Congrats on your new puppy! Now it’s time to set your puppy up for a long life of joy. Lots of puppy guardians think of puppy classes as a first step, but I would even go as far as to say it is an essential.
Keep reading to find out why.
Puppy classes are a great way to learn the basics and prepare a good foundation for your puppy well into adulthood. The critical socialization window is between 2-12 weeks of age and it is crucial your puppy has a variety of good experiences during these weeks. Don't leave their adult personality to chance; prepare for it all with puppy classes with a certified professional dog trainer.
It is really important that positive reinforcement dog training methods are included in these puppy classes so they can become part of your repertoire. You want to focus on creating a good relationship based on trust and steer away from punishing your puppy. This is something all ethical dog training professionals will agree on.
Why winging it just won’t cut it
Here are a few reasons why winging it when you get a new puppy may not benefit you in the long run:
1. It may take twice as long for you to reach your training goals with your new puppy or you may not reach them at all.
2. You may miss the critical socialization window which can lead to other behaviour challenges later in life.
3. You aren't sure what to work on with your specific puppy or you may think the focus should be on something when really it should be on something else
4. Your certified dog behaviour professional may be able to spot potential behaviour challenges by observing what your puppy is doing now. These can otherwise go missed.
Benefits of joining puppy classes
There are so many benefits of joining a puppy class with your new puppy. It’s not just fun and games; it's functional too.
1. Learn crucial training skills and mechanics that won't just benefit your current dog, but all of the dogs you share your life with in the future
2. You will learn positive ways to reinforce behaviours you see; doing this will strengthen the bond you have with your puppy as well.
3. Socialization is quality over quantity; puppy class is a great environment for puppy play in a safe and controlled setting.
4. Take the guess work out of training your puppy! Which behaviours will be important for your lifestyle? How can we set them up for this lifestyle now?
5. You now have a relationship with a dog trainer who you can continue to work with you throughout your dog’s life if the need arises. And BONUS, they are already familiar with you and your puppy.
Check out our monthly puppy classes in Squamish, BC at twobluetails.com