Dogs under 6 months of age, regardless of size, should almost always be in the KPT class; the lessons are different and it is the only chance the puppy will get to be in the “puppy play pile”! Usually dogs over 6 months of age and under 45 pounds are enrolled in the Small Dog Beginner class, and dogs over 6 months of age and 45 pounds and over are enrolled in the Large Dog Beginner class. Although you’ll be in groups with mixed-sizes of dogs in regular life circumstances, we’ve found it is easier for beginner dogs and handlers to start among similar-sized dogs. Sometimes an unusually large-sized group of dogs enrolls and the break between “Small” and “Large” is at a larger pound limit; it was 65 pounds one semester and the largest dog was 145 pounds!
In addition, the age and temperament of a dog may make a difference in what class would be best. For example, a slightly smaller dog can be very dominant or aggressive and might fit in the larger group, or a young larger dog can be very timid and might fit in the smaller group.
If you have a question which class would be best for your pup, you can write some notes on your enrollment form or contact us to discuss.