Immediately after bringing a dog into your home, you should consider enrolling her in a dog obedience school. The earlier you and your puppy go through a training program the better, as it will smooth the adjustment and help with the bonding and socialization process. Remember that you will be attending classes with your dog, so choose a school that provides a teaching style and environment that puts you both at ease. Establishing a good relationship with your dog early will set the tone for the rest of your time together, and give you the tools for a long and happy friendship.
A great first step toward finding a school in your area is soliciting recommendations from other dog owners and veterinarians. Talk to people at your park about their experiences with the companion dog obedience school they used. Ask the staff at your local veterinary clinic if there are any particular schools that they have used personally or that have been recommended by clients. In high population areas, search the internet for local obedience school rankings.
Compile the information into a list of possible companion dog obedience schools and arrange visits to each of them. Speak to the administrators and trainers to get a sense of the methods they employ and the average class size. Many schools will provide client references upon request, and it would be a good idea to contact past clients for more information. Take the time to tour the facilities while you are there- well-kept grounds are good indicators of a quality program.
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. - 29895
A great first step toward finding a school in your area is soliciting recommendations from other dog owners and veterinarians. Talk to people at your park about their experiences with the companion dog obedience school they used. Ask the staff at your local veterinary clinic if there are any particular schools that they have used personally or that have been recommended by clients. In high population areas, search the internet for local obedience school rankings.
Compile the information into a list of possible companion dog obedience schools and arrange visits to each of them. Speak to the administrators and trainers to get a sense of the methods they employ and the average class size. Many schools will provide client references upon request, and it would be a good idea to contact past clients for more information. Take the time to tour the facilities while you are there- well-kept grounds are good indicators of a quality program.
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. - 29895
About the Author:
If you'd like to learn more about finding and choosing a dog obedience school, head on over to DogTipsDaily.com today. Dog Tips Daily has lots of helpful tips and how-to's on raising and caring for a well-behaved and happy dog.
