Obedience Class.. Which one to go for??

[Spirit2010]

Ok, so I need some help.. They are both pretty decent, but one uses choke chains, and the other doesn't. The one that uses choke chains is with the AKC, for 5 weeks, $50. They cover basics. The other one is $100, for 6 weeks, and held at the Vet's office. This one also covers basics, and more. This woman is experienced with dogs, and working with them. And to my advantage I know the lady. She is a secretary at my vet's office. But I can't decide. (The class might be a Christmas present from my mom) :p I pretty sure the other doesn't use choke chains, we haven't heard anything else from her, she is supposed to call, when she knows when she is going to hold classes. But, what to look for in a good obedience instructor/class? I want to pick the right one for Whisper, because I want her well socialized, and its a lot funner when your in an obedience class. (excuse my poor grammar) Thank you for reading!

[adojrts]

What do you mean they are with the AKC? I wouldn't sign up with any trainer that puts the entire class on choke chains. That is like a place near me, every dogs starts on chokes and another place every dog has to wear prongs. Good grief.
Find out what the other woman says, ask her what her credentials are. Has she competed and in what, what theroies does she use and what methods?

[houndlove]

That'd be a big NO from me on the choke chains. But find out about the other woman too, because what she does might not be any better.

[Spirit2010]

Very true. We are waiting for her to call us back. Hopefully she'll call us tomorrow. And she does an introduction to the class, before she starts the class.

[Spirit2010]

The one lady uses buckle collars. She prefers those over chokes or prongs. :p Yay! We found someone! And she uses positive methods. She showed me today at the vet, when we were checking out. ;) She was good with Whisper. :)

[houndlove]

That's great news! :D

[Spirit2010]

It will be a small class though. But thats ok. :p 3-5 dogs. It probably won't even be 5. There will still be the distractions though! :D And more time with the students. And easier to get through things. All young dogs, from what I can tell right now. lol Young entergetic dogs.

[Lilavati]

I don't like the all dogs on choke chains bit at all. Chokes aren't really all that safe, and many dogs don't need 'em . . . or would be better off with a different training tool, like a head collar, a chest-fastening harness, a martigale, or even a correctly used prong. Training collars--or the lack there of--should be chosen to suit the situation.

The only reason I can think to require all the dogs to wear a choke is if using it is a critical component of the class . . . and that's not the kind of class you want.

I'd go for the no choke collars myself.

And Adojrts: They require all the dogs to have prongs? That's . . . well, that's nuts. Just . . . nuts. Sigh.

[Spirit2010]

Yep, thats what I'm going for Lilavati, the no choke collars. ;)

[Lilavati]

The one lady uses buckle collars. She prefers those over chokes or prongs. :p Yay! We found someone! And she uses positive methods. She showed me today at the vet, when we were checking out. ;) She was good with Whisper. :)

Oh, seemed to have missed that post :D Good call!

[Spirit2010]

Oh, seemed to have missed that post :D Good call!

Its ok. :)

[adojrts]

I don't like the all dogs on choke chains bit at all. Chokes aren't really all that safe, and many dogs don't need 'em . . . or would be better off with a different training tool, like a head collar, a chest-fastening harness, a martigale, or even a correctly used prong. Training collars--or the lack there of--should be chosen to suit the situation.

The only reason I can think to require all the dogs to wear a choke is if using it is a critical component of the class . . . and that's not the kind of class you want.

I'd go for the no choke collars myself.

And Adojrts: They require all the dogs to have prongs? That's . . . well, that's nuts. Just . . . nuts. Sigh.


Yep, they do and the other places puts young puppies on chokes!!
My classes, small max 6 dogs prefer 4 or 5 and NO chokes or prongs allowed.

[Spirit2010]

Yep, they do and the other places puts young puppies on chokes!!
My classes, small max 6 dogs prefer 4 or 5 and NO chokes or prongs allowed.

Thats just crazy!! :yikes: Puppies on chokes!!!!!! Whoever can't control a puppy with a regular buckle collar, shouldn't have a puppy!

[lizzybeth727]

Here's an article I link to a lot, from apdt.com about how to find a trainer -

Training your dog should be fun! A skilled and professional dog trainer employs humane training methods which are not harmful to the dog and/or handler

A competent instructor will allow and encourage you to observe a class prior to making the decision to enroll. In a well-run class, dogs and people will be enjoying themselves and having a successful learning experience. Look for an instructor who is approachable and who encourages participants to have a good time. If space permits, an instructor should welcome and encourage all family members and others who interact with the dog to attend class.

A skilled class instructor will:

Provide a clear explanation of each lesson.

Demonstrate the behavior(s) that students will be teaching to their dogs.

Provide clear instructions and written handouts on how to teach the behavior(s).

Give students ample time in class to begin practicing the day's lesson.

Assist students individually with proper implementation of techniques.

A skilled and professional trainer will encourage dialogue and be courteous to both canine and human clients alike.

You want to be comfortable with the training tools and methods used by the instructor. A skilled and professional dog trainer employs humane training methods which are not harmful to the dog and/or handler, and avoids the practices of hanging, beating, kicking, shocking, and all similar procedures or training devices that could cause the dog great pain, distress, or that have imminent potential for physical harm. You have the absolute right to stop any trainer or other animal care professional who, in your opinion, is causing your dog undue harm or distress.

A conscientious trainer will stay informed about innovations in dog training and behavior tools and techniques. Check to see if the instructor is a member of any educational organizations such as the APDT, and whether s/he pursues ongoing educational opportunities.

A good instructor will take care to protect your dog's health in a group setting. Ask if dogs and puppies are required to be vaccinated prior to class and, if so, which vaccines are required. Make sure you and your veterinarian are comfortable with the vaccination requirements.

Current clients are a valuable source of information for you. Attending a group class gives you the opportunity to ask clients how they feel about their experience - if they are enjoying the class and feel that their training needs and goals are being met.

Because of variables in dog breeding and temperament and owner commitment and experience, a trainer cannot and should not guarantee the results of his/her training. However, an instructor can and should be willing to ensure client satisfaction with his/her professional services.