Back to School: Dog Training 101
Somehow, another summer has come and gone. That means it’s back-to-school season already, and while you may be busy stocking up on school supplies and new clothes, it can also be a good time to consider some education (or re-education) for your pet in the form of training.
Pet owners naturally have a lot of questions when it comes to pet training. When to do it, how much it costs, the best methods…the list goes on. To help answer some of those questions, we’ve provided a rough breakdown as to what pet owners (dog owners, specifically), should consider and expect as it relates to training.
Because, after all, sometimes an old dog can learn new tricks.
The Best Time Frame to Train Your Dog
Generally, it’s best or advisable to try and train your dog when they’re still a puppy. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) says that pet owners can start training as early as seven or eight weeks, too. Assuming, of course, that they’ve had their vaccinations! So, if you have a puppy, that can be a good ballpark time frame to start training them.
You can, of course, train older dogs, though it may be more difficult. There are a lot of training classes and businesses out there, so it may be a good idea to shop around, take your dog to a few of them, and see which one feels right or fits your budget. If you have questions about specific trainers or whether your dog is up for it, it may be a good idea to speak with your veterinarian to see if they have suggestions or tips, too.
How Much Does Training Cost?
Unfortunately, there’s no easy or direct answer as to how much dog training costs. It can vary depending on a number of factors, including where you live. In San Diego and the surrounding area, you’re likely to find trainers, training classes or sessions that can range from dozens to hundreds of dollars.
But, if you want to get a very general idea, a puppy training class — which might include one lesson or session per week for four or five weeks — might cost somewhere in the $400 neighborhood. That might be for a private or semi-private session, too. Again, it’s best to shop around, zero in on what, specifically, you’re looking for in a training class, and go from there.
Best Training Method: Group vs. Individual
Another question: Is it best to train your dog individually, or as a part of a group. Again, there’s no clear answer. While group training may be less expensive, it means your dog will get less one-on-one time with a trainer.
However, group training may be a net positive as it gives your dog a chance to interact and socialize with other dogs, which can be helpful. You may also get a chance to see how a trainer works with or interacts with other dogs, which you may find helpful as you continue your training at home or outside of a training class.
Overall, depending on your individual dog’s temperament, it may be worth it to try both, to see which works best. As for group classes, your dog will likely benefit from some socialization, too.
At-Home Training
You can, of course, train your dog at home. Even if you do take your dog to training classes, you’re going to be doing the lion’s share of training a home, anyway, when you think about it. So, you should probably prepare for some at-home training to some degree no matter what.
Some basic rules of thumb or tips from the American Kennel Club:
Puppy-proof the house
Have patience
Learn to read your dog’s body language
Have high-value treats on hand for a reward
Reward them for being good
Be positive and liberal with your praise
Above all, positive reinforcement will be paramount. Reward them for being good — be it with a treat, a hug, a walk, whatever — and do your best to be consistent. Training dogs isn’t always easy, but we’ve been doing it for thousands of years. And, most importantly, remember to be patient!
Contact us to make an appointment today!
Read more: