Courteous Canine

Courteous Canine offers a wide array of training programs. These include private training and behavior modification, puppy training (Puppy Classes, Puppy Kindergarten, Focused Puppy), and adult classes (Basic Dog Training, Advanced Dog Training – Beyond the Basics, Get Focused!, Outdoor Adventures).

They also specialize in addressing specific behavioral issues with classes like Feisty Fido for reactive dogs and Behavior Bootcamp. Sport classes include AKC Rally Obedience, Backyard Agility, and AKC Fit Dog. Therapy dog training is available through Therapy Dog Classes and the Professional Therapy Dog Program, along with AKC testing evaluations (CGC, CGCA, Urban, Virtual).

Additionally, they host playgroups such as Puppy Playgroup and Peanut’s Small Dog Playgroup. Group classes are staffed with one lead training instructor. Dogs participating in group classes must be friendly or neutral towards unfamiliar dogs and people; otherwise, Feisty Fido or in-home training options are recommended. Disruptive dogs in class may be managed with visual barriers.

Pricing Summary

Pricing information for private training includes separate rates for intake appointments and ongoing appointments. Gift cards are available for purchase. Class fees can be paid by check or cash if not paid during registration.

Policies

Dogs participating in group classes must be friendly or neutral toward unfamiliar dogs and people. Dogs that lunge, bark, or growl at others should consider the Feisty Fido class or in-home training. Dogs showing aggression towards people require a referral for private behavior modification. Disruptive dogs in class may be managed with visual barriers.

Children under 6 years old may attend class if another adult is present to supervise them and may not handle the dog. Children ages 6 to 12 may attend without a second adult and can handle the dog under direct adult supervision. Children 13 and older can be the primary handler with written adult permission. Only one child may handle a dog at a time. Children should not interact with other dogs without permission from parents/supervisors, the dog’s owner, and the instructor. Children must be seated during off-leash playtime in puppy classes and small dog playgroup.

Health requirements for puppies under 12 weeks include living in the home for at least one week, one or more distemper and parvo vaccinations, and a negative fecal test from their veterinarian. For puppies 12 weeks and older and adult dogs, requirements include living in the home for at least two weeks, two or more distemper and parvo vaccinations, and rabies vaccination as required by law. A negative fecal test is required for Focused Puppy, Puppy & Small Dog Playgroup. Bordetella (kennel cough) is not required. Attendees without proof of a negative fecal sample cannot participate in off-leash socialization but can join the training portion. Intact animals are allowed, but females in season must remain home until their cycle is complete. For minimal vaccination protocols, a positive ELISA titer test (>=1:80) is required.

Courteous Canine, founded in 2008, is a leading dog training and dog care facility serving Rhode Island. They aim to help families and their dogs find happiness through training.

The business offers a comprehensive range of services including private pet dog training, behavior modification, puppy training and socialization, and various dog training classes. They also provide dog and puppy playgroups, dog sports, pet first aid training, and therapy dog classes.

Courteous Canine emphasizes using only positive training methods based on canine behavioral science. Their expert trainers are recommended by local vets and humane societies, providing a fun and supportive environment for dogs to learn real-life skills and get social time, exercise, and stimulation. They also operate Unleashed! day camp.

Accomplishments

Founded in 2008, Courteous Canine is described as the leading dog training and dog care facility serving Rhode Island. Their expert trainers are recommended by local veterinarians and humane societies.

How to Get Started!

To begin, an Initial Consultation will be scheduled. Clients will receive an initial consultation form via email, which must be completed and returned at least 48 hours prior to the appointment. Training may or may not occur during this first session, depending on the time and extent of the issues. Clients are advised to complete a Client History Form beforehand and prepare a list of questions or concerns. All individuals involved in the pet’s daily training or management should attend the sessions, or review recommendations afterward. A summary will be provided, but personal notes are encouraged.

For in-home sessions, if the pet is aggressive toward strangers, it must be secured (e.g., on leash, in crate, in another room) upon arrival. The consultation is informal and conversational, focusing on reviewing history and behavior concerns, and discussing a management and action plan. For follow-up sessions, clients should review notes from the prior session, respond via email to confirm receipt, and prepare new questions. Pets should have restricted feeding for 4-6 hours prior to follow-up appointments, and favorite treats/toys should be handy. For group classes, dogs registered for Feisty Fido or Touching Tails Therapy Dog classes do not attend the first session; for all other classes, dogs attend the first session.