What to look for in a puppy class
A good puppy class builds confidence and skills. Here's what to look for, what to ask and which red flags to avoid.
Read moreYou don't need hours a day. Short, consistent sessions do most of the work.
A realistic daily plan
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Morning (10 to 15 min) | Walk plus a few minutes of loose-leash and sit/down practice |
| Midday | A walker, neighbor or sitter break; a food puzzle if you can't be home |
| Evening (10 to 15 min) | Short training session; play; settle on a mat |
| Weekend | A longer outing for new places and socialization |
Tips
- Train in the course of daily life: sit before meals, wait at doors
- Use meal times as training time
- Consider a trainer for coaching, not for doing all the work
- Don't skip alone-time training if you leave your dog for long stretches
This article is general information, not veterinary, legal or professional training advice. If your dog has a health or safety concern, contact your veterinarian or a qualified behavior professional.
Keep reading
What happens in a first dog training session?
From intake questions to homework: what to expect at a first lesson, and how to know whether the trainer is a good fit.
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7 signs a dog trainer is using outdated methods
Alpha talk, collar corrections, 'quick fixes': the red flags that suggest a trainer is relying on outdated or aversive methods.
Read moreCompare trainers
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