Each class runs for approximately one hour.

Our courses run for 4 weeks.

Our puppy classes will typically have 4-6 puppies in attendance.

Puppy classes are designed for puppies aged 8 to 12 weeks old (at the time of the first class), who are in their critical socialisation period. However, if your puppy is 13 to 14 weeks old (at the time of the first class), please contact Sarah at Jolly Dogs to discuss before you register.

Although the dog may look young and small, that does not mean they are in the same development stage. The critical socialisation phase for puppies is up to 16 weeks. It is vital that they learn to communicate and socialise with other dogs in a positive safe environment. Having older puppies, regardless of their size, can impact on a young puppy’s social development.

Yes, and it is recommended! It is important that puppies and dogs are exposed to other dogs of different sizes and breeds to help develop positive social skills!

Yes. A puppy must have had at least one vaccine and be up to date with all flea prevention, worming and tick prevention (where appropriate).

We have a strict sanitisation schedule and use disinfectant on the floors and equipment used in class to ensure there is no cross contamination and to minimise any risk. Every attempt is made to prevent any spreading of disease, although this cannot be guaranteed 100%.

We do recommend you carry your puppy from the car into the building.

You should bring the following items:

• Your puppy (obviously!).

• Your dog’s current vaccination certificate.

• A flat collar and a lead (no retractable leads).

• Plastic bags for poop pick-up.

• Treat pouch and high value treats (in pieces no larger than your small fingernail). It is recommended to use a semi-soft dog roll called “Superior Chunky”. It is a good quality meat-based roll that does not have a high-water content so it can be chopped into small pieces and is easy to dispense to your pup.

You should also make sure to:

• Arrive 10 minutes before class.

• Do not feed your puppy its evening meal prior to class. Puppies only have tiny stomachs and we will be using food in class which will be the same as giving them their dinner, just direct from you. We do not want them to have full tummies before class.

• Wear suitable attire and closed footwear.

• Always keep your puppy on their leash, unless instructed by your trainer.

If you are unable to make a class, you can contact Jolly Dogs to seek advice and homework. Another person can attend the class if you cannot, but we must be notified. No partial refunds will be given for a missed class, and missed classes cannot be made up at a later date due to puppy age, development, and socialisation milestones. Exceptional circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

If your puppy is not well (e.g. but not limited to vomiting, lethargic, diarrhoea), it must not come to class. However, you may attend class without your puppy so you will not miss that lesson and can be provided with homework and advice. A vet clearance will be required for your puppy to return to class.