Have you used the Petsmart Training classes if so how effective was it and how were the trainers and value?

Answer 1

It's really going to depend on the store. The training curriculum itself is not bad, but -- at least in my area -- PetsMart training managers have a habit of hiring "trainers" who can sell classes rather than teach them. They may have no previous dog training experience, but if they go through the "trainer education" and have sales skills, they become a trainer.

I taught for PetsMart for a couple of years, and started out with a great training manager who was a dog trainer, and hired trainers. She was eventually replaced by someone for whom sales was the focus.

As I said, the curriculum is decent, and group classes are excellent for dog socialization, but you should ask about your trainer's experience before you sign up for a class. If PetsMart has been their only dog training teaching experience, think about another source, such as a local dog training club, or a training business.

As someone else said, another important factor with group classes is that you follow through outside of class. We teach you how to train your dog, but it's up to you to work on it every day, outside of class. Otherwise, you won't get the results you want.

Good luck!

Answer 2

A friend works at Petsmart and she told me they only hire 'trainers' without experience so they can just tell them how to do it. It takes years of experience to be a good and effective trainer.

So I went to a few Petsmarts to watch classes and it was just awful. The 'trainers' I saw have no business trying to teach obedience classes. It is a huge disservice to pet owners. If it doesn't work for their dog they are not likely to try another class somewhere else, they will just figure they tried classes and it didn't work.

Go to a training school where they have experience!

Answer 3

I've watched many of their classes but have never taken my dog to one.
They teach nothing I can't teach at home.But the socialization is great for your dog and the fee is reasonable.
However you have to remember that no training class is going to be effective if you don't follow up at home.
I shop at PetSmart and take my dogs along.I follow them around the store pulling a cart while they check everything out.And I can't tell you how many angry dog owners I've encountered because we walked by them and their dog during training.We distract their dogs!Which is why PetSmart uses it's store for training classes.

Answer 4

I have and I love it. The trainer teaches you how to train your dog. That way the dog listens to you & not the trainer. My 4 cockers have been through the 1st 2 classes & It was worth every penny.

Answer 5

Those classes are agreat start and if you are looking for basic traiing with a puppy they are great.
However if you have a large assertive breed dog you should be looking for something more one on one with a behavorial trainer.
I do behavorial work with primarily Dobermans but work with many breeds. I go to the person home and watch the entire family and he dog and then gove them specific exercies to do and things to work on. I go back for a follow up visit to see how things are going and do lots of phone and e-mail with the person.
I do not do classes unless it is just one for a fundraiser or something like that as I feel I get better results one on one.

Answer 6

I've heard that training from a more private training school is more effective. You get more one-on-one interaction.

Answer 7

From what I have seen, I was not impressed