen off-lead. In addition to this, we introduce control exercises such as a take and hold exercise and a high jump exercise, and prepare dogs and handlers going into CKC or UKC Companion Dog obedience trials. This is an excellent training course designed for competitive and non-competitive dogs.

Test

You receive written homework sheets at the end of each class to help you plan your homework sessions. In the last class, you and your dog are tested – we don’t just give diplomas for attendance. If, in level 1, you and/or your dog are having a “bad hair day”  we have you return for a re-test. If on the re-test you and/or your dog are not up to the standards set for these levels, you are invited back to repeat the entire session again at no extra charge. This will be dependent on you attending all classes and completing your homework.

Level 3

Level 3 is designed for owners who want to train their dogs for Companion Dog Excellent (CDX) obedience trials (CKC and UKC). However, we have had many owners who have no desire to compete with their dogs in obedience trials continue to this level. We have also in the past custom designed a training program, at this level, for owners with special needs. 

Classes are normally 1 hour in length. There are no written homework sheets handed out at this level as we expect the owners/handlers to be better equipped to remember what was covered in class. Because of the complexity of training for CDX, we divided Level 3 into two six-week training sessions.

Level 3

LEVEL 3 SESSION 1

Level 3 Session 1 is to introduce and teach the dog the principles of each exercise which includes:

  • Perfect heeling off lead
  • Figure 8 off lead
  • Drop on recall
  • Flat retrieve
  • High jump retrieve
  • Broad jump 
  • Longer out-of-sight sit/stays and down/stays 
LEVEL 3 SESSION 2

Level 3 Session 2 is to perfect the exercises with both the dog and handler(s).

AGILITY TRAINING


Agility is an obstacle course comprised of jumps, tunnels, dogwalk, teeter-totter, weave poles, A-Frame  and tire. Dogs are taught how to safely maneuver through the obstacle course and to learn the names of the apparatus and what they are expected to do on each one. It is one of the fastest growing dog sports in Canada and the USA. Owners and dogs love the fast paced and demanding physical workout required to succeed in this sport. Even if you do not have “Super Dog” aspirations, this course will help your dog gain confidence and build trust between you and your pet.


Our instructor, Joan King, has competed in agility for many years and has a real love for all dogs big or small. Each article is taught to the dog in a format designed to not scare or frighten them by being too big of a challenge.


Dogs must be over 1 year of age (for health/structure reasons) and have completed two levels of formal obedience training. We offer different levels of agility training!

FOR THE OWNERS AND HANDLERS


After each 1-month stay, you are expected to attend 2 private lessons (the first one to be held the day you pick the dog up) so that you can learn the techniques that are being used in order to work with your dog under the trainer’s guidance and at home. It is vital that you spend this time with the trainer and your dog in order to be successful once you get home.

Sometimes you may expect far too much from your dog (and the training that was done) after only 1 month of training.

It is only through time and practice that you accomplish each level of training.


BOARDING AND TRAINING PROGRAM SERVICING EDMONTON AND SURROUNDING AREAS.


If you do not have the time to attend weekly classes, or are located too far away, we offer a boarding and training program for obedience. Each level is accomplished during a 4 week stay with alternate 1 to 2 months of at-home practice time with the owner before continuing on to the next level. Success at each level depends largely upon the owner’s ability to be consistent with the training that was shown in the private lessons at the end of the dogs stay. Practice and consistency brings success.


Some breeds/temperaments are easier and more compliant to work with than others. If the dog has already learned/cultivated bad behavior(s), it will take the trainer even longer to alter that behavior.

DOG TRAINING CONSULTATIONS


If you’re not sure what kind of dog would suit your family or want to learn more about the different breeds and what their temperaments are like, you can book a consultation with one of our professional trainers.


We will go through the traits and genetic tendencies of breeds of dogs (including mixed breeds) and answer questions you may have so that you make the right choice the first time around!


Our professional staff is ready to answer any and all questions you may have about dogs, dog training, and dog management.

WHEN AND WHERE TO TRAIN AT HOME

Listed below are the things to keep in mind while training your dog:

  • Set aside specific times to train your dog
  • In the beginning choose a quiet area to work with your dog so that you can be the center of attention.
  • Don’t train your dog directly after feeding
  • Use the training techniques you are learning in class
  • Two short training sessions are better than one long one
  • Never give your dog a formal command that you cannot enforce
  • Taking your dog for a walk is not the same thing as doing your training homework

Dogs learn by repetition. In order to be successful, you have to practice with your dog 5 days a week – 15 to 20 minutes each session. The classes will teach you what and how to train your dog at home, as well as provide many distractions so your dog learns to obey you no matter what is happening around him/her.

WHEN AND WHERE TO TRAIN AT HOME

Listed below are the things to keep in mind while training your dog:

  • Set aside specific times to train your dog
  • Choose a quiet area to work with your dog so that you can be the center of attention.
  • Don’t train your dog directly after feeding
  • Use the training techniques you are learning in class
  • Two short training sessions are better than one long one
  • Never give your dog a formal command that you cannot enforce
  • Taking your dog for a walk is not the same thing as doing your training homework

Dogs learn by repetition. In order to be successful, you have to practice with your dog 5 days a week – 15 to 20 minutes each session. The classes will teach you what and how to train your dog at home, as well as provide many distractions so your dog learns to obey you no matter what is happening around him/her.

SAFETY RULES

Many dogs react unfavorably to alcohol and some medications. Therefore, no one is permitted to train in class if there is evidence of using alcohol.

BOOKS AND ADVICE

Well-meaning friends can give you the wrong advice about training. Because we are working with you and your dog, please use the techniques and procedures you have been shown in class. If you have any difficulty, please call us right away.

ATTENDANCE IN CLASS

To get the most from our program, class attendance is very important. If you must miss your regular class, please try to attend one of the other classes at your level during that week. If this is impossible, for a nominal fee of $20.00, we will do a makeup class with you. Bitches in season/heat are allowed into class.

STARTING TIME

All classes begin promptly. We would appreciate you arriving approximately 10 minutes prior to each class so you can warm your dog up before the formal class begins. Our classes run from 1 to 1.5 hours.

EXERCISE AND FEEDING

Be sure to exercise or air your dog before class. If an accident occurs, you will be given the tools to clean it up. Do not train your dog until at least 1 hour after feeding. This applies to your classes as well. You may give them a treat before training so he/she is not working on an empty stomach.

CLOTHING

As our classes are held indoors and outdoors (weather permitting), please dress accordingly. Please ensure you have proper footwear, no high heels or open backed sandals.

WHO SHOULD TRAIN 

We allow up to 2 adults per dog to participate in the classes. Each person can work half the class.

Only in special circumstances do we allow students to attempt training who are under the age of 15 years. If you have any questions on this, please call us. This is due to the fact that children and even some teenagers do not have the self-discipline, initiative, and in some cases, the strength to train a dog.

EQUIPMENT

You will require a training collar and a 6-foot nylon or leather leash. Chain, bungee and retractable leashes are not allowed. If you’re not sure of the proper training collar your dog will require, please note that we have an excellent variety of training collars and leashes (at a reasonable price) for you to choose from with our guidance. Your equipment will be checked at the beginning of each class to ensure it is on the dog correctly and is not faulty or too small or large for the dog.

SPECTATORS

Visitors are welcome but must remain seated during class. Children must be well behaved and capable of sitting on the seating provided. They will not be allowed to play outside or remain in cars, as we cannot provide the necessary supervision to ensure they don’t get injured or become a nuisance to fellow students or to our guests in our boarding facility. Children must be accompanied by an adult when going to the washrooms. When classes are held outdoors, children will have to sit  on the grass. We always welcome spectators and we hope you will tell your friends and relatives about our classes.

CANCELLATIONS DUE TO WEATHER


In case of inclement weather that will affect driving conditions, you will be notified prior to class if we feel your classes should be cancelled. We will add an additional week to the end of your session, if we have to cancel due to weather/road conditions. 

PARKLAND KENNELS REFUND POLICY

A full refund will be issued if you call and cancel your class 5 days prior to the start of your class. If you cancel after the 5 days prior to start date, you will not be refunded the tuition. If you attend the first class and decide for whatever reason you do not wish to continue, you will be refunded half the tuition. You must let trainers know, before you leave the building or no half refund will be offered. 


Please advise us of this decision immediately after the first class.

GENERAL PRACTICES


  • Please discard your garbage appropriately in the garbage cans located at the front door.
  • Smokers are requested to be cautious with discarded matches and butts. Place them in a container and take them home.
  • Arrive 10 – 15 min early to “air” your dog. Keep them on a leash.
  • Be respectful of and careful with indigenous wildlife. Coyotes are present at times; loons, nesting geese, and beavers can cause injury and even death to your dog. 

If you’re interested in learning more, or have additional questions about dog training classes and obedience classes, give us a call today! Our experienced staff will be happy to help.

Testimonials

  • VERY GOOD TRAINING


    “Their training is very good. I put my dog in their first set of classes and they've blown me away. My dog is so different now. So much more well behaved.”


    - Kimberlee Y.

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  • FANTASTIC PEOPLE


    “A great group of trainers that really care about the well-being of both dog and owner. They are all fantastic people and are extremely helpful with any questions or concerns that you have. I'm looking forward to completing more training with them, as they make it really fun and enjoyable.”


    - Adrian and Michelle T.

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  • FRIENDLY, KNOWLEDGEABLE AND EASY STAFF


    “My dog and I have enjoyed coming to Parkland Kennels to do obedience training. The staff is very friendly, knowledgeable and easy to work with. I recommend Parkland Kennels to anyone who wants to bond more with their dog and work on obedience training.”


    - Clayton W.

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TRAINING SCHEDULE


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