Leash Walking 101
Registration is now open for our Leash Walking 101 class.
Class Overview
Does your dog pull on the leash, making walks more stressful than enjoyable? If you’re dreading your daily outings, our Leash Walking 101 class is for you!
Join us for a fun and informative class where you'll learn why dogs pull and how to make your walks more enjoyable for both you and your pup. In our final session, you'll put everything into practice with a field trip to downtown Canmore—a great way to test your progress in a real-world setting! Let’s turn those leash struggles into stress-free strolls!
Please note: there will be no dog-to-dog interaction in this class.
Here’s What We’ll Cover
- Essential training foundations to improve communication with your dog
- Different types of walks to incorporate into your routine
- The best equipment for safe and effective leash walking
- Fun games each week to strengthen your skills
What You’ll Need
- Flat collar or harness (preferred)
- 4 to 6 foot leash - no retractable leashes permitted
- Variety of yummy treats
- Treat pouch - optional but recommended
- Water and water bowl for your dog
Registration & Enrollment
Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that your registration will not be considered complete until payment has been received and vaccination records have been submitted. 100% of the net proceeds from your registration fee goes to the BVSPCA, so not only are you helping your dog by attending, but you are helping our dogs too!
Class Details
Price: $350
Duration: 6 weeks
Session length: 60 minutes (last session will be 90 minutes)
Class size: 8 dogs (one adult handler that will attend each week)
Location: Outdoors at The Carla Cumming Sojonky Adoption Centre
Trainer: Dawn Baggley
Pre-requisites: No previous training required
Current Booking: Registration is now open!
- April 27 to June 8, 2025: Classes run for 6 weeks on Sunday afternoons, from 2:00 to 3:00pm. Last class is Sunday, June 8 and will run until 3:30pm. (Note there is no class on Sunday, May 18th). Register HERE.
Class Requirements
Dog Age: 20 weeks and older (5 months and older)
Vaccinations: Your dog must be up-to-date on all vaccinations (Rabies, Bordetella and DAPP).*
Spay/Neuter: Not required for this class. However, if your female dog goes into heat, they will not be allowed to attend class, and no refunds will be given for missed sessions. Intact males exhibiting disruptive behaviors may be asked to step out to regroup.
*Proof of up-to-date vaccination (not overdue) must be provided within 48 hours of registration by email to events@bowvalleyspca.org. Failure to provide documentation within this time period will result in cancellation of registration without refund.
Owners must sign a waiver, which includes agreeing not to use aversive/punishment based methods at home. Aversive equipment such as prong collars, e-collars, choke chains and martingale collars will not be permitted in class.
About Your Trainer
Dawn Baggley
With over 12 years of experience in dog training, Dawn is passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, positive relationships. As the Head Trainer and Co-Owner of Yoho Tails, Dawn specializes in creating fun, effective, and science-based training programs for dogs of all ages and skill levels.
Experience:
- Private & Group Training: Puppy classes, general obedience, rally obedience, and agility.
- Service & Therapy Dog Training: Experience selecting and training service and therapy dogs, designing obedience and socialization programs, and coordinating therapy dog teams.
- Certifications: CPDT-KA, FDM, and Pet First Aid
Whether you’re looking to teach your puppy the basics, refine your dog’s manners, or try something new like rally, Dawn is here to help! Her training methods are force-free, positive, and designed to set you and your dog up for success.
