Obedience Classes

[dreamingartist]

In the spring, we plan on signing up Melody for obedience classes. The big question is where? We have information on Petsmart and Petco classes, but weren't sure if they were good or not. Has anyone taken the classes at these stores? Another question is it better to go into a group class or a private class? Any advice would be great. The more I think about it, the more excited I get!

[Kolbe]

Originally Posted by dreamingartist

We have information on Petsmart and Petco classes, but weren't sure if they were good or not.

This is going to be completely dependent on the trainer at that particular store. Some are great, some are not. Some have years of experience prior to their position at that store, some do not. If you want to go that route I would suggest observing a class or two first before signing up.

Originally Posted by dreamingartist

Another question is it better to go into a group class or a private class?

I think a group class is a great idea.... part of training is training under distractions, and other dogs certainly count as distractions.

[KatieB]

Ginnie (howfortunate) had nothing but good things to say about the trainer they used for Millie. I just asked her for the info, so I'll PM it to you when she gets back to me. I've had the privilege of meeting Millie, and I can tell you she is 90lbs of awesome and very well-behaved.

I'm also going this week to check out some trainers in the area. I can keep you posted on what I find. I'm pretty much exploring all options before I settle on one, as long as they use positive reinforcement.

I'm staying away from PetSmart and PetCo, even for puppy kindergarten. I agree, I think it's too iffy. Especially for us, where we have to be SO careful because of the potential for lawsuits and worse, just because of the breed. If I had a non-bully breed, I'd probably be more open to those types of places.

[Pocokiah]

JJ just graduated from beginner class at Petsmart and I thought it was great. I have zero complaints. In fact, I even signed JJ up for intermediate that starts in a few weeks.

The trainer was very good, but we did a ton of practicing and reinforcing at home, which really made all the difference. The class was a good size (6-9 dogs, depending on who was there for "make up" classes from the week).

For me, they offered the most flexible program. We did Saturdays, but there were 3 other classes we could go to if we had to miss for some reason. Also - it was only $100 for 8 weeks. So even if it ended up being horrible, it's only $100. That's a lot of money, but I wouldn't loose sleep over it. And the trainer always let the class run longer because she had to be there anyhow, so what the hell did she care! So we really got about 90 minutes, sometimes more, per week for 8 weeks for $100

Our Petsmart has a grooming salon and a vet clinic, so you can imagine the amount of distractions JJ had to fight on a Saturday!

His behavior is excellent, especially for an 8 month old. He has improved dramatically.

JJ also has no major issues - no aggression, no guarding, LOVES other dogs and cats, people, etc. so I was not nervous.

[KatieB]

Laura, I sent you a PM with some info - Ginnie is SUPER quick

[dreamingartist]

That was really quick. Thank you so much Katie! We'll definitely look into them. Good luck finding a class for Draego.