The importance of structure for dog training classes
Here at WitsEnd, we believe that structure is crucial in order for dog training classes to be successful. Structure is the key to tackling many of the problems that owners experience with their pets, such as pulling on the lead, not coming when called or leaving when told to do so.
All of our dog training classes therefore are well structured with set learning outcomes for each week. We believe that the best way to provide a proper education for our owners and dogs is to have lesson plans for each class. This ensures progression and at the end of the course everything is comprehensively covered. Everybody on the course starts and finishes together so there are not weeks when new dogs randomly turn up as this can be disruptive and hold back learning. So, if you want to take part in one of our dog training classes you will need to phone and book onto the next available course. You cannot just join in half way through. Not all dog training classes are the same – some dog trainers have “roll on roll off” classes where everything changes each week and where owners can just turn up with their dogs.
When owners first bring their dogs to training classes, both the dog and owner can be quite nervous and anxious, but because the courses are well structured it relieves and contains that anxiety. If the owner is anxious and stressed, the dog may pick up on that and be anxious and stressed too. It is important that both are happy.
Our classes are structured as follows:
- 35 – 40 minutes training
- Health check each others dogs to get them used to being handled
- 10 minute coffee break for owners and rest time for dogs
- 10 minute playtime
The owners know the structure, and the dogs get to know the structure pretty quickly too, so they know exactly what’s coming next. Nothing random is thrown at them and they quickly learn what is expected of them which is vital for a relaxed fun environment.
For more information about our dog training classes, please visit https://www.witsend4pets.co.uk/, read our article “Dog training: what you need to know”, or call us on 0116 244 2455.