The Good And The Bad Of Group Dog Training
Dog training installs good habits while simultaneously allowing you to bond with your dogs. There are endless options on how to train your dog. You can do it yourself, buy a book, DVD, hire a private trainer or join a group dog training class.
Sometimes though, it is challenging to determine the right training method. Read on to discover one of the most popular ways to train a dog.
What To Expect From Group Dog Training
Group Dog Training is one of the most popular ways in which dog trainers interact with their clients. Past clients can come back to refresh their skills, while new clients get started on basic dog training. As for private lesson clients, they improve their skills and those of their canine companions.
Additionally, there are multiple group classes one could hold. Most trainers begin with basic obedience and puppy skills, then progress to nose work or group trick classes. Besides, expert dog trainers may have reactive or confidence-building classes for shy dogs and their owners.
Ensure you prepare adequately for the class by thoroughly researching the dos and don’ts of the class. Also, be sure to write down well-thoughts expectations from the class. Ensure you show up early and get you and your furry companion the most suitable space. Be sure to participate in class and seek clarifications when unsure.
Benefits of Group Dog Training
Cost-Effective
Sharing a class means you get to share the cost of the trainer and the venue. Therefore, if budget is an issue, you should consider joining a group dog training class. However, it would be best if you kept in mind that sometimes private training may be more cost-effective for specific issues in the long run.
Get To Socialize
Group training provides the perfect opportunity for you and your dog to meet new friends, mainly if you live in dog unfriendly locations. Such places include apartments and areas with few dog parks.
It is the responsibility of the trainer to ensure your safety and that of your dog. A good trainer will be on the lookout for warning signs of an impending dog fight and do everything possible to ensure their class members are safe.
Notably, if your dog is not friendly, social, or tolerant of other dogs, then group classes may not be the best place to start.
Your Dog Learns To Work Around Distractions
Every dog needs to have the ability to follow through with cues, despite the distractions. If your dog is compliant at home but gets easily distracted when you bring it outside, group dog training classes are meant for you.
It is not uncommon to find a dog that will comfortably sit at the front door but not the back door. Or, a dog that quickly follows a ‘come inside’ command, but not a ‘come outside’ instruction.
There might be two possible causes for such behavior – dogs do not generalize very well, and two, your dog is unprepared to advance to such a level of distraction. Therefore, the more you bring them to the outside world, the better their training. Most importantly, group classes are filled with controlled distractions that your dog can practice around.
Ideal For Shy Dogs
If you have a shy dog, though not overly so and not aggressive, a group class may be the perfect way to get it to be more comfortable around people and fellow dogs. Perhaps, the key advantage is that your dog does not feel the pressure of having all attention on it, further helping it feel at ease.
Working near other dogs while they are focused on the training can help build a somewhat shy dog’s confidence. However, it would be best to commence with private training for extremely shy or fearful dogs, moving to a group class later.
The Downside To Group Dog Training
Every good thing has something wrong going on for it. The same case applied to group dog training. Here are some of the cons of group dog training:
- Too distracting environment to commence training
- Unfavorable environment for overly shy, unfriendly, or aggressive dogs
- Dog owners tend to ignore their furry companions and instead focus on the teacher
- Tension may develop if all dogs are on a leash
Conclusion
Like any other training method, group dog training comes with its set of pros and cons. While it may be cost-effective and helps your dog work around distractions, group classes are not ideal for overly shy and aggressive dogs. Kindly note the right dog training method boils down to your preferences and your dog’s needs.
