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What to Look for in a Puppy Class

By Dr. Terry Bright

 

1)  Observe the Class--is there good content and structure?

2)  Instructor Management--is the instructor actively involved?

3)  No Aversions--such as spraying, scuffing or grabbing the puppy if they "misbehave".

4)  Escape--the puppy, if it seems to be overwhelmed, is allowed to leave if desired.

5)  Adult Dogs--if adult dogs are being used in the class, are they scaring the puppies or helping?

6)  NO Prong or Choke Collars--there is NEVER a reason for a puppy to have one of these on.

7)  No "Stopping" Behaviors

8)  No Verbal Corrections

9)  Build Good Behaviors--instead of correcting undesired ones.

10) Instructor/Puppy Ratio--you do not want more than 2 or 3 puppies per instructor.

11) Help in Raising Your Puppy--will they continue to help you with any issues you may have?

12) Senior Staff Behavioral Help--again continued support with older dogs.

 

You want your puppy  to learn how to:

Calm Down            Bond with Humans           Socialize properly

 

 

 

These 12 goals to look for were developed by Dr. Terry Bright, the Director of Behavioral Sciences at the MSPCA in Boston, Mass.  These are what they structure their own puppy classes after.

If you are unable to find a class close to you that would contain all of these goals, try and find one that is the closest.   If, like us, you live where there are no classes within hours, watch videos on the internet, there are many good trainers out there giving free information and help.

 

 

 

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