
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:
- Paying attention to handler, practised with distractions
- Emergency Recall, practised with outdoor distractions
- Come When Called, practised with outdoor distractions and distance
- Loose Leash Walking, practised outdoors with distractions
- Sit and remain sitting while handler talks to a friend
- Lie down and stay
- 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!

I had the good fortune and pleasure to take the Foundation Program at Cowichan K9 this winter
with my lab cross puppy Cody. Cody just turned 8 months when we graduated with distinction from this awesome training experience. Bev, Karen, and Glenda were terrific and facilitated our learning with clear instruction, helpful tips, and much kindness and caring.
I've worked with dogs all my life and was amazed at how much I learned participating in this program and now Cody and I get to benefit daily from our indelible experience with you. Training with such positive reinforcement, small class size, and expert facilitation enhanced our relationship beyond measure and will continue to do so now that we have the tools and understanding.
Cody travels on rounds with me and is continually being complimented on his fine manners and keen willingness to please. I am so proud of him! Attending our classes at Cowichan Canine was the highlight of each week and will continue to be as we begin agility classes and scent games.
I can't thank you enough for how your program has enriched our relationship and daily life together.
I recommend all my clients take their dogs to Cowichan Canine. Every one can benefit!
p.s. Your Christmas party was the highlight of the season, hands down! Class act: so many happy, well behaved dogs and their people, games and prizes, Santa and presents, incredibly delicious appies and meatballs galore for all. That was the best Christmas function I've ever attended!
Thank you again -
Dr Brenda Bernhardt
Cowichan Veterinary HouseCall Services
Our little Frenchton, Blaze, graduated from the Foundations class today with Honours. The training we received was top notch, excellent quality, and fun. We appreciated the often humorous comments thrown into our training from Karen and Stephanie, as well as the clear, easy to understand aspects of this training program. We have already introduced Blaze to Scent Detection and Agility and will continue on with these in the fall. We truly appreciate the care and commitment our instructors gave in the training of our Blaze, and of ourselves! Who knew we had so much to learn, too! :) Thank you, Karen and Stephanie! We will definitely be referring others to Cowichan Canine.
Linda Batten (& Matt)
Duncan