Professional Puppy Training That Sets the Foundation for Life

Welcome to Paws & Applause, Maryville's premier destination for professional puppy training classes. As a NePoPo® Graduate, I understand that the first few months of your puppy's life are crucial for developing good behaviors, social skills, and a strong bond with you.

Why Puppy Training Classes Are Essential

The period between 8-16 weeks is known as the "critical socialization window" – the time when puppies are most receptive to new experiences. Professional puppy training during this time:

  • Prevents future behavior problems
  • Builds confidence in your puppy
  • Teaches proper socialization with dogs and people
  • Establishes good habits early
  • Strengthens the human-puppy bond
  • Makes adult training easier and more effective

Our Puppy Training Programs

🐾 Puppy Kindergarten (8-16 weeks)

Our most popular program for brand new puppy parents! This 6-week course covers:

  • Safe, supervised puppy play sessions
  • Introduction to basic commands (sit, down, come)
  • Proper socialization techniques
  • Bite inhibition training
  • House training tips and techniques
  • Handling and grooming acceptance
  • Introduction to leash walking

🎓 Basic Puppy Obedience (4-6 months)

For puppies who have completed kindergarten or are slightly older. This 8-week course includes:

  • Advanced command training (stay, heel, leave it)
  • Distraction training
  • Proper leash manners
  • Impulse control exercises
  • Coming when called (recall training)
  • Polite greetings with people and dogs
  • Introduction to off-leash skills

What Makes Our Puppy Classes Special?

Small Class Sizes

Maximum 6 puppies per class ensures individual attention and safe interactions.

NePoPo® Methods

Science-based training that builds confidence through positive reinforcement and clear communication.

Real-World Focus

Training that works at home, not just in class. We teach practical skills for everyday life.

Family Involvement

All family members welcome! We teach everyone how to be consistent with training.

Class Schedule & Structure

Class Duration: 1 hour per session

Frequency: Once weekly

Days Available: Tuesday evenings, Thursday evenings, Saturday mornings

Location: 7337 Tomotley Road, Maryville, TN

What to Bring: Small training treats, 6-foot leash, flat collar, vaccination records

Investment in Your Puppy's Future

Puppy Day Program

$80 / day

3 days per week · 4-week minimum

  • Foundation obedience & impulse control
  • Structured puppy socialization
  • Crate & place training
  • Take-home training plan with David
  • Roughly $960 minimum for the foundation block

See full pricing & details →

Success Stories from Our Puppy Graduates

"We started with David when our Golden Retriever was just 9 weeks old. The puppy kindergarten class was amazing! Not only did Bear learn basic commands, but he's now the most well-adjusted, confident dog. The socialization was invaluable!"

- Jennifer M., Maryville

"As first-time puppy parents, we were overwhelmed. David's classes gave us the tools and confidence we needed. Our Lab puppy graduated knowing all basic commands and has great manners. Worth every penny!"

- Robert & Susan K., Alcoa