How to choose a good puppy class

What constitutes a good puppy class?

Roy from RY Dogs give some sound advice on choosing an effective puppy class.

A well run puppy class can help you build solid foundations for you and your new addition, run poorly and it can create a number of behavioural issues, which can manifest in a variety of ways. So, what does constitute a well-run puppy class?

For the answer to this rather difficult and subjective question, I often refer people to Jo Croft’s (www.puppycoach.com and author of the Puppy Coach, 2017, Matador Books) advice on the subject. She suggests a number of variables that make up what could be considered to be a good class, these include:

1.      A safe indoor or well fenced outdoor environment. Safety is a key aspect, especially when there is a flight risk with young puppies.

2.      Good experienced, qualified instructors. Contrary to some beliefs, training puppies can be a highly specialised area and not an area for inexperienced trainers to cut their teeth on.

3.      Small class sizes (no more that 3 or 4 dogs per instructor). Many more than this can lead to lack of concentration for both pup and owner.

4.      Detail on training methods. Modern day methods allow for positive reward-based training only, ensure you check out the methods used before attending

5.      Supporting advice to implement once you leave the training session. Training classes are often weekly, so ensure you have been given enough things to do from one week to the next.

6.      New exercises to practise each week. Some pups will quickly grasp any tasks set, so to avoid boredom setting into your training you should be given new exercises to help facilitate your progress.

7.      Advice on socialisation. Your trainer should have the knowledge to correctly advise you an a key aspect of your puppy’s development, socialisation.

8.      Short interactive/controlled play sessions. A good class will match up puppies according to size, age and temperament.

9.      Good obedience instruction. You will need to be expertly advised as to the course of action in terms of maintaining good obedience.

10.  Consistency and continuity. Important that regular times and location from the same instructor, clear lesson plans with class objectives clearly defined.

I would further advise not to choose a class just because it seems to be what everyone seems to do. You will know your puppy and know how nervous or gregarious they are. If this is the case, ensure you get some professional assistance at the class. If you fail to get this or just don’t feel right, don’t be afraid to walk away, there are alternatives (1-2-1 sessions). Try to get feedback from people who have previously taken part in classes or ask if you can witness a class in progress. Most of all, you should feel comfortable with the environment, it should feel safe and relaxed. You and your puppy should come away from all lessons with a positive learning experience.

Roy Young BCCSDip.AdvCanBhv