Puppy classes, are they worth it?

Question

Hi, I have an 11 week old Australian Shepherd and awhile back I registered him in a puppy training class, but since then he has become really well trained. The class teaches the basics, and he basically has everything covered. He is potty trained, he is leash trained, he sits and lays down on command, and he used to bite ALOT, and that has since then improved a lot. We work with him a lot, and are active with him as well, I was just curious if you think he still should go to the class?


NOTE: We also take him to a puppy play class once a week where he interacts with other puppies.

Answer 1

Puppy classes are really good for socialization as well as training basic commands. Since you take him to puppy play class though, it seems like you are socializing him. As long as he is learning his commands and getting socialized, I don't think you have to take him to a puppy class. It's up to you.

It might be good to take him to the class though because it presents an added distraction for him. Things that may be easy for him to perform at home or other places might be harder in a group environment. And the more practice, the better!

Seems like you are doing a good job though, and I don't think the class is definitely necessary. But it could make things even better.

Answer 2

If you've got a good handle on basic puppy training, and he gets a regular opportunity to socialize with other dogs and people, then a puppy class probably isn't a necessity - it could be a good way to reinforce things, though.

If you don't do the puppy class, you might want to find out if there is a Canine Good Citizen class and enroll in that, or maybe an advanced puppy class.

Answer 3

Hello
You have a very intelligent breed on your hands and I would not waste my money on the classes
We have two Australian Cattle dogs and they pick up all commands so easy and ours are so well trained and they have never ever stepped foot near a Professional Trainer and we get compliments all the time about how well trained they are
So again Your Breed is a exception to the rule and I Would skip the classes and keep up the good work
Take Care
Anne

Answer 4

It sounds like you're already off to a good start. To be honest I don't even think classes are worth it for the dogs who aren't trained because, as a professional pet sitter, I come in contact with plenty of dogs who graduated their obedience class but are a train wreck when it comes to actually behaving at home.

Aussies are extremely intelligent and have a lot of energy so it's a good idea to give him an outlet to learn, expel energy and be stimulated. Try an advanced obedience class, canine good citizen or beginning agility class.

Answer 5

$eighty-$a hundred in line with type? Or in line with 6-8 week consultation? If this is the latter, then it somewhat is extremely existence like! i'd propose it. puppy instructions are an excellent, secure ecosystem to socialise your puppy with different dogs and new human beings besides. you will additionally get helped began on some solid behaviours and easy instructions. do no longer pay attention to the PP. A mutt is not any extra suitable or worse than a organic bred at obeying instructions. this is the dogs.

Answer 6

Any good obedience class will teach you how to work with your dog. Training on a regular basis helps you establish and deepen your relationship with your dog. Perhaps he should go to more of the play/socialization classes and you can take a more advanced obedience class when he gets older. Learning and training should be an on-going, life-long event for you both.

Answer 7

If you get a good instructor, they're priceless. Continued training depends on your goals. You are spending time with your dog, that in itself is half the battle. The socializing is awesome.

If you are looking into agility, or tricks or something beyond what the class covered, then yes.

You're puppy is still young, will make mistakes, but you all are off to an incredible start. KUDOS!

Answer 8

Absolutely. This breed of dogs needs lots of interaction and constant training. he needs a job to do, he's a herding dog. I suggest moving on to the agility training courses after all the regular dog training courses are done. Make a game out of it and reward him for it. That will make it fun for both of you. Try training him do to tricks, he seems very intelligent and you'll want to keep his brain moving in a positive direction with new and fun things. Tha'ts the key here. You are doing all the right things, keep up the good work. And I mean, keep it up, you'll have a well balanced dog and a good companion and part of your family.

Answer 9

Yes. Continuing training and socialization is always a good idea. I am very capable of doing all my own manners training at home but it is imperative that the pups also learn how to behave and perform amongst other dogs with distractions. Puppy training class is more about learning to behave while amongst other dogs than it is about socializing.

Answer 10

Sounds like you are doing real well with your pup. I think you should still sttend these classes though, as often pups are great, first off, and then as they get older they learn to push and train YOU! lol I fnothing else, the classes will be a further chance to socialise, which can only be a great thing. I'd definatly go.
Keep up the good work =)