Are Dog Training Classes Worth It?

Many new dog owners look to the classic dog training group class to help them train their dogs. As a dog trainer, one of the most common questions I get from new dog owners is “Are group classes worth it?”

To that question I can say, No. I don’t believe group classes are a great option for new owners to learn how to train, control, manage, communicate, or build a good working relationship with their dogs. Group classes do have some strengths and benefits but I believe their downsides outweigh those benefits to a new dog owner, specifically those with a dog that has not gone through any prior training.

Group classes normally have a single trainer running the class, which means they cannot give individualized attention to one of their 10 student groups who might be struggling without ignoring the rest of the class.

I think that owners would benefit the most from individual attention in a private lesson. Private lessons allow a trainer to focus solely on the team in front of them without having to fracture their focus between other clients, and instead of having to cover a generalized curriculum meant to address many, a private lesson allows trainers to get into the exact details of the specific issues a single client wants & needs to address.

Once a client has gone through some private lessons and achieved reasonable understanding, communication, and control within the dog and trainer team I think Group Classes can offer some real benefit in the realm of distractions and generalizing behavior.

I have had far too many clients get removed from or asked to leave group classes over the years. FOR PRECISELY THE REASONS THEY SOUGHT OUT TRAINING TO BEGIN WITH! Their dogs weren’t capable of being under control, and were disruptive or dangerous to themselves or others.

So if you’re a new dog owner who is looking to set you and your dog up for success in the future, skip the group classes and get some private lessons. A solid foundation beats the chaos of group classes every time.