FEISTY FIDOS CLASSES
If your dog has a bone to pick with other dogs (as a result of fear or otherwise), a regular training class may not a conducive environment to learn in. Feisty Fidos is a three-part course created and designed specifically by St. Hubert’s for dogs that have “issues” with other dogs.
Feisty Fidos Part One
Course Length: One hour each week for eight weeks
Age: Dogs six months and older
Price: $400
We occasionally receive questions from students whether the dogs will in any way interact with each another. The intent of the Feisty Fido class is NOT to socialize dogs with one another via play groups, nose-to-nose on-leash greetings or any other way.
The main purpose of this class is to give you and your dog tools and resources you will need to help your dog cope in the presence of other dogs. In this class, you and your dogs will learn specifically designed behavior modification techniques like desensitization and counterconditioning while simultaneously teaching your dog’s skills to avoid conflicts with other dogs and to pay more attention to you.
If you anticipated dog-dog socialization activities as part of the curriculum, please email the Training & Behavior Center (training@sthuberts.org) to discuss other options.
Description: This is course is run by two training and behavior modification instructors. You will learn how to better read your dog's body language and body postures, in addition to learning proper handling skills. You will become familiar with behavior modification techniques like desensitization and counterconditioning while simultaneously teaching your dog skills to avoid conflict and pay more attention to you. We will also teach you how to get out of tough situations with your dog. All dogs will be conditioned to wearing a muzzle due to the nature of the course, and you may be required to condition your dog to accept other special training equipment that will aid you in the behavior modification process (some special equipment included).
PLEASE NOTE: The first week of class is mandatory orientation without your dog.
IF YOU MISS THE ORIENTATION THERE WILL BE A $75 FEE FOR A PRIVATE CONSULTATION THAT IS REQUIRED BEFORE YOU CAN ATTEND WEEK 2. THERE ARE NO REFUNDS ISSUED OR CLASS CHANGES DUE TO MISSING ORIENTATION.
Feisty Fidos Part Two
Course Length: One hour each week for six weeks
Age: Dogs six months and older
Price: $250
Pre-Requisites: Feisty Fidos Part One or must have approval from the instructor
Description: This course will be held outdoors at our Madison facility. In Feisty Fidos Part II, training and behavior modification instructors help you solidify skills with additional distractions outside. The class is designed to increase your dog's ability to tolerate the presence of other dogs while outside and to teach you how to respond to surprising or unexpected situations you may encounter while walking your dog. We also focus on building your confidence in leash-handling and show you how to practice the skills you need to reduce your dog's problematic behavior.
Feisty Fidos Part Three
Course Length: One hour each week for six weeks
Age: Dogs six months and older
Price: $250
Pre-Requisites: Feisty Fidos Part 2 - can register by invitation only.
Description: This 6-week outdoor class is by invitation only and is for students who have successfully completed Feisty Fidos Level 2. Dogs must be comfortable wearing muzzles both on and off leash. The object of this class is to teach appropriate candidates how to interact with one another in a safe and controlled setting. Advanced skills will be taught using long lines and fenced areas. Some weeks will be offsite in public areas so dogs must be proficient in FF level 2 techniques and handlers must be able to physically control their own dog in public.
Feisty Fidos Fearful Friends
Course Length: One hour each week for six weeks
Age: Dogs six months and older
Price: $380
Description: In this course, we will help you to expose your dog to a variety of novel situations at a gentle pace. You will learn about setting appropriate expectations, reading canine body language, understanding fear in dogs, and setting up your dog for safety and success. Activities in class are designed to help your dog build confidence, so they can live their best life. When appropriate, helper dogs will be used to model brave behavior. Instructors will be there to answer all of your questions throughout the course. Other owners of fearful dogs will be present to share ideas and celebrate successes. This class is perfect for dogs who are shy, fearful, or even terrified. Hoarding case dogs, island dogs, puppy mill dogs, or dogs that are fearful for no known reason are all invited to attend.
PLEASE NOTE: This class is not for dogs that lunge at, bark at, or exhibit aggressive behavior when faced with unfamiliar dogs or people.
