AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy

This class is designed for puppies up to one year of age. Whether your puppy is brand new to training or needs a stronger foundation, the course is tailored to help both puppies and their owners learn together.

This class focuses on teaching you how to communicate with your puppy—not just how to get them to perform behaviors in class. You’ll learn training mechanics, timing, engagement, leash communication, confidence-building, and how to continue making progress at home. The goal is lasting results, not simply completing weekly exercises.

Yes—but thoughtfully. Socialization isn’t just puppy playtime. We focus on creating positive experiences with new people, environments, sounds, and other dogs while teaching puppies to remain calm, engaged, and confident

Not during class. The emphasis is on learning to work around other dogs without becoming overstimulated. This helps puppies develop neutrality, focus, and confidence that transfers into everyday life.

Topics include:

• Marker words and communication
• Engagement and attention
• Leash skills
• Sit, down, stay, and recall
• Confidence-building exercises
• Appropriate greetings
• Handling and cooperative care
• Impulse control
• Real-world manners
• Problem-solving common puppy behaviors

No. The class is designed for first-time puppy owners as well as experienced handlers looking for a solid foundation.

Because each session builds on the previous one, attending every class is encouraged. If you need to miss a class, training notes and homework will help you stay on track, but make-up classes are not guaranteed.

Yes. Progress happens between classes. Each week you’ll receive exercises to practice at home so your puppy continues improving throughout the course.

Learning in a training building is only the first step. One class is held in a pet-friendly public environment so you can practice skills around everyday distractions with professional guidance.

Puppies that meet the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy requirements during the final evaluation are eligible to receive the AKC ribbon, certificate, and may submit for the official AKC title & AKC medal. 

Classes are intentionally kept small, four to six puppies, to provide individualized coaching, opportunities for questions, and personalized feedback throughout each session.

Absolutely. Everyone who will be involved in your puppy’s training is encouraged to attend so your puppy receives consistent communication and expectations at home. We just request only immediate family and to be mindful of distruptions due to space limitations. 

The first year of a puppy’s life lays the foundation for future behavior. A structured course provides guidance during important developmental stages, helping prevent common behavior problems while teaching skills you’ll use for years to come. You are taught how to teach your very own puppy!