11 dog owners learned how to teach their pets the right tricks from the very beginning at a special training programme run by Ards and North Down Borough Council during May and June (2015).

The five week puppy foundation course, which is part of the Kennel Club’s ‘Good Citizen Dog Scheme’, dealt specifically with basic commands such as sit, and stand, walking in a controlled way and food manners, as well as how to overcome and avoid problems with teething, sleeping and feeding, which are common among young dogs.

Mayor of Ards and North Down, Alderman Alan Graham, said:

“Puppies learn most of their behaviours - good or bad - at an early age so it is much better to train your puppy from as young an age as possible.  After all, a well behaved dog makes for a much more enjoyable lifelong companion.

“The Kennel Club class is fun and interactive.  Training techniques are demonstrated and then owners get to take part in a range of different exercises with their dogs.  Plus owners who successfully complete the course receive a Puppy Foundation Assessment Certificate.”

The Council will be running a more advanced class for adult dogs in September.  If you would like to receive information about the course contact Dawn Phillips on 028 9182 4043 or email dawn.phillips@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk.

Good Citizen puppy class participants with their dogs.