Puppy Pre-School
Setting the Foundations Early
A Supportive Start for Puppies and Their People
The early weeks with a new puppy can be exciting and overwhelming. Questions come thick and fast, routines are still forming, and it’s not always clear what’s “normal” behaviour and what needs guidance.
Our Puppy Pre-School exists to support both puppies and owners through this crucial early stage. Run by a qualified veterinary nurse, the program focuses on early socialisation, gentle training and practical education all in a safe, controlled environment.
Classes are designed for puppies aged 8 to 14 weeks, when learning is easiest, and confidence is still forming. We keep group sizes small, use positive reinforcement throughout, and create space for owners to ask questions and learn alongside their puppy.
“Good behaviour doesn’t come from pressure, it comes from understanding, consistency and confidence.”
What to Expect from the Program
Puppy Pre-School runs over four weekly sessions, gradually building skills and giving puppies time to learn, rest, and adjust.
Each session covers a mix of puppy development and owner education, including socialisation, basic obedience, house training, handling and grooming, and everyday care topics such as exercise needs, flea prevention, dental health, and what to do in an emergency.
Classes are interactive and practical, with time set aside to address common concerns and individual challenges. Because the program is run within a veterinary hospital, guidance is grounded in real-world puppy health and behaviour, not one-size-fits-all advice.
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s confidence, connection and a calmer start to life together.
Before, During and After Class
Puppies attending Puppy Pre-School must have received at least their first vaccination (C3 minimum, C5 recommended). If your puppy wasn’t vaccinated with us, we’ll need to see their vaccination certificate at the first session.
Classes are held on Saturday mornings at our Cranbourne hospital. Sessions run in our outdoor, custom puppy school training area.
We recommend bringing your puppy on a lead, wearing a comfortable collar, and avoiding feeding just before class so they’re more responsive to treats. If your puppy feels unsure at first, that’s okay – everything is introduced gently and at their pace. All puppies receive an Adaptil junior collar at the first class. This collar helps reduce puppy anxiety and aids in their learning at Puppy Pre-School.
If you’ve recently welcomed a puppy into your family and want guidance that feels supportive, practical and grounded in veterinary care, our Puppy Pre-School is here to help you start well – together.
Our Services
Trusted Veterinary Services All Under One Roof
Your pet’s care is supported by a highly experienced team who provide everything from routine check ups and preventative care, to advanced diagnostics, surgery and dentistry. We take a careful, thorough approach to every case and keep you informed at each step, so your pet receives reliable, compassionate care throughout their life.
Whether your pet needs everyday health support, or help with a more complex condition, our team work together to provide clear answers and thoughtful treatment in a calm, modern hospital.
PET EDUCATION AND RESOURCES
Practical advice and real case stories to support your pet’s care.
Pet Care Articles
Helpful tips and expert guidance to support your pet’s health and everyday well-being.
Real Life Case Studies
Real stories from our veterinary team showing how we diagnose, treat and support pets through illness and recovery.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
How old should my puppy be to attend Puppy Pre-School?
Puppies should be between eight and 14 weeks old. This age range allows puppies to learn alongside others at a similar stage and feel comfortable in class.
Do I need to be a client of the clinic to attend Puppy Pre-School?
No. Anyone is welcome to attend Puppy Pre-School, even if you don’t normally visit our clinic.
What if my puppy is shy or nervous?
That’s very common. Classes are kept small and calm, and we move at a pace that suits each puppy.
What will my puppy learn at Puppy Pre-School?
We focus on early socialisation, basic obedience, house-training foundations, calm handling, grooming familiarity, and everyday life skills.
Do you see puppies from outside Cranbourne?
Yes. We regularly welcome puppies from Cranbourne West, Cranbourne South, Clyde, Lynbrook and surrounding suburbs.
How do I book Puppy Pre-School?
Places are limited and fill quickly. Please call our team to reserve a spot. Payment is required at the time of booking.
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Contact Info
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 8:00am –
7:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 3:00pm
Sunday: CLOSED
Closed on public holidays
For all out-of-hours emergencies,
please contact Veterinary Referral Hospital (VRH) on 1300 385 874
or Casey Pet Emergency on (03) 8790 1625.