Whether you’ve got a brand new puppy you’re keen to train, or an older dog who has developed the odd behavioral issue or two, choosing which type of training class to attend is important. There are three main options – aside from totally undertaking training yourself. These are group dog training classes, private training, or enrolling your pet in a dog boot camp.
As well as your dog’s temperament and personality (and the nature of any behavioral issues present), budget is likely to play a key role in your considerations. Group training is typically the cheapest option, followed by private sessions and doggy boot camp. We dive into each choice in detail below.
Group Dog Training
The cheapest dog training option – unless you choose to train your furry friend entirely yourself – is usually a group dog training class. Classes typically incorporate up to around eight dogs, last an hour, and will teach basic obedience and commands such as sit, stay, down, and come.
As well as being a usually effective means of training, group classes can be a great way to socialize your dog and get them used to being around new people and other pooches. On average you’ll pay around $50 per class, and you can choose for how long you attend. Needless to say, just like people, different dogs have different abilities, and some may benefit from additional classes!
Dog Boot Camp
Enrolling your furry friend in a doggy boot camp means they’ll attend a kennel all day where they’ll be looked after, fed, watered, walked, and trained – and returned home in the evening. If you’re looking for a way to train your dog fast, this could be an option. Most dog boot camps last between three and six weeks and cost between $250 and $1,200 a week. Some boot camps also offer a board-and-stay option, and there will be an additional fee payable for this.
As well as being an effective way for your dog to learn basic obedience and commands, dog boot camps can typically also address problem behaviors such as jumping, nipping, leash pulling, excessive barking, chewing, and counter surfing.
Private Dog Training
Private sessions may be ideal for dogs with more challenging temperance or behavioral issues that could do with some one-on-one coaching with a professional trainer. Expect to pay between $50 and $200 a session for this service, which typically also includes a customized training plan.
How many sessions are required will depend on the nature and severity of the behavioral issues and the nature of the dog – some pets may only need a few sessions of private dog training, while others benefit from attending for a few months.
Other Pet Costs to Remember
If you’re putting together a household budget and are keen to ensure everything pet-related, such as training costs, is included, don’t forget to add pet insurance. If you don’t already have coverage, you may be surprised to know that a pet insurance policy cost is relatively inexpensive. From as little as $47 a month, you can protect your dog in the event of an accident or newly developed illness. Add-on wellness packages cost a little more, and typically add regular vaccinations and wellness visits to your cover.
Keeping Training Going at Home
Whichever training option you choose, it’s important to continue with what your dog has learned at home. Consistency is key, so be sure to always use the same commands, and to always expect the same level of obedience from your dog. Your furry friend will be confused; for example, if one day they’re allowed up on the sofa and the next they aren’t; inconsistency can put a serious spoke in your efforts to keep up your dog’s training.
It’s a good idea to speak with your dog’s trainer about ways to continue training at home. They’ll no doubt have lots of ideas and tips to help you put into practice daily what’s been learned in the class. And if things start to slide a little? A refresher training course, either in a group or one-to-one setting, could be just the thing.
The Takeaway
Training your dog properly is essential for a happy household, but choosing how to go about doing so may be tricky. Group classes tend to make for a great option, teaching basic commands and obedience and helping to socialize your pet around other dogs and people.
For old dogs or those who have challenging behavioral issues, private dog training classes may be the answer. And for those who want their pooch trained in double-quick time? Doggy boot camp could be the way ahead – although it is likely to be a significant budgetary outlay. Whichever you choose, be sure to be consistent at home to keep the good behavior going, and sign up for a refresher course if needed.
Photo credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-sitting-and-playing-with-dog-outdoors-xvYxGcwFvuE
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