Where We're Headed

Canine Prep 101

Americans have embraced the joys of dog ownership for centuries, from George Washington and his American Foxhounds to George W. Bush and his Scottish Terriers. Today, there are approximately 73 million dogs in the US and their roles in society have shifted from hunter and working dogs to family companion.

Acme Canine recognizes that canine companionship is not only a right but also a privilege that must be respected and nurtured. We believe in the importance of educating individuals on dog care and have based a series of workshops to assist them. Whether you are looking to add a puppy to your family for the first time or are lifelong dog lovers, “bone up” on responsible dog ownership through this four-part course. You will learn the best toys and games for your dog, proper grooming skills, nutritional needs and more.

Come, Sit, Stay and learn what it takes to be a responsible dog owner. Our best friend is counting on you.

Fetch & Retrieval Skills

Playing fetch is sometimes easier said than done. In this two-part class Acme Canine will teach you and your dog to play fetch the way it was meant to be played. We will then take it one step further and help your dog develop retrieval skills that have real life applications. Part one will focus on fetch as a game teaching your dog to go after a toy, pick it up, bring it back, and then release it to you. Part two will begin the process of turning fetch into retrieval. Your dog will learn to retrieve several different objects with his mouth, and then release them into your hand. Have fun, play games, and give your dog some useful skills. Go Fetch!!

Scentwork

While we as humans see the world around us, our dogs smell the world around them. Their noses are always working, so why not use this as an opportunity to exercise and bond with your dog? This two-part class will help develop your dog's natural scenting ability. Your dog will learn to focus on a particular scent, find the source of that scent, and then alert you when he has found it. As your dog's handler you will learn to observe your dog, paying close attention to his body language and other visual cues, as well as develop handling skills necessary to support your dog. This is a great opportunity for you and your dog to build trust, improve your bond, and learn to work as a team; all while having fun!

Puppy Headstart

Acme Canine Puppy Headstart sessions are setup on a rotating basis. Clients may attend one or all sessions. If a client is currently in preschool they may still attend Headstart. This program focuses on puppy obedience commands each week. It is a continuation of our preschool session “puppy commands week four” for those who would like more help on specific commands. It is designed for young puppies and serves as a bridge between preschool and basic obedience class or formal obedience training with Acme Canine. Preschool is not a mandatory prerequisite but is highly encouraged.

Hiking and Camping with your Dog

Camping and hiking with a dog can be a joyous experience for both owner and dog. Dogs discover interesting features you might otherwise overlook, and a dog is thrilled at the new smells and sites of a camp site. Some avid outdoors people believe that a dog can appreciate a spectacular panoramic view as much as a human can. But when bringing your dog along on a camping or backpacking trip, you need to make extra plans specifically for your canine companion.

By the end of this six-part course you will see new characteristics in your dog when you are camping with him. His walk may be a little faster, his eyes opened a little wider, and his head held a little higher when you're out in the wilds.

Fitness Fun with Fido

The statistics are in: more than 40 percent of American dogs are overweight. With this six-week course you will find a program that will turn your dog into your workout buddy. You'll both lose weight and feel great in the process. Inspired by personal fitness trainer, Stacy Gotti, Acme Canine has teamed up to create a progressive, fun, and effective exercise program with a dog-lover twist.

Similar to Thank Dog Boot Camp and the New York dog fitness class, Fitness Fun with Fido offers all the tools you'll need to achieve a lifetime of good health—for yourself and for your four-legged workout partner, too! Don't have a dog? You can ‘rent' one from Acme Canine for this program.