One of the most exciting aspects of getting a new puppy is the training you embark on together. Before I even brought Gatsby home, I knew that I wanted to enroll him in professional dog obedience training.
Right here in Van Wert, we have Hawk Haven “Good Dog” Obedience Training with instructor Marianne Frederick. Marianne trains in Van Wert once a week at the Van Wert County Fair Grounds and uses positive reinforcement tools to make you and your dog better citizens. The best part? Your dog can be ANY age to learn!
I’m a firm believer that one of the best things you can do for your puppy or dog is to enroll them in basic obedience classes. Not only will your pup learn important skills and behaviors, but you’ll also enjoy a stronger bond with your four-legged friend. Below, I’ve laid out some of the best reasons to grab the training treats and head to class!
Top 6 Reasons to Enroll Your Puppy in Training Courses:
- Socialization: Puppies need to learn how to interact with other dogs and people. Basic obedience classes provide a controlled environment for your pup to socialize with others. This is especially important for preventing fear and aggression later in life and allows you to be more social too!
- Training: Basic obedience classes are designed to teach your puppy essential skills, such as sit, stay, and come. At Hawk Haven, Gatsby even learned how to ignore other people and dogs, lay down, and how to remain calm when a stranger approaches. These skills are important for both safety and convenience, making it easier for you to manage your pup in different situations.
- Bonding: Enrolling in obedience classes with your puppy allows you to spend quality time together, build trust, and strengthen your relationship. Training also provides an opportunity for positive reinforcement and rewards, which can increase your pup’s eagerness to please you.
- Exercise: Puppies have a lot of energy, and obedience classes provide a fun and stimulating way to burn it off. Your pup will benefit physically and mentally from the exercise and mental stimulation provided by basic obedience training.
- Problem Prevention: Basic obedience classes help prevent common behavior problems, such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking. By teaching your puppy appropriate behavior from an early age, you can avoid these issues before they become habits.
- Professional Guidance: A professional dog trainer, like Marianne, can provide guidance and support as you navigate the challenges of puppyhood. They can also answer any questions you may have about your puppy’s behavior, health, and overall well-being.
Gatsby and I have taken two courses so far– Basic Obedience where he heard his AKC STAR Puppy ribbon and his Basic Obedience Ribbon, and Canine Good Citizen where he earned his Community Dog ribbon, Urban Dog ribbon, and his Canine Good Citizen ribbon. There were times when training was tough, but it also taught me a lot about patience, working hard for the reward, and how to appropriately communicate with my puppy.
While all dogs have the ability to learn, the earlier you can enroll your pup in a basic obedience class with a professional, the better you can set your pup up for a happy and healthy life.
