You Know You’re a Dog Person When…

At AWS’s Canine Training program, you learn fast that there are people who like dogs, and then there are dog people. Dog people know the difference between a snuffle mat and a flirt pole, wear treat pouches like fashion accessories and consider “good boy” the highest form of praise. Either way, no matter where you’re at in your “dog person” journey, we know that any level is welcome to join our training classes – and you may just become one of the pack!

These are the signs that you’re officially one of the pack:

• Your weekend plans revolve around your dog’s schedule.

With training class at 10, decompression walk at noon, and enrichment time before dinner, you’re officially booked for the day. Their schedule is your schedule!

• Your coat pockets are full of mystery crumbs (a.k.a. treats).

Every jacket pocket becomes a treat pouch. You’ve also accepted that you will absolutely find stray dog treats in the washing machine at some point.

• Your camera roll is 95% dog photos.

There are at least 50 photos of your dog doing the exact same thing, and you refuse to delete any of them!

• You check the AWS adoption webpage multiple times a day.

It’s hard to resist the urge to look at those cute faces! You just want to see who got adopted, who’s new, or who you would totally bring home if your dog wouldn’t revolt!

• You get oddly excited about enrichment toys.

Why shop for just yourself when you can also shop for your best friend! Shopping for the newest treat-dispensing balls, puzzle toys and licky mats are your idea of retail therapy.

• Weekly group dog training classes are your version of a social club.

You come for the leash manners, but stay for the laughs, trainer stories, and familiar faces. Your dog isn’t the only one who enjoys seeing their classmates each week! The environment at AWS’ Canine Training classes will have you wanting to come back to see your canine and human friends!

• You find yourself mentioning your trainer’s name like they’re part of the family.

Building that bond with your canine is special, and the trainers at AWS make a special bond with you and your canine! You’ll have so much fun you might catch yourself saying:

“Roberta would remind us to trust the process and think of steady progress instead of a set deadline.”

“When Melissa can make it through a whole class without spilling scents, it’s a major victory!”

“I honestly have no idea how Laura manages a house full of toddler chaos and dog training with such ease.”

“Brenda says to always be prepared for anything on our walks, even the possible need to make a quick getaway into the bushes!”

“Kim’s classes will keep you moving, laughing, and on your toes the whole time.”

• You use a special tone of voice to translate what your dog is thinking.

It’s dramatic and it’s high-pitched. Sometimes it’s in an accent! No matter how you say it, it’s how you think your dog would speak if they could! And you don’t even try to hide it anymore.

• You’ve wiped dog drool on your pants and called it “problem solved.”

Because carrying a towel is for people who haven’t accepted their fate.

If any of these apply to you, then you might be the type of dog person that would love to join a class at AWS. So, ready to train, laugh and connect with your fellow dog people? Join one of our upcoming classes. We’d love to have you!