Points to consider when choosing a trainer

Reputation: You may find a trainer by asking your veterinarian, humane shelter, family members, or friends whom they recommend. Talk to people who have had their pets in the trainer's classes. Ask the trainer for references.

Experience and knowledge

Find out how long the person has been training puppies.

• Is the trainer familiar with the Canine Good Citizen Program and are they qualified as an evaluator?
• What education and continuing education has the trainer had?
• Is the trainer affiliated with any dog training or behavior associations?

Choose a trainer that has trained puppies that surpasses what you would like to do with your puppy. See how the trainer's dogs behave. If the trainer's dogs are not under control, are jumping on people, and are barking, the trainer is not going to be able to show you how to teach your dog to not jump on people or bark. You will need to have an idea of what you want to accomplish with your dog.

Communication skills

• Can the trainer communicate well with both the people and the puppies?
• Does the trainer answer questions in terms you can understand?
• Does the trainer provide written handouts?

Methods: If you are uncomfortable asking questions or do not like the instructor's methods, find another trainer. Training methods vary. Your puppy may not respond to one method, but respond very well to another. If your puppy does not seem to respond to the method the trainer uses, the trainer should be willing to show other methods for teaching your puppy. The trainer should use positive reinforcement for correct behavior.

Style: Anyone training dogs needs to have a sense of humor. The people and dogs in the class should be enjoying it. It should be obvious to you that the trainer likes working with people and dogs.

Class structure

• What is the class size?
• Do people and puppies receive some individual attention?
• Is there enough room for all the people and dogs to participate in all of the activities?
• Are all family members encouraged to participate, especially in the puppy classes?
• Must all dogs have proof of vaccination before starting the class?

Common types of dog classes

Puppy classes: These classes are for puppies about 2-5 months old. The socialization under controlled situations is the absolute best thing you can do for your puppy. In addition to socialization, topics covered include housebreaking, chewing, digging, biting and socializing.  They can also teach the basics of pulling, sitting and other commands.   

Basic obedience classes: These classes are for puppies older than about 5 months of age. They reinforce what was started in puppy classes and continue on to include heel, sit, stay, down, and come.

Advanced obedience classes: These classes work on response time and finesse. They may be geared to those who wish to show in obedience competitions.

Agility classes: These classes are for those who want to have fun with their puppies. Puppies are taught how to go over, under, and through various obstacles. It is like taking your puppy to a playground. This class can be for fun or to prepare for competition in agility trials.

These are just some of the ways you can spend time with your puppy. The benefits of attending training classes with your puppy include having a well-mannered dog that is invited to come with when you visit family and friends.