Puppy Preschool at Central Bark, Parnell
Give your puppy the best start in life with kind, practical puppy training at Pets In The City Parnell. Puppy Classes are back at Central Bark from 26 July, led by experienced puppy trainer Madeleine de Vrije.
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What your puppy will learn
- Confidence around new people, dogs and environments
- Calm, polite behaviour at home and out in the world
- Practical foundations for recall, focus and loose-lead walking
- Healthy boundaries and everyday manners
- Positive handling and settling skills
- Socialisation done safely and thoughtfully
Meet your trainer: Madeleine de Vrije
Madeleine de Vrije has worked professionally with puppies and their families since 2020. She became Head Puppy Trainer in 2021 and has since guided approximately 3,500 puppies and their owners through the early stages of development. Her approach is practical, realistic and family-friendly, focused on sustainable boundaries that fit naturally into each household.
Why Puppy Preschool matters
The early months of your puppy's life shape how they experience the world. Puppy Preschool gives you a safe, structured environment to ask questions, practise skills and understand what your puppy is trying to tell you. It is not just about training commands — it is about raising a puppy who can cope with everyday life.
Class location
Pets In The City Parnell — Central Bark, 99 Saint Georges Bay Road, Parnell, Auckland. Puppy Classes return from 26 July and spaces are limited.
Frequently asked questions
When do Puppy Classes start?
Puppy Classes at Central Bark are back from 26 July. You can view current availability and book online.
Where are the classes held?
Classes are held at Pets In The City Parnell, also known as Central Bark, at 99 Saint Georges Bay Road, Parnell.
Who runs the Puppy Preschool Class?
The class is led by Madeleine de Vrije, an experienced puppy trainer who has helped approximately 3,500 puppies and their owners.
Is the training force-free?
Yes. Pets In The City uses kind, reward-based, force-free training. We do not use fear, harsh tools or punishment.
How do I book?
You can book online at https://PITCTraining.as.me/classes.
Key terms
Puppy Preschool is defined as a kind, force-free class series for new puppies and their owners. It builds confidence, manners and early-life skills.
Force-free training refers to teaching that uses rewards, trust and calm handling. It never uses fear, pain or harsh tools.
Socialisation is defined as safely introducing a puppy to new people, dogs and places so they grow into a confident, settled dog.
By the numbers
- Started in Auckland in 2006 — 19+ years of pet care
- 5 Auckland centres: Parnell Central Bark, Mt Wellington, Silverdale, Wairau Park and Westgate
- Open 7 days for daycare, hotel stays, grooming and tours
- Every staff member uses kind, force-free care, every day
Book Puppy Preschool Visit Central Bark
Our Services
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About & Help
Pets In The City — Auckland's premier pet care since 2006, with 5 Auckland locations open 7 days. Email hello@petsinthecity.co.nz.