24/10/2024
Why we say 'NO' to puppy school: Five reasons to wag class
You’ve just brought your bright-eyed, yet untrained, puppy home. What’s next you ask? Puppy school, right?
'Wrong'
Although they’re popular and often endorsed by vets, puppy school gets a big fat F on our report card.
For starters, being part of a large group of misbehaving pups-in-training is actually counterproductive to your dog’s learning and growth (surprise, surprise).
So here are the FIVE main reasons you should ditch puppy school.
1. Beware of amateur trainers
Did you know, dog trainers don’t need a formal qualification?
This is fantastic news for puppy schools. Why? Because they can maximise their intake with back-to-back classes led by untrained trainers (the irony!) – or at best, those who are soon-to-be qualified.
With poor knowledge and skills to properly train your impressionable puppy, they can do more harm than good. So, watch out!
2. It’s a short-term solution
Enrolling your new four-legged friend in a four-week puppy school program sure sounds good.
But is it too good to be true?
Sorry to break it to you – but yes. Yes it is.
When it comes to training a puppy, there’s no such thing as a quick lesson. Instead, training should be incorporated into your dog’s everyday life.
3. Things can get unruly
Socialising your puppy doesn’t mean letting them go crazy in a group of other untrained puppies.
This causes over-excitement, encourages aggression and instils fear.
Not exactly the desired emotional state of a puppy-in-training.
4. It’s a ‘one size fits all’ approach
All puppies have different training needs, depending on their unique temperament, breed and varying home environments.
So it’s highly unlikely one puppy school training method would suit the whole group.
5. The wrong type of reinforcement
Puppy schools love to use treats. And why wouldn’t they? Puppies can’t get enough of them!
But using treats as a reward in the long term can get iffy, and can cause future problems. Your puppy may become dependent on, and demand, treats – only behaving if there’s an edible reward.
There are much smarter ways to positively reinforce your dog’s behaviour…
So what’s the best puppy training alternative?
For the best results, your newest family member needs individual, in-home training – from an experienced puppy training specialist.
At AUSDOG, individual training comes to you. We help you set your puppy up for a well-mannered and sociable life by your side. Call 1800 AUSDOG to arrange a home visit from our experienced puppy trainers.
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