Tweeners Class
Tweeners Class: For adolescent dogs navigating the big feelings and big changes of growing up
If your sweet puppy has recently turned into a wild teenager seemingly overnight—jumping, barking, ignoring cues they definitely knew last week—you’re not alone. Welcome to the Tweeners phase!
This class is designed specifically for dogs in their adolescent stage (generally 5 to 18 months), a time marked by big brain changes, bigger emotions, and a sometimes baffling lack of impulse control. We’ll help you understand what’s happening under the surface and guide you and your dog through this transitional life stage with empathy, connection, and science-based training.
Each week, we’ll work on foundational skills (like recall, polite greetings, and stationing) while building emotional regulation, motivation, and connection between you and your dog. We’ll use concepts to support your dog’s whole-being development—not just obedience. And we’ll keep things light, fun, and rewarding for everyone (because adolescent dogs aren’t the only ones who get overwhelmed).
Expect games, enrichment, movement, sniffing, and lots of reinforcement. We’ll talk about breed tendencies, behavior changes, and how to work with your dog’s unique personality instead of fighting against it. You'll leave with a better understanding of your dog's brain, new tools for navigating tricky moments, and a deeper bond with your four-legged teen.
This class is for:
Adolescent dogs (approx. 5–18 months) or soon to be adolescent dogs
Guardians ready to learn, play, and support their pups through the messy middle
Let’s make growing up a little easier for both ends of the leash.
Schedule
Tuesdays 5-6pm
April 28, May 5, 12 & 19th
or
Saturdays from 1-2pm
May 16, 23, 30 & June 6th
Location
2300 Myrtle Ave Suite 220, St. Paul, MN
Important information for dog training classes:
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Click here to review CIC’s Participant Accident Waiver and Release of Liability form.
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For puppy class:
Puppies of all ages will need to have started their DA2PP (or equivalent) vaccine series before beginning class, ideally 7 days prior to the first day of class. We strongly encourage you to discuss other vaccines with your veterinarian, including but not limited to, Bordetella, Leptospirosis, and Canine Influenza before starting class.
Puppies 16 weeks and older are required to have their Bordetella and Rabies vaccine.
For all other training classes:
Dogs 16 weeks of age and older are required to have their DA2PP(or equivalent), Bordetella, and rabies. We strongly encourage discussing other vaccinations with your veterinarian, including but not limited to leptospirosis, canine influenza, lyme.
Proof of vaccinations are not required to be submitted before the start of class, however CIC may request records at anytime.
Dogs completing Therapy Dog training are required to complete an Annual Health form, click to view all required veterinary items.
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Training class participants may receive a full or partial refund if they are no longer able to
participate in class. Refund requests must be made via email to Taylor at taylor@canineinspiredchange.org.
Request received prior to the first day of class:
7 or more days: Full refund of enrollment fee; or transfer payment to future class
6 - 3 days: Partial refund of enrollment fee minus $25; or transfer payment to future class
2 or less days: Partial refund of enrollment fee minus $50; or transfer payment to future class
Withdrawal after class session has started: Transfer payment to future class
Training teams that are unable to complete a training class due to trainer recommendation may receive a full refund based on trainer and CIC staff discretion.
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Each training class will have different recommendations for training tools, treats, and equipment. CIC will reach out to you about 1 week before the start of your class with more information and what to expect. If you did not receive this email, check your spam folder.
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We offer financial assistance for both private training and training classes. Scholarships are available to help cover part or all of your training. Click here to apply!