Basic Obedience Training for Puppies: Where to Start

Introduction

• Bringing home a new puppy is exciting but overwhelming.
• Essential to set the right behaviors and expectations during puppyhood.
• Starts with puppy obedience training.

Choosing the Right Training Method

• Factors to consider:
  • Distance and convenience of classes.
  • Training methods and class fit.
  • Instructor's personality and qualifications.
  • Socialization opportunities and personal training options.

Puppy Training Options

Home vs. Group Classes

• Home Training:
  • Focus on personalized training needs.
  • Ideal in remote areas with no training schools.
• Group Classes:
  • Helps puppies focus amid distractions.
  • Encourages socialization.

Selecting an Instructor

• Observe classes to ensure comfort and safety.
• Look for positive reinforcement training.
• Evaluate the environment: Dogs should appear happy and relaxed.
• Comfort in the training setting is crucial for success.

Trainer vs. Behaviorist

• Trainers: Address symptoms, can be certified.
• Behaviorists: Diagnose underlying causes, may refer to trainers.
• Ensure digital training tools are from credentialed sources.

Types of Obedience Classes

• Puppy Classes: Start from 8 weeks old.
• Progress through AKC STAR Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, and advanced classes.
• Sports Classes: Agility, Rally, and Flyball for advanced learning and competition.

Using Training Apps

• Apps provide additional training resources and schedule flexibility.
• Features of a good training app:
  • Bite-sized lessons.
  • Information on behavior, socialization, and body language.
  • Access to live trainers for guidance.

Common Training Problems

• Acceptable dog behaviors may not suit humans.
• Consistency in rules and rewarding positive behavior is important.
• Dogs must learn acceptable human behaviors.

Finding a Dog Trainer

• Use AKC Training Clubs and CGC Evaluators.
• Seek recommendations from owners of well-behaved dogs you observe.

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