Raising Puppies

Get References

If you have friends with well-behaved dogs, ask them where they got their training. Ask your veterinarian, pet sitter, or groomer for referrals.

Observe a Class

A good instructor will welcome you to sit in and observe a class (without your puppy, of course). The class should be well organized. The instructor should be friendly but firm enough to keep the class under control and safe for people and puppies alike.

There should be a good ratio of instructors and assistants to students. That will vary depending on the area and types of dogs in the class, but in general, you should be able to see that each student is getting individualized attention.

Students and puppies should enjoy the classes. Training classes should be fun, not stern, boot camp drill exercises. Sure, occasionally owners will get frustrated, but a good instructor will motivate students to encourage their puppies, rather than get angry with them.

Instructors should do a good job of explaining and demonstrating the exercises. Does he leave time for questions? Look for a trainer who treats his clients with respect and courtesy.

A good instructor will send home quality written materials so that students will have a better understanding of the exercises and be able to work on them at home. Do the students receive written handouts or homework? Are they clear and easy to understand?
Take your time to find the right class. Think about the teachers who made a difference in your life. You want a trainer who will make a difference in the life of you and your puppy, together.

Training a puppy can be great fun as you watch the lightbulb in her puppy brain go off and she begins to understand what you want. Don't let the fun end with puppyhood, though. If you don't keep up with training, you may find your puppy relaxing her behaviors or starting some undesirable ones. Just start your training sessions again so that both of you stay in practice. You may find that you want to continue teaching your puppy more and more!