Due to the outbreak of COVID-19,
we will not be holding Barky Dog until it is safe to do so.
Instead, check out Barky Dog Management,
our new online class for reactive dogs!
Barky Dog
Enjoy your walks again.
When?
Saturdays at 10:00 am
Wednesdays at 6:00 pm
Class is run on rolling enrollment –
as soon as you’re ready to start, we’re ready to have you.
Where?
Union Bridge, MD
Approximately 25 minutes from Frederick, Westminster, and Eldersburg, MD.
Cost?
$300 for 6 classes
each class is 1 1/2 hour long
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this class right for my dog?
This class is for dogs who bark, lunge, or otherwise make a scene when they are in public on a leash and see another dog. These behaviors can be rooted in fear, anxiety, aggression, or over-excitement. This class is not appropriate for human directed aggression or reactivity (though we would be happy to help you in private sessions). If your dog has a bite history (has broken skin on another dog), we will need to discuss with you whether your dog would do well in class. Safety is our #1 priority.
What are the goals? What will my dog need to "graduate"?
Dogs completing Level 1 should be able to refocus on their owner after noticing another dog; walk alongside another dog 10 feet away; approach and pass another dog.
Will my dog graduate after six sessions?
This depends entirely on your dog, and on your ability to work between classes. Most teams are able to move to Group Hikes or Elementary Manners after six sessions. If your dog isn’t ready, you can continue signing up for sessions for as long as necessary.
How many dogs will there be? Won't my dog be barking the whole time?
To start, just one!
We will begin with one dog out at a time, and slowly introduce non-reactive decoy dogs in to the picture. As class progresses, other Barky Dogs will be able to work at the same time as their classmates.
To do this, class dogs will need to be able to wait comfortably in the car. Please bring whatever is necessary for your dog to be successful in waiting for 15 minutes in your car – crates, stuffed kong toys, bones, sheets to cover your car, another person, etc. We prefer to have you with us in class, even when your dog isn’t working, as you will gain a TON from watching the other dogs! If there is no way your dog can wait in a car without panicking or being destructive, please contact us and we will see what other arrangements can be made.
What do I need for class?
Treat pouch such as the Terry Ryan Treat Pouch
Hands free leash such as RuffWear Flat Out leash, or you can make your own by looping a 4 foot leash through a belt.
Water bowl and water
Secure equipment! We highly recommend the Freedom Harness. An EasyWalk is also acceptable, but is not as well made. We would prefer dogs to be on harnesses for better control – however, if you must use a collar instead, it will need to be a fabric martingale collar so the dog cannot slip out of it. Head halters such as the Gentle Leader are also acceptable.
A Kong with your dogs favorite stuffing (peanut butter, canned food, etc.) for break time in the car
LOTS of value treats – no exceptions! Must be along the lines of chicken, hot dog, cheese, etc.
To sign up for Barky Dog, please use the scheduler to the right.
After selecting the first date that works for your schedule,
be sure to then select
“CHOOSE RECURRING DATES”
to continue picking classes until you have reached six (6) total classes.
If you have trouble, please click here for a step by step guide.
If you still need help – send us an email! We’re more than happy to troubleshoot with you.
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Positive Reinforcement Training for Central Maryland: serving Frederick, New Market, Union Bridge, Mt. Airy, Libertytown, Sykesville, Eldersburg, and Westminster.
Home
About Us
Services
Contact Us
Positive Reinforcement Training for Central Maryland: serving Frederick, New Market, Union Bridge, Mt. Airy, Libertytown, Sykesville, Eldersburg, and Westminster.