Dog Obedience Classes - Are They Better Than Private Dog Training?

If you are trying to decide whether you should take private dog training or enroll in dog obedience classes, congratulations. You have already made the most important decision that you need to train your dog. Actually, both you and your dog will be in training together, because the goal will be for the two of you to learn to communicate and respond to each other. So will the two of you be better off with individual training or in training classes with a group? Here are a few things to consider.

First, consider the cost. Group dog training classes usually are less expensive than one-on-one dog training. Sometimes the only research you will need to do is find out how much each option costs. If the cost of private dog training is out of your budget, then you job will be to find the best classes that are available in your area.

Next, time is a factor. Are the group classes offered at a time that fits into your work and family schedule? Or do you need to be able to custom schedule your training classes to fit around work, school or family events?

If you're looking for group puppy classes, they need to be offered before your puppy grows too old for them. And if you're looking for obedience training classes in order to enter competitions, will the timing fit? Schedules for classes are more rigid. Individual classes can usually be arranged to fit around your schedule.

If you need to address special issues like dog aggression, obedience problems, training an adult dog or learning dog training hand signals, individual attention might help. With fewer distractions from other people and other dogs, both you and your dog may be better able to concentrate, which could significantly speed up the learning process.

But there is one situation where dog obedience classes are a better choice than private dog training. If your dog needs to be socialized with other dogs and other people, a controlled class situation with a professional dog trainer will accomplish that goal. You will both get the training that you need to learn how to successfully handle being around other dogs and strangers.

And you will be able to practice what you learn in an environment where a skilled trainer can keep you from making unnecessary mistakes, or from learning behavioral habits that can cause more harm than good. You might also make some new life long friends.

Kevin Highfill writes about pets and pet related topics at http://www.online4pets.com/.

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