Quick Answer
Why Puppy School Matters
Exposure to various people, dogs, and environments
🐕🦺 Foundation Training
Basic commands and household manners
🚫 Behavior Prevention
Reduces risk of fear, aggression, and anxiety
🤝 Human-Canine Bonding
Strengthens relationship between owner and puppy
ANKC Accreditation Benefits
Qualified instructors following ethical methods
🏫 Safe Environment
Health-checked puppies in controlled settings
📚 Structured Curriculum
Evidence-based training program
📜 Recognized Standards
Meets ANKC's national guidelines for puppy training
Health & Safety First
The Critical socialisation Period
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior states that the primary socialisation period for puppies is between 3-14 weeks of age. During this time, positive experiences with various stimuli have lasting effects on a dog's temperament. ANKC-accredited puppy schools provide controlled, positive exposure to:
Social Experiences
- Meeting different people (adults, children, seniors)
- Interacting with other vaccinated puppies
- Exposure to various human appearances and behaviors
- Positive handling by strangers
Environmental Exposure
- Different surfaces (grass, tile, wood, carpet)
- Household noises (vacuum, doorbell, appliances)
- Various environments (indoor, outdoor, cars)
- Novel objects and obstacles
Basic Training Foundation
- Name recognition and attention exercises
- Basic commands (sit, down, come, stay)
- Lead walking introduction
- Crate and confinement training
Behavior Management
- Bite inhibition training
- Proper play and interaction skills
- Handling and grooming desensitization
- Problem prevention strategies
ANKC Puppy Preschool Program
The Australian National Kennel Council's Puppy Preschool program is nationally recognized and follows these key principles according to their official guidelines:
- Positive reinforcement-based training using rewards like treats and praise
- Small class sizes (typically 4-8 puppies) for individual attention
- Age-appropriate activities matching puppies' developmental stages
- Structured curriculum covering essential socialisation and basic training
- Owner education on puppy development and behavior management
What to Bring to Puppy School
| Type | Best For | Recommended Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Collar & Lead | Safe identification and control during classes | Adjustable flat buckle collar, 1.2m lead |
| High-Value Treats | Motivation and positive reinforcement | Small, soft treats like chicken, cheese, or liver |
| Favorite Toy | Comfort and engagement during breaks | Soft toy or chew item |
| Vaccination Records | Health verification (required by ANKC schools) | Veterinary health certificate |
Shiba Inu-Specific Considerations
According to the National Shiba Club of America and Australian Shiba Inu breeders, Shiba Inus benefit particularly from puppy school due to their unique temperament traits:
- Independent nature - Early socialisation helps Shibas learn to work cooperatively with humans
- Strong prey drive - Controlled exposure to other small animals teaches appropriate behavior
- Selective hearing - Foundation training establishes important communication patterns
- Cleanliness instinct - Early crate training aligns with their natural denning preferences
- Social selectivity - Positive experiences with various dogs and people build confidence
Professional Groomer Tip
Choosing a Puppy School in Australia
Do
- •Choose ANKC-accredited or Delta Institute-certified puppy schools
- •Visit the facility beforehand to observe a class in session
- •Verify trainer qualifications and continuing education
- •Ensure classes use positive reinforcement methods only
Don't
- •Avoid schools that use punishment, choke chains, or electronic collars
- •Don't choose classes with more than 8 puppies per instructor
- •Avoid facilities that don't require vaccination records
- •Don't continue with trainers who use force or intimidation methods
Evidence-Based Benefits
Research published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior demonstrates that puppies attending socialisation classes:
- 56% reduction in behavior problems as adults (Seksel et al., 1999)
- Higher obedience scores compared to unsocialized puppies
- Reduced fear responses to novel stimuli throughout life
- Better adaptation to new environments and changes
- Lower surrender rates to shelters due to behavior issues
The Australian Veterinary Association supports these findings, recommending puppy school as a crucial component of preventive healthcare.
Cost vs. Value Analysis
According to RSPCA Australia statistics:
- Average puppy school cost: $150-$300 for 4-6 week course
- Average behavior consultation cost: $200-$500 per session
- Cost of treating behavior problems: Often exceeds $1,000+
- Non-financial costs: Stress on family, risk of rehoming
Investing in puppy school represents significant long-term savings and prevents the emotional and financial costs of behavior problems.
Continuing Education After Puppy School
The ANKC recommends ongoing training through their progressive programs:
- Beginner Obedience - Building on puppy school foundation
- Canine Good Citizen - Testing real-world skills and manners
- Specialty Classes - Agility, nosework, or advanced obedience
- Breed-Specific Activities - Conformation, rally, or other sports
Regular training maintains mental stimulation and strengthens the human-canine bond throughout your Shiba Inu's life.
COVID-19 Considerations
Post-pandemic, many Australian puppy schools offer:
- Hybrid options - Combining in-person and online sessions
- Smaller class sizes - Maintaining social distancing
- Outdoor classes - Lower transmission risk environments
- Virtual consultations - For puppies with health concerns
According to the Australian Veterinary Association, the benefits of socialisation outweigh COVID risks when proper precautions are taken.
Ready to Start Your Shiba Inu's Training Journey?
Find more of our helpful guides here or learn about additional training activities to complement puppy school.
Professional recommendation: The Australian Veterinary Association and ANKC strongly endorse accredited puppy school attendance for all puppies.