Welcome to our training class. You are about to embark on an experience that will make a lasting impression on you and your dog. Training can be fun ... both for you and your dog. He will be a better citizen and a much more enjoyable companion ... and you will be a proud owner of a well-trained dog. Like most sports or hobbies, dog training requires time and effort. You will be expected to devote at least a few minutes a day to your dog's training. All dogs do not progress at the same speed, but we do expect you to do the best you can with your dog. The progress of the class depends on the week-to-week improvement of each dog.

Ninety-five percent of teaching your dog depends on you. The aim of basic training is to make your dog a companion dog. This can be accomplished only if you follow a progressive system of exercises.

Get acquainted with your instructor. Feel free to talk over any special problem before or after class.

A club must have discipline and cooperation from its trainees. It is therefore necessary to ask that you adhere to a set of rules intended for the benefit of all concerned. So please observe the following rules and instructions:

1. Be sure your dog has been vaccinated against rabies, distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus.
2. You are required to use training equipment as shown by your instructor.
3. Wear durable, washable clothes and tennis shoes or rubber-soled flat shoes. .
4. Do not use other training methods. Literature and homework will be provided. Ask your instructor if you don't understand something. Work your dog daily for at least 15-20 minutes.
5. No smoking or drinking of alcoholic beverages is allowed in training area.
6. For safety reasons, no children under 12 are allowed in the training area.
7. Keep your dog on a short lead when entering and leaving, You, visitors, and your dog should stay away from other dogs in class. Some dogs may be aggressive or out of control. Visitors are welcome as long as they are quiet and not distracting.
8. Attendance is very important, however sick, injured, or in season dogs are not allowed. Missing two consecutive classes may justify you being dropped back to the next class. If missing a class, call your instructor for homework in order to keep up. Please arrive on time to avoid distractions to others.
9. Do not feed your dog before class. Feed in the morning and/or after class.
10. Your dog should be exercised and well groomed/clean for class.
11. No dog shall be substituted for another and the same person should remain as the trainer throughout the class sessions.
12. Trainers and dogs are expected to be on good behavior during class..
13. Failure to comply with class rules will be grounds for dismissal from class.

Thank you for enrolling in our class. Dallas Obedience Training Club, Inc. a not for profit organization, was organized in 1948, and is the only all breed obedience club in Dallas licensed by American Kennel Club to hold AKC trials. We appreciate your training with us and hope you will work hard and complete the course.