Little Paws

As the science in canine behaviour, ethology and neuroscience continue to advance, we come to understand our canine companions better. Thus, allowing us to formulate better ways to connect with them. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or not, our puppy class curriculums are always evolving, ensuring you have the latest knowledge on canine behaviour.

This is a great class for teaching your pup what they need to know, along with socialising them with new dogs, people and things within a controlled environment. With adequate socialisation during their sensitive period, you will be able to prevent most behaviour problems that could arise or worsen in the future. You will also learn how to work with your pup and understand their little quirks better, which helps to build the bond between you two in a rewarding and fun way.

Read more about the importance of puppy classes here.

Socialisation
The first three months are the period when sociability outweighs fear. Participation in well-run classes helps minimise potential problems such as fearfulness towards strangers, other dogs and anxiety. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behaviour (AVSAB) released a position paper outlining the importance of early puppy socialisation, preferably before the puppy reaches 12 to 16 weeks old.

Impulse control
Impulse control is also known as emotional self-control. As dogs tend to do what works best for them in the moment, domestic dogs need to learn some level of patience and restraint to live well in a family setting. A patient dog generally behaves better and is less demanding. They will also feel more in control, thus calmer, because they know what to do to get what they want instead of wrestling for control against you.

Being happy when alone
Although dogs are social creatures, it is important for them to learn how to be alone. This helps to build their confidence and composure when you’re not around, which reduces their overall stress level. You will also be able to trust them when you’re not around, and in turn, increase the bond in your relationship with them.

Mouthing & jumping up
Mouthing and jumping are common behaviours dogs display when playing with their friends. So, they employ such techniques when trying to get your attention. In general, mouthing is a behaviour dogs use to explore the world, so it’s important to properly socialise them to teach them bite inhibition. Jumping, on the other hand, is a behaviour that should not be encouraged, as it can be dangerous when your dog does not learn how to greet young children or older people in a calm manner.

Enjoying vet visits & grooming
Vet visits and grooming sessions are the most common forms of handling your dog should be comfortable with. By handling their sensitive areas (such as their mouth, paws and ears to name a few) at a young age, your dog will learn that such touches are not harmful.

House training
Teaching your dog where to potty is one of the most important lessons, whether it be indoors or outdoors. Each dog learns at their own pace, and with enough patience, consistency and persistence, they will eventually get the hang of it.

The Little Paws group class is designed to facilitate socialisation, address normal puppy behaviours and prevent the development of potential behaviour problems.

It is not designed for puppies with existing behaviour issues such as excessive barking, over excitement, aggression anxiety, extreme fear or other issues that is beyond the normal puppy behaviour. Should there be any existing behaviour issues, please take a look at the classes offered for Behaviour Modification!