Positively Pitties

A Pit Bull Terrier Education Program

Here at Dane County Humane Society there is no lack of love for one of the most misunderstood breeds. Owning a Pit Bull Terrier is a lot of responsibility because of their poor reputation with the media. Great diligence is needed in proper training to make your pittie an ambassador for the breed. Understanding the breed starts with learning about the breeds beginnings up to the roles they play in society today. We want to give you the knowledge and know how to communicate with your dog in order to show your community what great additions these canine citizens are.  

Robust, quick and brimming with vigor, pitties are intelligent clowns who want to please and are ever hopeful of being a lap dog. They tend to view the world as a giant playhouse and can be known as the perennial puppy enjoying games well into their old age. These good natured, loyal and affectionate dogs are obedient, eager to please which makes them easy to train. They have been known for aggression towards other dogs, but this can be avoided with proper training and socialization techniques for both you and your dog. 

We strive to make you and your companion such glowing ambassadors that you will inspire others to take a second look at the breed. As any loving owner knows “To know a pittie is to love a pittie”. Dane County Humane Society is here to help you spread to joy of owning such a loving companion.

Outline of Program

Our education program includes six sessions held for an hour and fifteen minutes each and are held on Mondays in our training room. We start each session with a short informative presentation on the breed and then follow with manners training for you and your companion.

Examples of topics covered are history of the breed, myths vs. facts, toys, resource lists, BSL, common behavior problems, and positive reinforcement training methods to motive you and your dog for success. Open discuss and questions are encouraged at the end of each session.

*Please note:  If your pup is less than 6 months old we strongly encourage you to find a puppy socialization class to attend for much needed playtime and learning!

Upcoming Sessions

Classes fill up quickly so register early!

• March 22 - April 26
• May 10 - June 21 (no class May 31)
• July 5 - August 9
• August 23 - October 4 (no class September 6)]
• October 18 - November 22

Registration and Fees

Download a registration form here

• DCHS Alumni: $50 *please bring proof of adoption with date adopted and former name
• Non-DCHS Alumni Dogs: $75

DCHS Members: Save $10!  Not a member? Check out the benefits on our website and join.

We accept cash, checks, or charge. DO NOT MAIL CASH. Please specify that your payment is for Positively Pitties if it is sent separately from your registration form and mark Attention: Jennifer Pratt. 

*Forms of payment will be cashed immediately upon arrive to confirm and hold your reservation. 

Cancellation Policy:  Refunds will be provided if cancellation notice is given at least 7 days prior to your first session.

Class Requirements

Your pittie needs to be up to date on appropriate vaccinations (rabies, distemper, and bordatella). All dogs must have a negative fecal test within the past six months. Spaying and neutering is highly recommended for all dogs. If your dog in not yet spayed or neutered, please ask about our low cost spay/neuter program specifically for pitties and pittie mixes. 

All dogs must be on proper leads. No retractable flexi leashes. Leashes 6 feet or less are acceptable.

Choke chains, prong collars or shock collars are not allowed in our class and are strongly discouraged from use in your home. We recommend and use Premiers Gentle Leader and Easy Walk Harness at our shelter. Please let us help you to find and fit the perfect training/walking aid for you.

Questions?

Contact the DCHS Training Coordinator at jpratt@giveshelter.org.