AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Training Program
Foundational Training Designed Just for Puppies Under 6 Months
At K9s Place, we believe early training and socialization are essential for raising confident, well-mannered dogs. Our AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program, taught by certified AKC CGC evaluators, gives young puppies the structure and skills they need during their most important developmental stages. Upon completion, puppies are eligible to earn the official AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy title, which is added to their AKC record.
This program is offered exclusively as a complete package that includes 6 Play and Learn sessions followed by 6 S.T.A.R. Puppy group classes. It is available only to puppies under 6 months old.
Schedule your pup's Training Evaluation Today
Why Early Puppy Training Matters
The first year of a dog’s life shapes everything—from behavior and confidence to how easily they learn new skills. Puppies between 12 weeks and one year old are in their most critical period of growth. Starting training early helps:
- Prevent unwanted behaviors before they become habits
- Build confidence around people, other dogs, and new environments
- Strengthen communication and trust between owner and puppy
- Prepare for future obedience and advanced training
- Support healthy mental and emotional development
- A strong start sets the tone for a well-mannered, balanced adult dog.
Program Structure
Step 1: Puppy Play and Learn (PAL)
Puppies may begin PAL as early as 8 weeks of age.
PAL is a training-focused socialization program tailored for young puppies. It provides controlled exposure, guided play, and positive reinforcement to build strong early habits. Each session supports healthy development and prepares puppies for future training success. PAL sessions include:
- Supervised socialization with other puppies
- Exposure to new environments, textures, sounds, and objects
- Confidence building exercises
- Crate training practice and routine building
- Reinforcement of manners and early obedience skills
By completing all six PAL sessions, puppies enter group training more confident, focused, and ready to learn.
Step 2: AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Group Classes
After completing PAL, puppies move into our 6-week S.T.A.R. Puppy group class series. These classes teach essential foundation skills that support long-term obedience and successful behavior. Puppies learn:
- Sit
- Down
- Stay
- Come when called
- Loose leash walking
- Name recognition
- Calm behavior around distractions
- Appropriate interactions with other dogs and people
Owners receive guidance on reinforcing training at home, preventing problem behaviors, and supporting their puppy’s progress. Puppies must attend all six classes to qualify for the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy test and title.
Program Price
The S.T.A.R. Puppy Program includes:
- 6 Puppy Play and Learn sessions
- 6 AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy group classes
Total cost: $499
Group classes begin only after all Play and Learn sessions are completed.
Why Enroll Your Puppy at K9s Place
Early puppy training builds the foundation for a well-mannered, confident, and social adult dog. Combining socialization with structured training helps puppies learn more quickly, adapt more easily, and develop good habits that last a lifetime.
K9s Place provides a safe, positive, and professional environment where every puppy receives hands-on guidance tailored to their developmental needs. Our structured approach ensures consistency, clarity, and the repetition puppies need to succeed.
Give your puppy the strongest possible start with the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program at K9s Place. Spaces are limited to ensure high-quality instruction and individual support.
Contact us today to reserve your spot and begin your puppy’s training journey.
