If you’re a new puppy parent, you may be wondering how to find a good puppy class. Here are some tips to help you choose the right class for your pup.
Start by researching different puppy classes in your area
Thinking about enrolling your puppy in puppy training classes? You’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of options available! Taking a good look around can help you find the class that’s perfect for you and your new best friend. Make sure to consider prices, availability and the qualifications of the instructors. It’s also important to read reviews and ask fellow puppy parents if they have any recommendations. With enough investigation, you’ll be sure to find a puppy training class that both you and your pup will love.
Ask around for recommendations from friends or family who have dogs
Asking around for recommendations from friends or family who have dogs is a great way to narrow down your search! Ask them about the puppy classes they’ve taken, types of dog trainers they’ve used, and what tips or advice they’d give before signing up for a puppy class. You may also get first-hand information that might steer you away from potential puppy classes that aren’t the best fit. Getting warm referrals and recommendations will help make it easier to find puppy classes that will be perfect for you and your pup!
Choose a rewards-based, positive reinforcement training class
Rewards-based dog training classes teach owners how to use positive reinforcement rather than punishment-based methods. All of the techniques are rooted in scientific research on animal behavior, ensuring that everyone learns the most effective and humane ways to train their canine companions. At Freak On A Leash for example, we emphasize rewards-based training that can be customized to your dog and situation. By teaching you how to recognize the behaviors your puppy is exhibiting, we are able to create a personalized plan for you to reach your training goals with far less stress than punishment-based options.
Once you’ve found a few classes that seem like a good fit, visit them in person to get a feel for the environment
Taking classes with your pup can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Why not make sure you’re making the most of it by taking the time to visit a few classes before signing up? Seeing a positive reinforcement training class in action can help you get a feel for what to expect, as well as allowing you to connect with potential instructors and inquire about their background and techniques. Take a few minutes to drop by a local positive reinforcement classes and ask questions. The instructor should be more than happy to talk to you afterward and help you decide if it’s the right fit!
Make sure the class is taught by a certified instructor and that the class size is small enough for individual attention
Make sure you’re enrolling your pup in a class that is taught by a certified instructor with a small enough class size to ensure everyone gets individual attention. Classes like this are important for puppies to develop good habits and start out on the right paw. Be sure the class your pup joins offers plenty of one-on-one guidance and instruction so their learning curve can be maximized. A puppy that receives early training will be far better behaved than one who hasn’t had the chance to go through a class, so it’s worth every effort to invest in training early on.
Make sure you and your pup are having fun!
Going to puppy classes can be a great way to make sure that you and your pup are having fun together. Puppies have high energy levels, so it is important to keep them engaged and entertained. Puppy classes will give your pup the chance to interact with other puppies their own age, as well as teaching them some crucial life lessons, like how to respond to your cues and practice reading the body language of other dogs. Puppy classes can be a great place for you and your puppy to get socialization and obedience training, plus lots of bonding opportunities through positive reinforcement activities! Having fun while learning is super important when it comes to dogs. Make sure you put pup first and join a quality puppy class!
Picking the right puppy class for you and your pup may seem overwhelming, but if you follow these steps, you should have no problem finding one that’s perfect for the two of you. Doing research and asking around is key, but visiting the classes in person to get a feel for their environment is important as well. Make sure the class is taught by a qualified instructor that uses positive reinforcement rather than punishment-based methods, with a small enough class sizes for individual attention. Most of all – make sure you and your pup are having fun with it!
Check out our very own puppy classes! Our experienced instructors use positive reinforcement methods to teach basic manners, obedience and socialization skills, helping prepare puppies for a lifetime of good habits. So take the plunge – sign up today!