NANJING -- A school to teach pet dogs how to behave properly has opened in Wuxi city, in east China's Jiangsu Province, but the high cost of tuition has sent many pet owners on average incomes scurrying for cover.

According to Zhu Min, boss of the training school, dogs will be taught to sit, stand and lie down in a "civilized" way, and be trained not to bark at or spring on approaching strangers.

"For example, we train dogs to sit and walk on the left side of their owners. It is easier for the owners to take care of the dogs and to avoid causing trouble to passers-by," Zhu said.

The monthly tuition fee ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 yuan (US$385-641), and the duration of training depends on the pooch's age and temperament.

So far the school has not been a barking success among pet owners because the tuition fees are considerably higher than the average citizen's monthly income. "It's too extravagant to send pets to such a school," said a local resident called Wu.

But some people believe it's better to pay for tuition rather than pay medical costs if their pets accidentally bite someone.

So far, 10 pet dogs have received or are receiving training courses in the school.