Dog Obedience Schools – How To Pick The Right One For Your Dog
Anyone with a new dog knows that sometimes they need a little bit of guidance before he can be the perfect pet. But where do you look to find dog obedience schools that are a perfect fit for your pets personality? One place to start is local newspapers and shopping guides where you will probably find a variety of choices.
The methods for training your dog are almost too numerous to count, and they range from physical punishment-based methods to methods based on gentle reminders and positive reinforcement.
Many techniques exist that dog trainers have been using for years. However, recently many long time trainers are converting to a more positive approach.
Also, you need to think about your individual dog. What is his life history? Have you had him as a puppy or just recently acquired him as an adult? Also consider your training goals. Do you want him to be more family-friendly, a good hunting or show dog? Beyond basic obedience, consider what you’re hoping to get out of training.
How do you find good dog obedience schools? First, remember your dog’s personality and desirable goals and why you need a dog trainer in the first place. Search local newspapers, shoppers’ guides and the internet. Other dog owners will be happy to recommend a wonderful trainer. Local kennel clubs and your vet will also know of many reputable dog training schools.
Schools that train using positive reinforcement are going to yield the best results. Ask friends who they’d recommend. Some trainers will offer to come to make house visits to train your dog, but then he’ll be missing out on socialization opportunities with other canines. Locate the times of the beginner class and see if you can sit in just to watch; if you don’t like what you see, find someone else you do like!
It is a great a idea to sign your puppy up for a play group to ensure it has proper socialization. However, if you have a rescue dog with aggression issues you may need more than just a regular trainer. In this case, you may need a certified animal behaviorist. Be extra cautious with aggressive animals!
Although there is a small percentage of dogs that will require a pinch collar for training purposes, a “Gentle Leader” head collar is often just as, if not more, effective for most dogs.
It is not unusual for you to attend your first session without your dog accompanying you. This is a good indication that the trainer is a pro. Clicker training, a form of non punishment type training, necessitates a ‘train the trainer’ session so that you can learn the tools you will need to work with your dog successfully, without the distraction of your pet’s attendance.
Here’s how you can tell if a training class is good:
1. The schools tone will be happy and upbeat.
2. Training is based on offering your dog rewards during training is the key to reaching your desired goals, which along with praise, may include his favorite toy and doggie treats.
3. When a dog is misbehaving, sharp noise is typically enough for the dog to realize he’s done wrong. Punishment is kept to a minimum and the actions are usually suppressed.
4. The method of dealing with undesirable behavior is to give the dog a command that he can not achieve while engaged in said behavior. For example, command him to “sit” to stop him from jumping up on guests when they first enter your home.
5. Patience is a key element in any training session.
There are other methods to training your dog that you can use in addition to local dog obedience schools. Hollywood canines get their talent by way of “clicker training”, a very effective and efficient means of training dogs. If you want to review other methods, there are plenty of credible websites and training books available also.
Filed under: Training