We have an 8 week old puppy and want to enroll him in puppy classes and then dog obedience classes. Which do you think is better…group classes or in-home, private dog training?
July 25, 2009
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Puppies have a critical period for learning and your pup is in that stage. From weeks 3-12, a dog is most receptive to learning so make sure you get to that puppy training right away. You’re also in the critical housebreaking period which falls between 7 and 9 weeks so I hope you are working on that as well.
Puppies and dogs benefit from both group obedience training and private training and which type of dog training is best depends on the nature of the dog, the level of commitment from the owner and your budget.
For puppies, we favor group training initially because group puppy classes add the benefit of socialization. Meeting many new people and other dogs is so important to rearing a behaviorally healthy puppy. Look for a very small class though, many puppy owners tell us that they don’t get the attention they need in group classes as there are too many attendees.
Private, in-home dog training is ideal for targeting specific problems and for increasing the level of time and attention spent on you and your pup. Many people do both so that they get the best of both worlds.
Whatever you decide, good for you to be thinking about your puppy training now. Don’t wait too much longer though or you’ll miss the window of opportunity for the easiest and most effective training for your pet.
Enjoy your new puppy!
Comment by Paws in Training Editor — July 25, 2009 @ 6:23 am
Ut-Oh, we are really struggling with our puppy’s housebreaking and it looks like we are running out of time. Can we learn this in group puppy training?
Comment by Tammy and Scott — July 26, 2009 @ 6:29 am
Tammy and Scott- housebreaking a puppy can be challenging, especially if both dog parents work full time. The process can be completed in two to three weeks if it’s done with consistency and attention to critical details.
We have not heard of a puppy training class that addresses this situation specifically but we’ll keep our ears open. There are a number of excellent group classes in the Raleigh area as well as private, in-home dog trainers. To address this particular problem, an in-home dog trainer is probably going to be your best bet. Please contact one of our dog trainers for an in-home dog training consultation and if you’d prefer a group training class, we’d be happy to give you a local referral.
Comment by Paws in Training Editor — July 26, 2009 @ 8:38 am
What age should my puppy start obedience training?
Comment by Ellen — August 15, 2009 @ 4:22 pm
Ellen- Excellent question, thanks for asking. Dog training should commence the minute your new puppy crosses the threshold of your home. He or she will have to learn how to live in your home and what the house rules are so it’s best to start that process immediately. You’ll want to also ensure that you’re socializing your puppy daily. As far as formal training goes, 10 weeks is ideal to begin as they are little sponges at this age and formal training now not only helps them with their manners, it sets them up to learn for life. Look for a good puppy class or start with in-home, private training.
Comment by admin — August 15, 2009 @ 6:41 pm