Dog Training

The Humane Society of Southwest Missouri offers two dog training classes: a basic training class and trick training class! Info that applies to both training courses is below. If you would like to see more about a specific class, click on a button above!

CLASS RULES:
Come prepared to have fun and bond with your dog!
Also, please be courteous of the following Classroom Rules:
1. Please be courteous of your classmates and instructor and be on time. Arriving 15 minutes before class is recommended. This gives your dog time to get settled in and to relieve themselves before class.
2. Please ask before you pet or let your dog meet any other dogs in class. If there is time we can do some socialization, but even though your dog is friendly others may not be and that's what they are here to work on.
3. All puppies must be 5 months of age and had their 3rd round of vaccinations prior to class.
4. Don't feed your dog before class. A hungry dog is more motivated to learn.
5. Before the first class you must show proof of the following vaccines:

DHPP - MUST BE ADMINISTERED BY A VETERINARIAN, NOT AN OWNER and given at 16 weeks of age or older. If the dog received vaccines as a puppy and again at 1 year of age then it can be administered every 3 years. If it received the first DHPP as an adult it must have received one a year later, and then every 3 years.
Rabies vaccine- valid if given after 12 weeks of age in a puppy. If received as a puppy then again at 1 year of age it can be administered every 2 years if labeled as a 2 or 3 year rabies. If the first rabies was given as an adult it must have received one a year later, and then every 2 years.
Bordetella vaccine- due every year

6. Wear comfortable clothing and nonskid shoes. Flip flops, sandals and heels are not recommended.
7. Please silence all cell phones during class.
8. Please come prepared to class with your supplies or be prepared to purchase supplies from the Humane Society's Retail selection at a 15% off student discount available on the first night of class only!
9. Use positive reinforcement with your dog, keep a positive attitude during the class!
10. Have fun & get to know your dog!

Please provide proof that your dog is up to date on the following:

Flea/Tick Prevention
Rabies Vaccination
Bordetella
DHPP

Can I bring my family to training class?
Families are encouraged to join their dog in training class. Please feel free to bring your spouse or older kids, however space is limited. We want to equip everyone in the home with the right tools you need to train your dog.
If I have to miss a class, will I be able to reschedule?
If you have to miss a class, please let the instructor know prior to class and we will plan a time to make up the material you missed.
If my dog is in heat can I still come to class?
If your dog is in heat or sick please don't bring them to class.
My dog has reactivity issues to people and/or other dogs. Can I enroll in this class?
Dogs with reactivity issues to people or other dogs are welcome. You will need to inform the instructor of your dogs issues before the first night of class so we can make proper arrangements .
Where can I register for the class?
You can submit a registration request online (see the form to the left). If you have any questions, you can give us a call at 417-833-2526.

Supplies needed for class:
All currently enrolled students can purchase supplies at the Humane Society & receive 15% off on the first night of class!
Leash: A five-foot or six-foot leash (no retractable or chain leashes).
Collar/Harness: Martingale collar, buckle collar, or training harness.
Treat carrier: A bag, pouch, fanny pack, apron with pocket or deep pocket that provides easy access to treats.
Treats: Lots of small, easy-to-chew, high-value treats. Cut up pieces of cheese or hot dogs are good choices, as are soft treats made specifically for training. (Experiment in advance to discover what your puppy really loves.)
Bed, mat or rug: Soft surface your puppy can learn to lie down on.
Chew toy or stuffed Kong: Toys will be used as rewards and during down times.
Poo Bags: Be kind and clean up after your pet, please.
Dog identification tags: If you come with a dog, let's make sure you go home with a dog... or two! (We do have dogs here for adoption, you know!)