[Terrie]

I cannot express how I excited I am to take Lexi to school! This will be our first time in a puppy class and I want to be prepared. (I tend to be a very good student in college and I want Lexi to be top of her class too).

I had an idea but I need some feedback on whether it is a good idea or not.

So my idea: The classes take place in a park. This park is huge and has different sections including the dog park, we regularly visit. So I thought it would be ideal to take Lexi to the dog park about 30 minutes or so before class, so she can release some energy and such. I think it will allow her to be more focused in class and she will be over the whole let's greet everyone thing. I could also do some warm-up training before class starts and such.

What do you guys think?

Also the trainer told us to bring treats/water/poop bags. Is there anything else I should consider taking to class? Besides the pup of course!

I'm so excited! Thanks for reading!!!

[Cracker]

If she is already familiar with the dog park and it is a safe thing then YES, getting rid of some of her zoomies is a great idea.
Be patient with Lexi too...no pressure to "do well", learning in puppies has to be fun and it is important to realize that they get distracted, frustrated and overexcited many times in class situations to take lots of little breaks and don't get frustrated if she doesn't "get" something right off the bat. The class is to teach YOU how to teach her, not for HER to get an A+. Make sure you do your homework and make training a lot of fun for her. Also, ask lots of questions when the trainer asks for them, don't be shy, it's almost guaranteed that anything that comes up for you will or has already come up for the other handlers as well. The trainer can be a great resource for puppy problem solving.
Take a regular leash (not a flexi lead), make sure the treats are really small and REALLY special and have fun!