January is National Dog Training Month

National Dog Training Month

is a reminder that training can go way beyond sit, stay, down.  There are lots of opportunities every day to make an exchange with your dog a “training moment”.  But if you’d like to go to the next level and enjoy a new experience with your dog, here are some options in Sarasota for dog training that you might not have considered.

Dock Diving

Is a relatively new sport to Sarasota.  Dogs jump out from a platform to catch a lure that has been tossed by their trainer out across a pool.  We recently watched this competition on the BarkNetwork.com and some dogs were achieving jumps of up to 30 feet.  Check out DivingDogs.com Looks like fun for a hot day.

Assistive Therapy Dog Training

Is your dog even tempered and patient?  He or she may be a candidate as a Therapy Dog.  This will allow you and your dog to visit hospitals and nursing homes and spread good cheer.  Assistive Therapy Dog Training is offered by Jeanine’s Professional Dog Training.

Agility for fun or competition

Weave poles, Tire jump and the Catwalk.  Basic and more advanced classes are offered by OceanWolf Agility.  This family oriented activity means quality time with you and your dog and a chance to meet other people who want to have fun with their dogs.

Puppy Kindergarten

If you have a young dog this class should be absolutely first on your list.  Offered by Mark Shambour of K9 Korral, this class will help you master the Puppy Training 101.  Leave it, sit, stay, come and the basics of socialization are offered in an easy to understand – and practice at home format.

Flyball & Freestyle Dancing

Offered by Sarasota Obedience and Training Center.  Flyball is an athletic activity for dog and owner allows for lots of interaction and team work. Find the details about Flyball classes here.  Freestyle Dancing is a really a series of obedience commands set to music.  This is a really fun for kids and adults.

K9 Search and Rescue

This intensive course will prepare you and your dog to assist in community Search and Rescue efforts. A challenging class with special rewards.  The next review period will be in July of 2011.  Check out the details on K9 Search and Rescue.

Just want to socialize with your Dog?

Check out the Sarasota Dog MeetUp group.  We’ll get together once a month at dog-friendly restaurants, and other dog friendly venues.  A great group of dog loving people from Sarasota and the surrounding areas.