Behind every successful service dog team is a network of dedicated volunteers who help guide dogs through the important stages of their training. From foster families to sitters and back-up handlers, these volunteers play a vital role in preparing service dogs for the work they will eventually do alongside a veteran.

Training Fundamentals 201 was created to help volunteers take the next step in understanding Puppy Jake Foundation’s training approach. As the second course in our volunteer education series, this three-week class focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to confidently handle a service dog in training.

Completion of Training Fundamentals 101 is required before enrolling in Training Fundamentals 201, ensuring participants already have a foundational understanding of Puppy Jake Foundation’s mission, program structure, and service dog standards.

Whether a volunteer is considering becoming a foster, supporting as a sitter, or assisting as a back-up handler, Training Fundamentals 201 provides valuable insight into the training methods that guide our program and help set dogs up for success.

Why Training Fundamentals 201 Matters

Handling a service dog in training involves more than simply spending time with a dog. It requires an understanding of how dogs learn, how to communicate clearly and safely, and how to support the training expectations that prepare dogs for public environments.

Training Fundamentals 201 helps volunteers build this foundation. Participants will gain practical knowledge about Puppy Jake’s training philosophy and learn how consistent handling helps service dogs develop the behaviors and reliability required for their future roles.

By strengthening volunteer knowledge and confidence, the class helps ensure that every dog in the program receives clear guidance and consistent training throughout their journey.

What You’ll Learn

Each week of the series focuses on a key element of service dog training and handling.

Week One: How Dogs Learn – Training Basics
The series begins with an overview of how dogs process information and learn new behaviors. Participants will explore the fundamentals of training, including how positive reinforcement supports skill development and helps shape reliable behaviors.

Week Two: Dog Handling Safety – Communicating with the Dogs
Clear communication and safe handling are essential when working with service dogs in training. This session focuses on reading canine body language, maintaining safe interactions, and developing handling techniques that support both the dog and the handler.

Week Three: Public Access Training
Service dogs must be prepared to work confidently in a wide range of public environments. In this final session, participants will learn about the expectations and standards that guide public access training and how volunteers help reinforce these skills during a dog’s development.

Session Details

Training Fundamentals 201 will take place on the following Mondays:

April 6, April 13, and April 20

6- 7 p.m. with Rhonda Stuhrenberg and Katie Peterson

Registration Information

To register for Training Fundamentals 201, visit:

https://caninecraze.dogbizpro.com/public/registration/events.aspx

Note: When registering and prompted to select a dog, please select “None.”

Training Fundamentals 201 is ideal for volunteers who are interested in becoming a foster, sitter, or back-up handlerfor a service dog in training. The course provides valuable knowledge for anyone who wants to play a more active role in helping prepare service dogs for the important work they will do alongside a veteran.

Through thoughtful training and the support of committed volunteers, Puppy Jake Foundation continues its mission of providing highly trained service dogs that help strengthen the relationship between a veteran and his or her dog.