It’s National Dog Training Month! Which method is right for you?

Vet Street surveyed 1,800 readers about dog training. Of the respondents:

• 8% didn’t train their dog.

• 45.5% trained their own dog.

• 46.7% opted for group training classes.

While self and group training are the most popular dog training options, we can’t forget about board-and-train or private/in-home training.

It’s hard to decide the right method for you and your dog. You don’t have a crystal ball, and everyone has an opinion. Have you ever trained a dog before? Do you have the money for a board-and-train program? Do you even love your dog if you aren’t willing to hire a private trainer?

We’re here to make your decision a little easier.

Sit & Stay Pro Tip: The Big Four

Self-training

The most challenging part of training a dog yourself is that, if this is your first time doing it, you have to learn a new skillset. It’s time-consuming, and you cannot take a day off. Consistency is vital in every dog training program. Doing it yourself is hard work, but it’s also the cheapest option and a valuable opportunity to bond with your pup.

Group classes

Group classes work well for many dog owners. It’s a great way to teach your dog basic obedience with the help of a knowledgeable instructor who may even be able to give you some one-on-one attention.

If you have a dog or puppy who is generally well-behaved, group classes can be the perfect option. However, if your dog is aggressive or has trouble house training, a group setting won’t work for them. Those cases always require one-on-one attention.

Board-and-train

This is also known as dog training bootcamp. Board-and-train programs are tricky because you have to ensure you’re sending your dog away for an appropriate amount of time, usually about five weeks. This gives them ample time to adjust to their new environment and learn new skills.

Do you want to be away from your dog for five weeks? There is no right or wrong answer. You just need to decide what you’re comfortable with.

Private trainer

Private, in-home training is often the best of both worlds, and it's also expensive. Some in-home trainers charge by the hour or session, while others offer flat rate options.

In-home trainers train you and your dog at the same time. They stay by your side to show you how best to communicate with your dog. They treat each dog as an individual and tailor the training to fit their needs, including minor issues like basic obedience and house training or more severe problems like aggression and separation anxiety.

Which option is best?

Choose self-training if you won’t lose interest or get easily discouraged while training. You have plenty of time to dedicate to learning different methods and working with your dog.

Choose group classes if you have a puppy who needs socialization or a dog who just needs a few lessons in basic obedience. There are no severe behavioral problems.

Choose a board-and-train program if you don’t have the time to dedicate to training your dog, and they need help with some of the more severe issues, like separation anxiety. You understand they won't be "fixed" when they come home and will still require work.

Choose private training to learn the best techniques from the pros. You’re confident that you can stay consistent with the training techniques when the trainer isn’t there, but you feel better knowing you can call someone when you have questions.

If one training technique doesn’t work, you can always try another. No matter how you decide to train your dog, the most important thing is that you care about their emotional wellbeing enough to do it.

The Smile Section

Vet Recommendations

Normally, we offer a recommendation from a veterinarian. This week, we want to offer a recommendation that will help you help your vet!

Have you ever considered training your dog to make vet visits easier? Did you even know you could? The Whole Dog Journal has an informative article about preparing your pup for exams, vaccines, nail trims, and more.

If your dog hates visiting the vet, or you want to prevent negative reactions from the start, give the article a read here.

Product of the Week

Interested in reward-based dog training? The Perfect Kibble by YumWoof makes excellent training treats. Choose from coconut chicken or beef pot roast flavors.

YumWoof’s Perfect Kibble focuses on healing, protecting, and sustaining. Using all-natural, premium ingredients, YumWoof’s goal is to improve your dog’s health and longevity.

Try a treat-size bag today or consider making it a part of your dog’s regular diet. This kibble makes a delicious, effective, and guilt-free training treat for your dog.

Have questions about dog training?

Get them answered by a professional dog trainer!

Each week, we’ll interview a trainer and feature the answers to your questions as our Sit & Stay Pro Tip. E-mail [email protected] to submit your question.

Think your dog can make us smile? Submit a pic to [email protected] for a chance to see your pet in our Smile Section!