The Walking Club

Should I take my puppy to a puppy class?

A good class helps. A bad one can do harm. Visit first, and watch how the trainer treats the dogs.
2 min read·Field notes

Short answer: a well-run puppy class is a good idea for most owners. It gives your puppy safe practice around other people and dogs, and it gives you a coach. How good it is depends on the class.

What a good class looks like

The AKC suggests visiting a class before you sign up. Listen to the instructor and watch how they treat both the owners and their dogs. Ask questions to decide if their training methods are right for you.

Things to ask

Ask how they teach and what happens when a puppy is frightened. A trainer who welcomes questions and lets you visit is a good sign.

If a class is not right

It is fine to leave. Puppies who are scared, or who are pushed to meet other dogs, can learn that other dogs are a problem. A shy puppy may do better in a small class or with private sessions. For choosing a person to work with, see how to choose a dog trainer.

Get the right help

Ask your vet when your puppy is ready for classes, because it depends on vaccines.

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