Which Type Of Dog Training Is Right For You?

dogs at training session

Does your dog behave perfectly in every situation? If the answer to that question is “no”, then it is likely that you’ve given some consideration to a dog training program for your pup (if the answer is “yes”, then congratulations!). 

Perhaps you have recently acquired a new puppy, or maybe you have owned your dog for a while but haven’t had the opportunity to proceed with a training program. Although many programs focus on behavior, you might even want to teach your dog a skill or take part in a new activity. The options available are extensive, but deciding which dog training program is the best fit for you can be difficult.

At Highland Canine Training, we offer a range of different dog training services to suit the needs of our clients. Our programs have been developed and refined over a number of years, with our proven training methods helping thousands of dog owners across the United States.

If you know that your dog needs some form of training, but you’re unsure exactly which class or program is best, then this article is designed with you in mind! We’ll offer an overview of our most commonly offered dog training classes to help you determine which is right for you and your pup.

Private Lessons

Private lessons involve one of our professional dog trainers to come to your home once per week, usually for a series of six sessions (seven for our advanced program). After an initial free evaluation, our trainers will provide you with a personalized training program to accomplish your dog training goals. We offer three types of private lesson dog training programs – basic, advanced and behavior modification.

In the basic program, your dog will learn commands such as sit, stay, down, heel, come and place. The commands are taught on-leash. You will also learn how to correct troublesome behaviors such as jumping, barking or counter-surfing. Sessions can even be arranged to take place on walks out in your local neighborhood, so your dog learns how to cope with environmental distractions.

The advanced program – a seven-week course – is designed to teach your dog to perform commands reliably off-leash. Lessons can also be arranged to take place at locations where you take your dog out in public, such as dog parks, urban centers or home improvement stores. As an owner, this offers you complete confidence and control of your dog in a variety of environments.

Our behavior modification program is designed for dogs who have behavioral problems such as biting, fighting, dominance or fear aggression. Our certified trainers have built a reputation for successfully resolving behavioral issues – we pride ourselves on the fact that no behavior is too difficult to be rehabilitated! These lessons typically last six weeks, although may require additional lessons depending on the severity of the issue.

private lesson dog training

These sessions also allow you to ask other questions and seek advice from our experienced trainers on any number of dog training topics. Individualized attention means you can truly focus on the information that is important to your situation.

As part of our private lesson programs, our trainers will outline ‘homework’ for you to complete each week. Although our trainers can cover a lot of ground in one hour each week, to get the most out of the program, it is essential for the work to continue during the rest of the week to maintain the desired behaviors.

Advantages:

  • Private lessons take place in the comfort of your own home
  • Individual, tailored training plans to suit you and your dog
  • One-on-one access to a certified, professional trainer to help resolve problematic behaviors

In Kennel Training

Our In Kennel Training programs involve your dog spending a period of time at one of our dedicated kennel facilities under the tutelage of our professional trainers. Your dog will receive daily attention from our trainers, in addition to having the opportunity to interact with other dogs in a safe and controlled environment. If you lead a busy lifestyle or are heading for a vacation, our In Kennel dog training programs may be a perfect solution.

Our basic In Kennel program lasts for three weeks. Your dog will learn basic commands on-leash such as sit, down, stay, come, place and heel. Our trainers will also work on any other minor issues your dog may have, such as jumping, pulling or barging out the door.

Our advanced In Kennel program also lasts for three weeks and works well for dogs who have previously been through the basic program (or an equivalent). In this program, your dog will learn commands off-leash, offering you complete control when you pick them up. A Dogtra remote training collar is included with our advanced program.

Our Boot Camp program is our most popular In Kennel training option. This course lasts for six weeks, covering on and off-leash commands. The six week period for our Boot Camp program allows us to build a solid foundation and work at the dog’s pace. This program also allows our trainers to resolve any serious behavioral issues such as biting, fighting, snapping or phobias. A Dogtra remote training collar is also included with this program.

board and train in kennel dog training

At the conclusion of our In Kennel training programs, you’ll have a one-on-one session with your trainer. They will show you the behaviors the dog has learned and offer instruction on how to maintain them. Your trainer will also provide a video of your dog’s training which you can refer back to in the future.

Advantages:

  • Your dog will receive daily attention and training from a professional dog trainer
  • The increased time spent with your dog means our trainers can build solid behavioral foundations
  • Ideal if you lead a busy lifestyle or are unable to commit to weekly training sessions

Group Classes

From time to time, our trainers will offer group classes at our locations throughout the United States (check our calendar for the latest information). 

Our group classes offer exceptional dog training at a very affordable price. Our group obedience class is our most popular group class – this class will help you to master the basic commands and gain an understanding of how dogs learn. In addition, we also offer specialist puppy classes, search and rescue classes and scent work classes (among others). The majority of our group classes usually take place once per week for six weeks.

agility dogs

Due to the nature of group classes, these classes are not suitable for dogs with significant behavioral problems. Our private lesson and In Kennel programs are better suited for you, as they offer your dog the individual attention he or she needs to overcome these behavioral issues.

In addition to teaching your dog valuable skills, our group classes are fun for both you and your pup! They provide a safe way to socialize your dog in a controlled environment in the presence of a certified trainer.

Advantages:

  • Cost-effective option dogs without behavioral problems
  • Fun and enjoyable group atmosphere with like-minded dog owners
  • Opportunity to socialize your dog with other pups in a controlled environment

Specialized Training

Do you want to pursue a new activity with your dog or teach them a new skill? Are you thinking of getting involved in search and rescue (SAR), or do you think your dog could be trained as a protection dog? Our specialized dog training programs are designed to help you achieve your goals.

sar dog on asphalt

If you already own a dog who you think would be a suitable candidate for your desired activity, we will carry out an initial evaluation of your dog’s drive to check they would be a good fit. If your dog passes our evaluation, we will create a customized training plan and work with you and your dog to accomplish your goals.

There are many benefits to taking part in specialized dog training. Many dogs need a hobby or job to prevent boredom, which can often lead to destructive behavior in some breeds. Training your dog in a new skill can offer them the physical and mental stimulation they require to stay active and live a fulfilled, happy life.

Advantages:

  • Teaches your dog a new skill and improves their confidence
  • Builds the bond between you and your dog
  • Offers your dog physical/mental stimulation to alleviate boredom

In conclusion

The requirements of every dog – and their owners – are different. Time, lifestyle, location and endless other factors will dictate the most suitable training solution for your dog.

At Highland Canine Training, we are proud of the dog training programs we have developed for our clients. We understand that your circumstances are unique. Our mix of dog training programs is designed to meet your needs.

If you’re weighing up your dog training options, we hope this guide has helped. However, we understand that you may still have questions! Get them answered today by reaching out to our trainers in your location, or contact our head office for more details.