| Training is a must for every dog, but some dogs can benefit from professional Dog Obedience Training Classes more than others. Good professional training sessions can teach these pooches basic commands and advanced corrective techniques much faster than the average home training routine. But does your dog actually need formal lessons to succeed? Below are some situations in which professional obedience training makes sense for a dog. |
You’re Raising a Puppy
If you’ve opted to adopt a puppy instead of an older dog, professional obedience classes can mean the difference between a well-behaved adult dog and one with obedience or behavioral issues. Like young children, puppies are constantly learning from their environment and experiences, so obedience classes can cement good behavior at a young age. According to the ASPCA, starting your puppy in obedience classes when he’s between 8 and 16 weeks old will have the most dramatic impact on his obedience and intelligence.
You Have a High-Risk Breed
Unfortunately, some breeds of dog have gotten a bad reputation. According to statistics, breeds like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and German Shepherds are involved in a disproportionately high number of dog-bite cases each year. Although it’s an unfair stereotype, this can make it harder for owners of these breeds to rent apartments or purchase affordable home insurance–depending on the area, a high-risk dog can significantly raise premiums. Enrolling a high-risk dog in professional Dog Obedience Training Classes can help to give you and your neighbors peace of mind, avoid legal issues should an incident occur and even lower home insurance rates in some cases.
Your Dog Has Behavioral Issues
Behavioral issues like excessive barking, misplaced aggression and separation anxiety are common in canines. Fortunately, a qualified trainer can help learn the cause of the issue and work to correct it. For example, dogs who are prone to fear-biting may be excessively shy and may benefit from a low-key group training class. If your dog suffers from anxiety every time you leave the house, some one-on-one sessions with a trainer can help alleviate the problem. Formal obedience classes help to build confidence in dogs and also give them advanced socialization skills that can help to correct many behavioral problems.
Formal obedience classes are a necessity for some dogs, but all dogs can benefit from this type of training. To find a class that’s right for you and your pooch, contact the Chicago Canine Academy today.
