Importance of Training

As the PPK tagline goes... A well trained dog, makes a better pet.  

Why is Puppy Training so Important

Think about when you first got your puppy and dreamt of all the things you will do with together.  When they are 8 weeks old, they are so cute and cuddly.  This is the most important time to put a foundation on your puppy before they grow into what we call the Obnoxious Stage.  Filling a dogs head with positive behavior will ensure they grow into the dog you want and not the dog that drives you crazy.

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So Obnoxious!!

This is when they try your patience by jumping, chewing, barking and being generally destructive. You may hit them in response because of your frustration (never hit your dog) which if done often enough will cause them to be afraid of your hand.  This teaches them to fear you when what you really want is a relationship based on mutual respect.  If you don't get a handle on the destructive behavior they may end up living outside, in a kennel or even worse you decide to give them up.

Start Training on Day 3

The first few days of owning a new puppy should be all about bonding with them.  Don't do any training, just snuggling and playing.  If they potty where they shouldn't, don't scold them, just clean it up.  If they start being destructive, redirect the undesired behavior to a toy.  When you can't watch them, put them in a crate with a toy and a blanket.  This goes for adopting an adult dog as well. 

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Types of Training

Depending on the type of training and your budget there are a few options each with pros and cons.

Books

Books are an option if you don’t have much to spend.  They provide the basics but come with a few drawbacks.  Books can’t teach proper body language and typically won’t answer all questions. A basic dog training book cost between $10 and $25.  We recommend that you read it cover to cover with a highlighter and tabs in hand.

Group Training

Group Training gives you access to a professional who can teach you the details that a book cannot. A good instructor will give each client some one on one attention but cannot devote the entire class time to one client.  Quality group training usually costs between $500 and $700 for a 10-week course.  An ideal class size is 10-15 people and is 2.5 to 3 hours long.  If you’re interested in group training at the PPK Facility, contact us.

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Private Training

Private Lessons is the best way to go for one on one attention and will yield excellent results but this is typically the most expensive option.  Quality lessons cost between $80 to $150 per session and are 60 to 90 minutes long.  Contact us if you’re interested in private lessons from PPK.

​With both Group and Private Training, it is important to ensure you get a quality instructor.  Ask a few questions:
     What are their methods?
     Where did they learned to train dogs?
     How long have they been training dogs?

The most important thing to remember about puppy training is consistency.  You need to practice often to reinforce the skills they have learned.

At PPK we are developing new training options, so keep your eyes open for their release. 
 
And remember... A well trained dog makes a better pet!
Patrick