Obedience training is a very powerful tool when it comes to pet care. As toddlers, we often find ourselves under the nose of our Mamas and Papas. Little mind trying to learn everything we have in sight: What is that color? What is that thing called? What is a moon? What is a cloud? How should I do this? Where should I pee? Everything that we learn in our younger years has had a significant impact on our lives up to this day.
It is the foundation of our obedience, the very meaning of right and wrong. And if you think only we humans do it in that way, animals also do have one!
Obedience training is what you call the training your pet should undergo once they hit a certain age. It used to be that trainers and veterinarians recommended that puppies begin training classes as soon as they were old enough to have all of their vaccines and boosters. In general, puppies can start socialization classes and obedience training as early as 7-8 weeks of age.
Puppies who undergo obedience training should receive a minimum of one set of vaccines at least 7 days before the first class and a first deworming. They should be kept up to date on all vaccines throughout the whole obedience training class. The idea here is that inadequate socialization during the first two to three months of the puppy’s life can result in behavioral issues (including fears, phobias, avoidance, and aggression) that extend well into the dog’s life.
And if you are thinking if it is a good thing to enroll your little furry friend in an obedience training class, these are some things to give you an insight on what to expect they will learn once they undergo one. And believe me, it is all on the positive side!
Safety
Not only will training your dog to listen to you and respect boundaries keep them safe from the world, but it will also keep your household at less risk. One of the advantages of enrolling your pup in obedience training is storms, fireworks, pedestrians, letter carriers, possible distractions, and dangerous situations happening around your home they know what they have to do! Animals are innately unpredictable, but a dog that comes back when it’s called or can refrain from unwelcome contact can save both of you the heartache of the many accidents that could occur.
Socialization
When most people think of dogs, they have an unrealistic expectation that they will be friendly to everyone it meets. While this may be an innate personality trait of your pet, this is not always the case and can cause devastating problems for strangers and strange dogs. A well-socialized pet, that undergoes obedience training would be a result of training amongst peers, and will know how to respond to what is and is not acceptable behavior so it can more successfully get along with others.
A Closer Bond
You will spend more time with your pet for a cause that will result in a well-trained, obedient, happy, relaxed, and responsive companion after obedience training. Statistically, the easier a pet is to manage, the more pleasure an owner gets from each interaction resulting in a closer relationship.
It’s Fun!
Obedience training doe not have to be a chore! Obedience training is interactive for both you and your dog and creates a stimulating and engaging environment that mixes up everyday mundanity. The training center has plenty of open grass around it for further play socialization before and after training if you so choose. Another benefit is that your dog will wear itself out mentally and physically, so you will leave with a dog ready to relax after a class full of work.
Provides a Solid Base
You may just be teaching them to sit now, but who knows, you may have a competitor on your hands. Basic training in manners and obedience training provides the foundation for any activity you want to accomplish with your dog, including sports and competition scenarios.
Custom Tips From Owners
The opportunity to talk to other pet owners is also a unique benefit to joining classes. Everyone, there is going through or has gone through exactly what you’re trying to prevent or rectify, so it’s the perfect place to get some great training tips and suggestions.
Have any stories and updates on your puppy’s improvement in their obedience training class? Share your insights with us!
