An old wives' tale has it that dogs aren't ready for training until six months of age, but that's far too long to wait, especially in the case of the wily pug. Your pug pup is capable of learning basic commands at the tender age of eight weeks. The earlier you begin training him, the more successful you'll be. In puppy kindergarten, you'll learn positive reinforcement techniques that will help you maintain a modicum of control over your new pug. The most important benefits your pug should take away from puppy kindergarten are increased confidence and an enjoyable experience.

What You'll Learn

Puppy kindergarten teaches the basics — sit, down, come, stay, off, and walk nicely on a leash — in a fun, positive fashion. While your pug pup is learning these must-know behaviors, you'll be learning how to communicate effectively with him. In a typical class, the instructor will show you how to train your dog and watch you practice in the class setting. Your homework will be to practice what you've learned in the week following class and to demonstrate it at the next session.

A good puppy kindergarten trainer will also help you deal with typical puppy behaviors such as barking, chewing, digging, jumping up on people (something you'll probably never break a pug of), play biting, and stealing food or trash (another lifelong struggle). In addition, your trainer may cover such issues as spaying, neutering, grooming, health care, safety, and tattooing or microchipping for identification.

What to Look For

Most puppy kindergarten classes require dogs to be at least ten weeks old and not more than six months old. Your pug must be vaccinated and flea-free before attending class. Most trainers will ask you to bring written proof of distemper and parvo vaccinations.

The puppy kindergarten class you choose should have a manageable number of people and puppies. Avoid one that seems too crowded. The trainer should have time to give you and your pug (and everyone else) individual attention during each class period.

Most puppy kindergarten classes allow a period of free play for all the pups. Look for a class that divides puppies by size during playtime. Dogs play rough, and it's all too easy for a big dog to injure a small one without meaning any harm.