Raising Puppies

Not all obedience classes are alike. It's important to do your research and find a good class with a knowledgeable instructor. You don't want your impressionable puppy to have a bad experience. Here are some tips on how to find the right class for you and your family.

Interview the Instructor

Make sure that the instructor thoroughly understands the science of learning theory and canine behavior. Modern training techniques do not require the use of aversives, physical punishment, or harsh tools. The instructor should be very knowledgeable but able to teach you what he knows without using jargon or confusing terms. He should be a good educator of people, not just of dogs.

Ask for the trainer's credentials. If the instructor says that he is a "Master Dog Trainer" or "Certified Trainer," where did he earn the designation? Was it from one training school or from a professionally moderated national certification program? If the instructor says that he is a "behaviorist," ask exactly what training and education went into the title. The program for certified applied animal behaviorists (www.animalbehavior.org) is very stringent and requires specific educational and scientific credentials. A dog trainer who specializes in specific behavior issues is not the same as