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Grade 1 Class

Grade 1 Obedience Dog Training Class

Grade 1 Melton Dog Obedience builds upon the foundation established in the Prep classes, refining skills and introducing more advanced concepts. These classes are designed for dogs and owners who have mastered basic commands and are ready to take their training to the next level.

Class Structure and Content

Advanced Commands

Grade 1 classes introduce and reinforce more complex commands:

  • Leave: Teaching the dog to ignore distractions
  • Heel: building on the foundation of loose lead walking 
  • Tones of voice: correct use of the Command, Praise and Correction tones
  • Heel with distractions: Maintaining focus during walks
  • Stay (in both the sit and stand position): Building on the duration and distance 
  • Down: Teaching the dog to drop on command (hand signal and vocie command)
  • Stand for Exam: Teaching your dog to stand in a stay position with distraction
  • Recall: Teaching your dog to return to you when called (on lead) a reliable recall is essential for off lead situations

Precision and Duration

Classes focus on improving the quality of previously learned behaviors:

  • Extending the duration of stays
  • Introducing recalls
  • Refining loose lead heeling incorporating pace and turns 
  • Improving response time to commands

Behavioral Refinement

This class assists with addressing more complex behavioral issues:

  • Reducing reactive behaviors
  • Proper greeting of people and other dogs

Training Techniques

Advanced Positive Reinforcement

Grade 1 classes delve deeper into praise-based training:

  • Variable reinforcement schedules
  • Using life rewards (play, freedom) 
  • Tone of voice and placement for commands 

Proofing Behaviors

Instructors guide owners in solidifying learned behaviors and how to get the most out of your practivce at home:

  • Training in different locations
  • Adding distractions gradually

Class Format

Duration and Structure

Grade 1 does not have time frame for completion, each dog is different and will progress at different paces, graduation to grade two is done at one of our three club day events or at the request of the head instructor. 

Practical Applications

Classes incorporate real-world scenarios:

  • Mock obedience trials
  • Simulated distractions (noises, movement)
  • Group exercises for socialization

Homework and Progression

To ensure continued improvement:

  • Continuing at home practice assignments
  • Introduction to competitive obedience concepts

Melton Dog Obedience Club Grade 1 classes provide a comprehensive next step for dogs and owners who have mastered the basics. These classes refine obedience skills strengthening the bond between dogs and their owners while creating well-mannered, responsive companions.