What to bring to class?

• Training Collar: Please bring your dog wearing the collar or training equipment you currently use, such as a martingale, slip collar, prong collar, Halti, or Gentle Leader. Your dog should arrive at the training building wearing this equipment so your instructor can evaluate its fit and suitability. If you do not have an appropriate training collar, Carolina Canine College offers a variety of collars for purchase. Your instructor will be happy to help you select the best option for your dog.

• Six-Foot Leash: Bring a lightweight, six-foot leash that is comfortable to handle. Chain leashes and retractable leashes (Flexi leads) are not permitted in class. Suitable collars and leashes are available for purchase at our campus boutique.

• Favorite Toy: Bring a special toy reserved exclusively for training, both during class and while practicing at home. Keeping this toy out of your dog's everyday toy collection helps maintain its value as a reward. Think of it as a special privilege rather than an ordinary household toy!

• Treat Pouch: Bring a fanny pack, bait pouch, training vest, or clothing with accessible pockets. You will need to reward your dog frequently, so treats should be easy to reach without interrupting your training.

• High-Value Training Treats: Bring something extra special that your dog does not ordinarily receive. Some favorites include Bil-Jac or Polkadog treats, chicken hot dogs, string cheese, cooked dark meat chicken, or small pieces of leftover unseasoned meat. There is no need to purchase expensive specialty treats. Your refrigerator may already contain everything you need! For the best results:

  • Bring several different treats to keep your dog interested and motivated.

  • Cut treats into soft, bite-sized pieces, approximately the size of a pencil eraser.

  • Avoid hard, crunchy biscuits and bones; treats should be easy to swallow without interrupting training.

  • Bring enough treats to last the entire hour.

  • Refrigerate any appropriate leftovers and save them for homework.

• A Hungry Student Is a Motivated Student! Consider skipping your dog's regular dinner before an evening class or offering a smaller meal earlier in the day. A dog with a healthy appetite is generally more interested in working for food rewards. Puppies, dogs with medical conditions, and dogs requiring scheduled meals should maintain their veterinarian-recommended feeding routines.

• Vaccination Requirements: All dogs attending Carolina Canine College classes must have a current rabies vaccination. Please ensure your dog's vaccination records are up to date before attending.

• Dogs with a Bite History: The safety of our students, handlers, and instructors is always a priority. If your dog has a history of biting a person or another dog, resulting in an injury requiring medical or veterinary attention, our group classes may not be the appropriate environment.

​​

Please contact Carolina Canine College before registering. We will be happy to discuss your circumstances and, when appropriate, recommend a qualified professional who specializes in more complex behavioral concerns.

​

Questions? We're Here to Help!

Call (843) 999-0294 if you have questions about equipment, class preparation, or whether a particular class is suitable for your dog.

​

We look forward to welcoming you and your canine scholar to campus!

Carolina Canine College: Learn, Play, Stay & Shine! 🎓