Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

Discussion in 'Labrador Training' started by Lisa4, Dec 11, 2013.

  1. Lisa4

    Lisa4 Registered Users

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    Hiya,
    I'm just wanting others opinions/views on puppy classes or 1 on 1 trainers please.

    I don't think I'm doing too badly with our Jax. We've learnt sit, paw, stay, wait and pee pee/poo poo. But as I'm a complete novice I don't feel that I'd be able to get the best out of him since I don't know all the tricks etc.

    So just wondering what all you helpful friendly people think? Thanks
     
  2. JulieT

    JulieT Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    I started with a local puppy class in a church hall - it was ok, I suppose. It got us out and about, we met other puppies, got introduced to clicker training etc. And learnt sit, down, stay, and the basics of walking on a lead.

    The disadvantage was Charlie is hugely distracted by other dogs, so I spent most of the 10 lessons learning to get his attention. Which was ok, but not sure I wanted to do it for an hour at a time.

    I had the instructor do a couple of 121 sessions with me, which were very useful - but really, she could tell me what I had to do with a very young puppy in just those 2 sessions.

    I then struggled to find something else, so turned to books and the labradorsite for a while. This was fine, and I managed to work through the basics.

    Then I went to 121 classes with a gundog trainer when Charlie was about 7 months, and still go (when Charlie is not on bed rest). These were and are great.

    So based on my experience, I'd say your local puppy class is probably ok to get started, then do 121 lessons later. Unless you think you want the tuition now, in which case one or two sessions is probably enough with a very young puppy.
     
  3. bbrown

    bbrown Moderator Forum Supporter

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    I think a mix is good. Pups need to socialise and learn to concentrate with distractions but when they're learning new things other dogs can be too much of a distraction. The other challenge with group lessons is it doesn't always focus on the things you want to concentrate on however they're great for keeping you roughly on track and you do learn a lot watching other dogs and handlers.

    So unsurprisingly pros and cons to both :)
     
  4. Lisa4

    Lisa4 Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    Thank you- you both said what I thought. I can imagine Jax being very sociable with other puppies and I also think the more generalised teaching wouldn't be something I'd want.
    I do enjoy learning with Jax so think we will just continue as we are unless any problems arise. Thanks again.
     
  5. kateincornwall

    kateincornwall Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    I agree re a mix of both too , I took Sam ( only twice ) to a local class in a village hall, it was mayhem , absolute madness , he was so distracted, but it did socialise him and that about all whereas his one to one gundog training achieved so much more :)
     
  6. Oberon

    Oberon Supporting Member Forum Supporter

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    You don't really expect your puppy or young dog to learn very much of the formal stuff in the actual class - it's mainly an opportunity to learn how to say hello nicely and to increase their attention span and patience a bit. It's about the socialisation (and the value of that shouldn't be underestimated). The other teaching (sits, drops, stands, stays, heeling etc) happens elsewhere based on what you, the human, have learned in the class. Just get your expectations right about the class - your goal might just be to be able to improve your ability to get your dog's attention in a distracting environment, maybe using the opportunity to return to play as a powerful reward.
     
  7. lynnelogan

    lynnelogan Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    personally i would buy the total recall book and concentrate on the recall,.....i found the recall the hardest thing to teach, took me 7 to 8 months.....the recall is the most important thing you will ever teach him.... :)
     
  8. Naya

    Naya Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    Personally I am finding the puppy class I currently take Harley to really useful. It has been really good at getting her attention whilst a lot is going on around her. I used to have a few issues with her not coming back if playing with another dog, or getting distracted easily, but now I can get her attention and to come no problem:) also lead walking has improved from attending these classes.

    I agree with Rachel (Oberon) about knowing what u want out of it. Harley knew how to sit, wait etc, but never good with others around, this is now brilliant :)
     
  9. Karen

    Karen Registered Users

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    Re: Puppy training classes/ 1to1?

    I agree, dog or puppy classes are excellent for socialization (both canine and human! ;) ), and for steadiness. But it is no good thinking you can turn up once a week and magically have a dog that is trained - you have to work at it constantly on your own.

    If there is a particular problem you want to have assessed, or if you are finding the puppy class too stressful, then one-to-one can be very helpful.
     

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