When people get a dog they envision it being a faithful companion who is obedient and well behaved, a friend to children and other pets, and a protector of the home and family. However, what they often wind up with is a hyper ball of fur that ignores commands, barks nonstop, chews furniture, or constantly tries to escape from the yard.

Left untreated, problem behaviour adds stress and definitely decreases the enjoyment of owning a pet. Sadly, many dogs are surrendered to shelters each year because owners are fed up or simply cannot deal with their dog’s undesired actions.

Many people expect their dog to naturally know the proper way to behave, and then get frustrated when the dog does the opposite. However, dogs can’t read minds and unless it has been trained to know how you want it to act, it’s not likely it will.

If you are willing and devoted, you can try training your dog yourself. There are lots of books out there that teach obedience. However, while books can be a great resource, training a dog on your own requires a commitment of time and energy. You must properly learn the techniques, and then spend adequate time working with your dog – only spending a couple minutes on the weekend won’t cut it.

For most people, the best solution is to take your dog to obedience classes. This way you have an expert teaching you proper methods and you are devoting regular time each week to training your pet. At the classes your dog will learn basic commands and will have the chance to socialize with other dogs and people. Plus, you will become familiar with the various techniques so it will be easier for you to continue training your dog.

Attending classes when you first get a puppy is highly recommended as it will get you and the dog started on the right track. Between eight and twelve weeks is the prime time for a puppy to begin obedience training. This training will not only help prevent behavioural problems from developing in the future, but is also a great way to establish the bond between you and the dog.

If your dog is no longer a puppy – don’t worry, there is no truth in the saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks”. Classes are also highly beneficial if you have a dog that has already developed mild problem behaviours such as jumping up, barking, digging, chasing cars, chewing, mild aggression, urinating indoors, etc. As long as the dog is in sound mental and physical condition, it is never too late to train it (it may just require a little more patience on your part).

When it comes to obedience classes, it is very important that you attend one that is right for you. Not only do you want to make sure that you get your money’s worth, but you also want to find it a rewarding and beneficial experience. Asking your vet, breeder or a shelter for some recommendations is a good place to start.

Once you have found a class you are interested in, you should interview the trainer as you will want to feel comfortable both with him/her as a person and with the training methods used. Here are some things you should ask a trainer before signing up for their classes:

What is their experience? There is no official ‘dog trainer’ license, so unfortunately anyone can call themselves one regardless of experience. Ask the trainer about their training background and how long they have been training dogs professionally. Find out if they belong to any professional associations, as well as how they keep up to date with what’s going on in the industry (a good instructor will attend seminars and conferences regularly). Don’t feel shy about questioning a trainer about their experience – you and your dog deserve to know!

What type of training methods they use? This is extremely important as there are many types of training and you want to be comfortable with the method being used. Above all, the trainer should practice humane techniques. Stay clear of any ‘trainer’ that uses methods that involve hitting, shocking, kicking or excessive force as there is NO reason to train a dog in that fashion. Skilled and reputable instructors will be concerned about the dogs’ welfare and will state that harsh training methods are not only uncalled for, but counter-productive as well. In addition to asking the instructor about the methods used, it is advisable that you also check out a class before signing up to make sure you are comfortable with what you see.

Get all the necessary info: Before signing up for a class, here are some more things you should inquire about:

• Pricing - Fees for all classes should be clearly stated and explained.
• Class size - Stay away from crowded classes. Not only would there be too many distractions in a large class, but you also would not get as much personal attention from the trainer. Classes should have a maximum of 10 dogs and ideally there is a trainer to every three-four dogs.
• What will be taught – The classes should cover different topics. In addition to obedience training, a good class will teach things such as good grooming techniques, behaviour problems, and nutrition.
• Reference materials – A good instructor will provide handouts concerning the training techniques that you can read and practice with.
• Facilities – Classes should be held in a clean, safe and non-stressful learning environment.

Ask for references: A great instructor will be able to provide you with many references of satisfied clients and pet professionals. Talking to people who have nothing but positive things to say about the trainer will help assure you that you are making the right choice.