According to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), 6-8 million pets end up in shelters each year, over 50% being euthanized. Of these 2 million are owner surrenders with the top reasons for giving up the dog being training and behavior problems.
These numbers alone should give the incentive to train your new dog, but there are other great reasons as well:
1) A well trained dog understands limits and expectations, is more reliable and well behaved, and is better able to adapt to unusual situations.
2) Training your new dog helps to develop the bond and relationship you have with your dog.
3) Training is a fun way to communicate with your dog. It also reinforces your role as pack leader.
4) A well trained dog can be an ambassador for other dogs in your community.
Making a commitment to train your new dog is part of being a responsible pet owner. Training is an ongoing process involving both formal training sessions and informal reinforcement the rest of the time. Training should be fun, but may be harder than you think. Thankfully there are many resources available to help you.
Ways to Train Your New Dog
… at Home, at a Class, or Using a Professional Trainer?
The decision about where to train your new dog is very much dependent on the needs of you and your dog:
1) Training classes held in your local community will require your commitment once a week for 6 – 8 weeks. Classes are usually held in the evenings and on weekends. They often vary in content, quality and training space, so be sure to ask for the qualifications of the trainer, where the classes will be held, how many dogs will be in the class, what will be taught and what training methods will be used. Classes typically cost between $50 and $150.
2) Professional trainers either com to your house for one on one sessions or take your dog to their facility for a couple of weeks of intense training. Again, it is important to find out about the knowledge, reputation, and training methods used by the trainer, especially if you are going to be sending your dog to them. Professional training is an expensive option with good trainers charging up to $100 per hour, and $1000+ for training at their facilities.
3) Training at home is much more flexible. Information is provided in the form of e-books, video or audio presentations that you can use to train at your own pace, when you have time, not being restricted to a short class every week for a few weeks. Increasingly video presentations are used, that you can review as many times as necessary to see exactly how techniques should be implemented. Many products additionally have the option to e-mail questions to trainers or even have forums where you can talk to other dog owners. Training at home using an online resource typically costs less than $50, are written by respected dog trainers, and come with a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE.
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