Two of my puppies have gone through the Wagmore puppy socialization class, and I am very satisfied with the experience.
First of all is the convenience. I was able to create an online profile, upload vaccination information, book and pay online, and connect face to face in the office when I had questions.
Second, the facilities are excellent: a new headquarters on Haskell as well as the huge training facility in the Office Depot building on Iowa. I haven't tried classes in the tiny areas of pet stores in town, but this large, clean, and quiet training center is purpose built. It was much nicer than going to the Douglas County Fairgrounds for a class with the Jayhawk AKC Club because the floor mats and fences are stable, and nothing else--not even another class--was going on. This was the least distracting environment possible for a group class.
Best of all were the trainers. The owners and the young assistants were all quietly, confidently efficient. Every dog there seemed to enjoy the experience and get individual attention. My two pups would come in competing for attention, then settle down and work!
Everything and everyone seemed calm and happy.
The first week, my two dogs were the tiniest puppies, and we were steered to a separately fenced area where they were not intimidated. Near the end of the class, a slightly bigger dog joined us, and there were four dogs in the baby pen the second week. After that, my dogs were confident, friendly, and appropriate with every dog there. This is my main goal for puppy socialization, and learning the commands to sit, down, and come are very nice bonuses.
Each 45-minute class consisted of the same routine. We would settle down, then learn and practice a few commands. After 15-20 minutes, dogs would go off leash to socialize. The second round had some different commands, and each class ended with the dogs chilling with their owners (getting handled and learning behaviors for grooming and the vet). In addition to the trainer leading each class, there were always at least two other staffers, with one at the door and another one or two assisting with the class. Somehow it never seemed chaotic!
It was fun for all, with almost no barking, growling, or soiling (though staff was standing ready, armed with spray bottles and wipes). There were extra treats available, and many free handouts and suggestions. The class has rolling enrollment, which meant that the same basic commands were repeated each time, and my pups got to meet more dogs. There was lots of happy wagging all round!
This class was not cheap. It cost about $150, which is significantly more than at PetSmart or the AKC. Note that while I have worked with an excellent trainer through Jayhawk AKC, I was amazed by the quality and consistency at Wagmore. Personalities did not seem to affect the product; every class was similarly smooth.
In any dog training scenario, it's about training the owner at least as much as the dog. This introduction to Wagmore was well worth the price. I look forward to learning more in Basic Manners and beyond! read more
