One of the most stressful decisions to make after bringing a puppy home is choosing a dog obedience school. Good training early can make the difference between a happy, healthy relationship with your dog and a lifelong struggle with behavioral issues. When choosing a school, be sure to pick one that is in line with your own natural style of training, as much of the instruction is geared toward humans as well as their dogs. The first few weeks with a new dog are crucial to the bonding process, and a good dog obedience school will lay a foundation you will build upon for years to come.
You should begin your hunt for the right school by speaking to fellow dog owners and veterinarians. The local dog park is a great place to solicit recommendations regarding schools and trainers. Your veterinarian's office or the local clinic is another great source of information. Your vet's office may have an official recommendation, but you should also ask the staff for their personal experiences with trainers in the area. In cities or towns with a large population of dog owners, online discussion boards may be the best way of reaching people.
When you have narrowed down the possibilities, contact the schools and request an interview. Good schools are typically accommodating in this request and understand the importance of a pet owner's comfort with trainers. Discuss the training methods the school endorses. Ask them for references and speak with the actual trainers who would be working with you and your dog. The facilities are important, so be sure to take a tour during your visit.
Do some research into some of the characteristics common to your dog's breed. Breed and age can determine how successful training attempts will be with your dog, and it is important to know what to expect. Younger dogs often benefit the most from group classes, as they tend to be quick learners and may need some help with socialization. Older dogs or those who have had behavior issues in the past may require more intensive one-on-one training. If you have a breed that is notoriously difficult to train, you may find breed specific classes and training methods.
Cost may also be a factor in deciding which type of class is feasible for your dog. The average dog obedience school cost differs greatly based on the area in which you live. A series of group lessons can cost anywhere from $40-$200 depending on your area and the reputation of the trainer. Individual hour-long classes typically begin at $25 with prices extending past the $100 mark. Training is important, and if the cost of dog obedience school in your area is prohibitive, you should speak to local non-profit animal welfare agencies and inquire about taking classes for a reduced rate.
After you have selected a school and are preparing for your first class, an owner should know what to expect. The typical curriculum at a good dog obedience school will teach housebreaking for young puppies, and basic commands like "Sit" and "Stay." Few teach tricks, especially those geared toward younger dogs, but they will help teach you the communication skills to continue training at home. Dog obedience school can be the first step to establishing trust between dogs and people, which is so important in the end. - 31866
You should begin your hunt for the right school by speaking to fellow dog owners and veterinarians. The local dog park is a great place to solicit recommendations regarding schools and trainers. Your veterinarian's office or the local clinic is another great source of information. Your vet's office may have an official recommendation, but you should also ask the staff for their personal experiences with trainers in the area. In cities or towns with a large population of dog owners, online discussion boards may be the best way of reaching people.
When you have narrowed down the possibilities, contact the schools and request an interview. Good schools are typically accommodating in this request and understand the importance of a pet owner's comfort with trainers. Discuss the training methods the school endorses. Ask them for references and speak with the actual trainers who would be working with you and your dog. The facilities are important, so be sure to take a tour during your visit.
Do some research into some of the characteristics common to your dog's breed. Breed and age can determine how successful training attempts will be with your dog, and it is important to know what to expect. Younger dogs often benefit the most from group classes, as they tend to be quick learners and may need some help with socialization. Older dogs or those who have had behavior issues in the past may require more intensive one-on-one training. If you have a breed that is notoriously difficult to train, you may find breed specific classes and training methods.
Cost may also be a factor in deciding which type of class is feasible for your dog. The average dog obedience school cost differs greatly based on the area in which you live. A series of group lessons can cost anywhere from $40-$200 depending on your area and the reputation of the trainer. Individual hour-long classes typically begin at $25 with prices extending past the $100 mark. Training is important, and if the cost of dog obedience school in your area is prohibitive, you should speak to local non-profit animal welfare agencies and inquire about taking classes for a reduced rate.
After you have selected a school and are preparing for your first class, an owner should know what to expect. The typical curriculum at a good dog obedience school will teach housebreaking for young puppies, and basic commands like "Sit" and "Stay." Few teach tricks, especially those geared toward younger dogs, but they will help teach you the communication skills to continue training at home. Dog obedience school can be the first step to establishing trust between dogs and people, which is so important in the end. - 31866
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