Are you currently facing problems with your bouncy four-legged friends? Jumping up on people and pulling on their leads are two of the most common behaviour problems observed in dogs that lack training. Dog training is undeniably not as simple as the process of buying a pet. This is why some people consider enrolling their dogs in dog training classes. Residential dog training is one way of ensuring your dog’s future behaviour and condition, but is residential dog training worth investing? Are owners satisfied with the actual results of the training?
What to expect in residential dog training
There are various dog behaviour issues that call for training. Residential dog training enables dogs to work on:
- Recognising his name when called
- Walking pleasantly on a lead
- Peaceful interaction and playtime with other dogs
- Overcoming fear of other dogs or people/strangers
In residential dog training, your pooch will be paired with a professional instructor who will facilitate intensive training. This means that owners have to be separated from their dogs, which can be a hard decision for some. However, for the purpose of rigorous training and best results, your dog or puppy has to stay with his instructor. The goal is for him to retain learning and commands for a long-lasting outcome.
Many believe that a positive reinforcement method or rewarding good behaviour is the key to dog training and not punishment. Some canines may take a longer time to comprehend a single command. Factors affecting his performance include the environment (which includes the trainer, method used, and the task introduced), time frame, and genetic factors. (Read: Top 9 Dog Breeds That Are Easily Trained)
Some of the ways commonly used by trainers are as follows:
Do-based training
- Compulsion-praise training – Physically encouraging a dog to perform the desired command such as sitting or lying down. Actions are followed by giving treats as a reward.
- Lure-reward training – Using food as a lure to follow with the command.
- Marker training – Employing certain devices that produce sounds or clicks accompanied by rewards to let him know which behaviours are good.
Don’t-based training
- Consequence training – Divert the dog’s attention to other tasks when performing undesirable behaviours.
- Replacement training – Direct correction of undesirable behaviour to the desired one.
Individual training vs group training
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There are points to consider when choosing between an individual and group training. The final verdict depends on time, money, and your desired aim. Your dog’s personality and temperament should also be kept in mind.
Individual training
- One-to-one dog training ensures a relationship-based connection with the full attention set to cater to the client and the dog.
- Sessions can be adjusted to cater to your specific goals.
- Detailed training.
- Tailored methods depending on your dog’s personality and temperament.
Group training
- Economically wise.
- It brings the benefits of camaraderie and friendly competitiveness.
- Dogs with similar personality and temperament are usually grouped together, which brings a sense of strong connectivity.
Both types have their own strengths and weaknesses. You may try both environments to see where your dog works best. Begin with private lessons to build a firm foundation of obedience commands. Then you may opt for group classes to improve and master the learned commands.
Choosing an ideal dog trainer
Do research on the company’s certification and credentials.
Look for trainers who are dedicated and patient. Choose the ones with professional training qualification or work experience in animal behaviours.
Look for any participation in continuing education.
Know that dog training is a dynamic profession. A professional dog trainer is acceptant of new methods and ways that can be learned through participation in training classes, conferences, and seminars.
A professional trainer should be able to explain their methodology in simplest terms.
As the dog’s owner, it is important for you to understand the type of methods used in training. Learn to recognise if the potential trainer is confident with the techniques used.
Upon understanding the ways used, you need to decide if it works best for your pooch. Set the goals that you want to achieve with the potential dog trainer and see if he/she can achieve your desired result. Do all these before signing any contract.
See if you can observe a lesson or class before anything else.
Being able to watch and observe is a great way to assess a dog trainer. In this way, you will be able to thoroughly assess the trainer, the class, as well as the methods used. Look how they communicate with their clients, especially their dogs. Is it the type of behaviour and environment you would want your dog to learn?
Aftercare after training
Find out in advance what aftercare you will receive once the training finishes. Most responsible dog training schools offer ongoing telephone support.
In most cases, training ends together with the owners. This is to ensure that you will be able to carry out the trainers’ methods and instructions once you take the lead. It is very crucial for owners to be fully committed to keeping up with the training even at home. Remember that your pooch is a work in progress; he will not come back to you as a subservient robot.
You may also like to read:
- Top 9 Dog Breeds That Are Easily Trained
- Essential Tools and Gadgets for Dog Training
- Dog Whistle Training Guide
- Clicker Training: 4 Secrets to Teaching Your Dog New Behaviours
- 9 Questions You Want to Ask Before Getting a Dog Behaviourist
- Teaching Your Dog the 5 Must-Know Dog Commands
