Puppy Kindergarten Class
A learn and play group class for puppies at least 8 weeks old who will complete the course before they turn 16 weeks old.
To join this class, puppies need at least their first round of vaccinations. They don't need to be fully vaccinated, and the rabies vaccine isn't required yet.
What is Puppy Class?
Puppy Class at Airdrie Puppy Pals brings together training and socialization to support your puppy during their early learning window. During this group class, you'll get hands-on guidance for navigating puppyhood, everything from teething to potty training, what socialization means, and how to help your puppy start their life on the right paw.
Each group class is led by Nikki Nordick, owner of Airdrie Puppy Pals. She holds five certifications in dog training and behavior, including CDBC, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, FFCP, and IAABC-ADT, along with hundreds of continuing education hours in animal behavior. You'll learn how to support your puppy at home while they build confidence and practice age-appropriate social skills indoors.
What do they learn in class?
Puppies learn and practice skills like:
Name recognition
Handling
Coming when called
Walking on a leash
And much more! They also build confidence through activities designed for young puppies in this age range, including off-leash group running, sniffing, and playing.
This course welcomes puppies of any size or breed, as long as they meet the age and vaccination requirements above. We check vaccinations at the start of the first class and structure group play to help every puppy have a positive experience.
Why Early Socialization Matters
We have proudly been offering Puppy Class for over a decade, helping puppy parents build strong relationships with their dogs from the very beginning. We've seen firsthand what a difference early socialization can make for puppies.
With an intentional approach, early socialization can help prevent fear, anxiety, and behavior challenges later in life. That's why we follow guidelines from veterinary and animal behavior organizations like AVSAB, AVMA, and CVMA to keep classes clean and safe while your puppy learns skills for this stage of life, plays with puppies their own age, and builds confidence in a supportive environment.
What to Bring to Puppy Class
Your puppy is welcome to wear a regular flat collar or a harness. Please bring:
A fixed length leash (not the extendible kind)
A variety of treats your puppy will love!
How many people can join?
Up to two people can join each Puppy Class, and it doesn't have to be the same people each time! At least one needs to be 18 or older.