Class Etiquette

MEMBERS GUIDE ABC OF CLASS ETIQUETTE

Observe your dog as it enters the hall.
Look at the body language your dog displays. watch ears, head and tail positions
Observe periodically, other dogs around you. what is there body language telling you?
Energy level - is your dog excited, anxious, quiet etc?
What energy are the dog around you displaying? Overly excited and/or anxious dogs can be unsettling to some dogs.
Dogs watching 'eyeballing' dogs - this type of behaviour can be taken as a direct challenge form a dog. Do not allow 'eyeballing'. Turn dogs away from each other if this occurs

'Playtime' - 'play time sessions are, actively encouraged in the 'Puppy Class' as part of their socialisation and development
Puppy Plus, Pre Beginners, and Novice classes.....handlers please encourage your dogs to sit or lie calmly whilst you are waiting to work your dog
Food - most if not all handlers usually have a pocket full of food.....Dogs understandably can be protective of 'their' treats so please be carful when treating your dog very close to another.
Distracting - To avoid unwanted behaviour escalating always be prepared to distract your dog eg. if you hear your dog give a warning grumble, or your dog is 'eyeballing' or dominant behaviour is displayed towards another dog (or even handler) DO NOT use treats as a distraction for these behaviours as you will be rewarding the dog!
Discipline - be sure to discipline your dog immediately and effectively for unacceptable behaviour. this does not mean 'cruelty'.

Noise - Instructors would respectfully request that members please keep noise levels to a minimum whilst waiting to work.
Waiting - where possible would members please use the seats provided in class, whilst waiting to word. whilst seated please ensure that dogs are kept on a shorter lead length and close to handler.
Space - please allow clear access onto the floor in which handlers and dogs can pass with minimal disruption to others.