This site is designed to provide free and easy-access information to get you started on the right track with your puppy.  Every dog has the potential to be a great dog, and it all starts with early learning.  It’s never too soon to start teaching your puppy.  In fact, you can start today. 

Click here to fill out our brief questionnaire that will be sent to our trainers, and enroll in a puppy class near you.

 Puppy Biting

Almost all young puppies bite.  They’re learning how to interact with humans and other dogs with their mouths through play.  That’s normal, but it’s up to us to gently show them that human skin is fragile.  Biting is not an appropriate way to play with humans.

View the full Biting Guide here.

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  Puppy Chewing

Puppies will chew on just about anything.  It is a natural part of their development.  Chewing will become more intense and possibly destructive as they begin teething.  (Puppy teeth fall out and are replaced by adult teeth).

View the full Chewing Guide here.

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Potty training is not complicated, but it does require effort and patience.  Set your puppy up to never make a mistake, and teach your puppy     that outside is the preferred place to "go".  Read about HOW to do this in the potty training guide below.

View the full Potty Training Guide here.

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     1) Puppy Class: specially designed for your puppy in the earliest stages of social development (8-18 weeks old). Our fun and dynamic puppy class focuses exclusively on puppy issues and your puppy's individual success. You'll learn how to solve puppy behavior problems (including mouthing, chewing and potty training) and how to prevent serious problems that could develop down the line. You’ll also learn how to teach basic manners.

    2) Private Lessons: custom designed and scheduled for your convenience.  We plan our time efficiently to maximize results.  You can expect clear instruction, demonstration of specific techniques, and coaching while you try out some new training skills.  Follow up questions by phone or e-mail are always welcome and free of charge.  Some problem behaviors may take multiple visits, but often we can get you and your dog back on track with just one.

    3) Lodge & Learn: another one-on-one option; leave the training to us while your dog stays at either of our facilities.  This is a great option if you are leaving for a business trip or vacation anyway.  We teach while you travel. Available for puppies 4 months and up.

Is Your too Young for Puppy Class? The most respected veterinary behavior organization in the country says puppies as young as 7 weeks can start puppy socialization classes. Read more.

               

Books:

Before and After You Get Your Puppy by Dr. Ian Dunbar

The Puppy Primer by Patricia McConnell and Brenda Scidmore

The Puppy Whisperer by Paul Owens and Terrance Cranendonk

Positive Puppy Training Works by Joel Walton

Websites:

WWW.MICHAELBAUGH.COM
Articles on puppy development, common behavior problems and changing dog behavior.

WWW.DOGSTARDAILY.COM
Articles on dogs and dog training from some of the most respected professionals in the world.  This site also includes a free book on puppy training and behavior.

"Andrea was our trainer for doggie obedience. And Pudge is just stupid in love with her. She trained us silly humans on how to request good behavior from our sometimes pushy stumpy dog. She was really great with him. We are looking forward to our vacation knowing he will get daily training with her while we are gone. Nothing like leaving your pup with someone who adores him as much as you do." -Deanna O.

"I wanted to give you a Maisy report. She is just great -- her behavior improved 100% after her stay at Rover Oaks. She does all her commands and is so much more manageable when we walk her. She is a real pleasure to be around now.....It's so nice to know that there is a place that Maisy can go for boarding and doggie daycare -- and that she'll be treated well and come home happy!"        -Anne E.

"I am a life long dog owner. Send my dog to doggie daycare - Never.  Have a trainer for my dog - Never.  I'll Never say Never again!   Adopted a 9/10 month mini dachshund mix with no training or socialization.  After several months I realized I needed help.  Thank you Rover Oaks!  Daycare and our trainer, Michael, have really improved our lives.   She adores her trainer.  The facility is clean and the staff has always been helpful and friendly. Staff members call her by name.  Most important, through training, my dog and I are learning and developing skills together.  A very pleased client." -Lynne B.