puppy taining classes?

Question

how much do those petsmart classes for puppies cost? it doesn't say on the website. and are they worth it?

Answer 1

We have 2 well adjusted and obedient dogs. Both have gone through at least 2 of the PetSmart training classes. The oldest has been through all and passed the "Good Samaritan Test" 2 years after the initial training. I would stand by it %100 beneficial for both dog and owner. Sure, you can train a dog on your own, but at the class you and your dog will benefit from all kinds of social interaction with other people and animals. One of the biggest excersises won't even occur inside the training class. It will be taking your dog to training and having your dog learn when it can go in and out of the car and to follow your lead whenever in public. These are important safety lessons for whenever you need to travel anywhere with your dog. I was glad that they used positive reinforcement as opposed to choke collars, etc... I would say that the instructor we had was very good and very experienced. If you are unsure about the class, ask to be introduced to the teacher and find out more to see if you would be comfortable there, ask how long they have been training, how many other dogs would be in the class, etc... The experience itself was worth the fee if you have never tried it before.

Answer 2

I've answered this exact question before so my answer is just cut and pasted from the last response I gave. Hope you don't mind!

I do not recommend the Petsmart/Petco classes. I've gone and they weren't great. When selecting an obedience class, call before enrolling and ask if you can sit in on a class (your dog may not be welcome at this time) to see if you like the training methods. If you like the instructor and the training, ask if you may bring your dog to meet the instructor. If your dog doesn't like him/her then things will not progress as quickly. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The most important ones in my opinion are these.

Do you allow or require treats for training? (I don't like to use treats and prefer praise but some people do prefer treats. Make sure your preference is allowed.)

What type of leash and collar are required? (I prefer a training collar and a leather leash but some places may require a flat buckle collar, halti, or even a harness. Again, let your comfort level and preference decide for you. If your instructor uses a training collar, make sure s/he knows how to use it. The SHOULD NOT choke the dog with it ever!)

What type of corrections are used? (Pretty self explanatory.)

What will we learn? (Self explanatory.)

Are shots, worming, heart worm tests, or altering required? (Self explantory.)

How long is the course and how much does it cost? (a course should be at least 8-10 weeks and your dog may not go to the first one depending on the instructor. Some prefer the first lesson just to be a get together to find out if you have questions or specific problems you need help with. The cheapest is not always the best but you do need to find one that you can afford. Expect around $100.)

Answer 3

Where we live it is $99 per class. I totally believe in them. We have 2 dogs. One has gone though all that they offer and is very well behaved. The other is only 5 months old and doing the puppy training now. One of the great things about the class is that once you pay for the class, you can retake the class at anytime, same animal, for free. So, it your dog is a slow learner or needs to brush up, you can go back. Talk to one of the trainers and you will get a feel for how knowledgeable they really are.

Answer 4

There are 2 types of classes:
Puppy kindergarten for those 8-14 weeks
annd regular obedience classes for those over 14 weeks.

Assuming the pup is up to date on all its shots,
puppy kindergarten is a great for socializing and
maybe a few basic commands. A petmsart type class
would be ok.
But for the more focused obedience training, you will
do better to spend your money on a training class
that is more personalized, and offered through a smaller
kennel or trainer. I would avoid Petco for these type
classes as I doubt that have as much knowledge as
full time trainers, not to mention the environment it is
set in.

Answer 5

Personally I perfer priviate group class's for a puppy. I've stood there and watched PetCo classes and walked away laughing. The kid teaching the class was awful.
Maybe PetMarts are better but ask alot of questions especially how much training does the trainer have. If it's less than 3 years then find another puppy class for your pup.

Answer 6

PetSmart classes are pretty good. They're about $160 for 8 weeks. I went to a private dog store class first with my english bulldog puppy and was told to stand in the corner with him, because he was so excited and wanted to play with other dogs and I wouldn't let him, so he was making these really freaky high-pitched noises. Pissed me off - the trainer who told me to stand in the bloody corner. Will never go back again.
I took him to PetSmart and the lady who was teaching the class troubleshot the problem. I'd go back at any given time.

Answer 7

The training classes are around 100 for 8 weeks, I think not 100% on that and they are guaranteed. If your not satisfied you'll get a refund. You can find the store nearest you that offers training and you should go in and speak to the trainer before making a decision.

Answer 8

I just enrolled in one of those with my puppy. It is $99 for 8 weeks. I'm looking forward to it because I've never had a dog on my own before (my dad did everything and wouldn't let anyone else). I'm sure it's really easy to do it yourself if you are familiar with training but those of us who aren't would like to learn. It should be a good experience for both of you!

Answer 9

Dogs don't need "social interaction" and all that nonsense! Why do people insist on acting like animals are people? So stupid. It's a dang DOG! Not a 5 year old kid! get completely over it! This is why people from other countries make fun of Americans. Because they spend money on completely retarded crap!

Answer 10

in case you do no longer take him to domestic dog training - you will pass over the possibility to socialise in a controlled ecosystem inclusive of your canines, and the possibility to earnings manners and concepts to coach the talents you have taught - in a placing with numerous distractions. does not do any sturdy in the experience that your canines in user-friendly terms comes while no longer the rest is around. in case you do no longer visit domestic dog classification - we will hear from you in 6 months approximately something that doesn't be an subject concerns - in case you had long gone to domestic dog classification or commencing up obedience, or rally.