First, Do No Harm
Est. 2009 | 250-929-1400 | Join Us On Facebook
Image Heading
Pet Manners Classes

Pet Manners classes are for non-reactive dogs over 4 months of age who need training in basic manners. There is no maximum age.

Pet Manners is a linear course of 10 classes, usually twice a week for five weeks.

Classes are kept small and personal, with a maximum of 4 handlers and their dogs in each class.

Curriculum

You will learn how to teach your dog the following behaviours:  

  1. Paying attention to handler, practised with distractions
  2. Emergency Recall, practised with outdoor distractions
  3. Come When Called, practised with outdoor distractions and distance
  4. Loose Leash Walking, practised outdoors with distractions
  5. Sit and remain sitting while handler talks to a friend
  6. Lie down and stay
  7. Wait at the door/gate, with distractions on the other side

This curriculum is based on a curriculum developed by the Karen Pryor Academy.

CLICK HERE for a list of upcoming classes

To register, CLICK HERE.

Training sheets

Trainings sheets with step-by-step instructions for all the behaviours are included in your course. 

CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF WHAT TO BRING TO CLASS

Homework

You WILL need to practice at home in between classes. THE GOOD NEWS is that, because of the positive training methods that we use, most students only need to practice on average 10-20 minutes effective training time each day!

So long as you do your homework, and your dog does not have any fear or aggression issues, you should be able to graduate with a happy and obedient dog that you will be proud to take out in public. You will also have gained a basic understanding of how to continue to teach your dog most basic skills and tricks.

 

Loved it? Want to learn even more?

When you graduate, ask us about Advanced Manners or Canine Good neighbour, weekly classes for graduates of our Pet Manners or Foundation course. 

 

For more information, contact us at [email protected] or call 250-732-5415.

WELCOME TO CLASS!

What's New?
What Clients Are Saying:

My little dog, Tilly and I have completed our Foundations course and I would be remiss if I did not express how wonderful the experience has been. I was so impressed with the organization of the programme and Lisbeth’s knowledgeable and friendly staff. I particularly liked the fact that you could book class times online when they suited you. I adopted Tilly at 5 months and knew that she had had very little socialization and training. For consistency I chose to stay with one instructor, Paula. One can tell that she is very passionate and knowledgeable about her job. I found Paula to be excellent at demonstrating and explaining the tasks at hand and she showed patience and understanding with me as Tilly and I learned together. It also helped that Paula had a good sense of humour and gave us positive feedback and praise when it was often needed. Sadly, there were no “treats” for owners but I would take another course with Cowichan Canine in a heartbeat!

Deb Tustin
Cowichan Bay

My Mom was very impressed with the change in Finn and reminded me of a walk we took last March where he was explosive at everyone we met along the way.

Robyn Dallaway
Reactive Dog Programme student, Cobble Hill, BC

See more...

©2026 Cowichan Canine Behaviour & Training Ltd. All rights reserved.
Group Classes, Private or Semi-private in-home training Lessons and confidential
Behaviour Consultations in the Cowichan Valley area, on southern Vancouver Island, servicing Chemainus, Cobble Hill, Cowichan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Duncan, Glenora, Ladysmith, Lake Cowichan, Malahat, Maple Bay, Mill Bay, Saltair, Saltspring Island, Shawnigan Lake, Vancouver Island and Youbou.
Palm Tree Creative