Training your puppy is not only a rewarding aspect of dog ownership for both you and your dog, but it also enforces a good owner bond. You may have started to master the basics at home such as toilet training and crate training, but soon your puppy will need to face the great outdoors. Preparation and socialisation are vital to help your puppy face these challenges confidently.
The key socialisation period for puppies is between 4-12 weeks of age. Before their vaccinations, at home you can expose them to things around the house such as Vacuum cleaners, washing machines and well-behaved children.
But there will be a time where you need to start exposing them to external stimuli and this is where puppy training classes are important. They help you as an owner train your puppy to behave in an appropriate manner when out and about, but they also get the opportunity to socialise with other puppies!
When should I take my puppy to classes
It is important for your puppy to have received the necessary vaccinations before they are around other dogs and in another environments. Depending on the vaccination course this would be around 10-12 weeks of age. At this age a puppy should have developed the necessary ability to communicate with other dogs and be able to adapt to a new environment. Without this type of exposure at this age, dogs can become fearful of new people, animals and environments.
What are the benefits of going to puppy training classes?
Sadly, many dogs are not trained especially during that key socialisation period, resulting in behaviour problems when they are an adult. This often results in owners re-homing their dog. By attending classes, you learn from an expert in puppy training. Through them you will learn an understanding of puppy and dog behaviour to prevent future problem behaviours such as aggression, anxiety and fear. With proper socialisation and positive reinforcement, you are more likely in future to have a well-adjusted pet without the behavioural problems that often lead to re-homing.
What is covered at puppy training classes?
You will learn the basic commands such as sit, stay, come, leave and how to walk on the lead. These are important commands especially when you start to go on walks. Your trainer may also cover topics such as toilet training, crate training, and how to prevent separation anxiety. You will learn the importance of positive reinforcement and its role in training your dog. Everything you learn you can then implement into everyday life and everyday scenarios.
Where to go?
Look for local dog trainers that run classes in your area. You might also find charities such as the Dogs Trust and Battersea and organisations like the kennel club will also run classes, so have a look and see what is available in your area.
Most veterinary clinics, although they won’t be able to recommend a company, may have contacts for classes in the area. Some veterinary clinics will also hold puppy parties. These are generally run by Veterinary Nurses and will cover basic training. They often start before your puppy has their second vaccination, so you can take advantage of that crucial socialisation window! They are also a good opportunity for your puppy to socialise in an environment that can often have a negative association, thus hopefully creating a positive experience for them in an area where they could feel fearful.
Wherever you choose it would be advisable to check it out before committing to the classes to make sure you feel comfortable there and you agree with the methods being used.
How many classes should I expect?
It all depends on where you go, but you can expect the course to last around 6 weeks. This would bring the puppy up to around 20 weeks in age. Some may run them for longer to cover other topics as they get older.
Attending puppy training classes, although not compulsory, is advisable. Not only does training strengthen your bond with your puppy but also puppy socialisation is vital, and these classes allow a safe space to do this. You and your puppy will learn vital skills to keep them safe, confident and well-behaved both in public and at home.
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