Sarah Dixon once rightly said, “The best dog training method is the one the client will actually do.” You could find the best trainer, the best method, the best dog – but your willingness to go the mile is what actually matters when it comes to training your dog. Dog training as a field and a science has evolved at warp speed in the last decade. Modern technologies and evolved mindsets have taken precedence over traditional dog training methods. The best way to train a dog combines positive reinforcement, consistency, patience and a deep understanding of the dog’s temperament and behavior. This article explores the various ways you could rope in a professional trainer for your dog and when should consider them.

How do dogs learn?

Dogs start their learning process from the time they are born. They through a combination of processes that involve observing their environment and the consequence of their actions. Whether you choose virtual training, or board and train or in-home training for your dog, make sure to touch upon these factors when teaching anything new.  

Another way dogs learn is through forming associations with things, people and events around them. For instance, a dog routinely left in the crate only when they’re owners are away will quickly form a negative association with the crate. Similarly, in the process of learning something new, when they’re continually rewarded to perform a certain behavior, they start associating that behavior with something positive and tend to repeat it more often.

Your dog is constantly observing you and learning from you; whether you know it or not. This means that even when you’re not actively training your dog or even interacting with them, they are still inferring things from your body language, tone, facial expressions, activities and so on. Thus, it is important to keep the style of your communication with your dog as natural and authentic as you can. Do not try to adopt a style of training that doesn’t match your inherent personality. It will only confuse your dog further.

What are the 5 golden rules of dog training?

There is no one way to train a dog. Different dogs respond to different techniques and different people resonate with different styles. Find one that suits you and your dog best. Having said that, there are 5 golden rules to remember when it comes to training your dog –

• Set your dog up for success – When we start training our dog for something, we have to remember that dogs don’t speak our language, they have no idea what we’re trying to do and why we’re trying to do it. Remember to break it down in small and lucid steps for them to enable them to get in several successful repetitions in the beginning. Celebrating small wins and rewarding often will keep them motivated to lengthen their stride.
• Never punish – Punishment is essentially a negative outcome of a certain experience or an exercise. We must remember that in any given situation, our dogs are behaving in a way that comes naturally to them. Punishing them for it will only cause more frustration and fear in their head. This does not make for a very conducive learning environment.
• Find what motivates your dog – If you try to lure a play motivated dog with treats, expect to be disappointed and frustrated. Knowing your dog’s instincts and observing their day-to-day preferences will give you a fair idea of what really motivates them. Rewarding them often with the right stuff is important to get results in training.
• Have the right mix of patience and consistency – As a pet parent reading the umpteenth article on dog training, you must have heard this advice a thousand times – Patience and consistency are key to dog training success. Well, it wouldn’t have been repeated so often if it weren’t true!
• Let your dog decide the pace – Cues like Stay, Leave it, Drop it, Come and so on cannot be mastered in a day. It may take several weeks to perfect these commands. Allow your dog to decide when they’re ready to up their game. Moving at a pace that is faster than your dog’s ability to catch up will only make them dread the whole process of training.

Let’s explore the various types of training

In-home dog training

As the name suggests, in-home dog training happens in the comforts of your home. A professional trainer comes home to work with you and your dog based on your training goals. They provide individualized attention, focusing on your dog’s unique needs, temperament, and behavior. Since training occurs in your home, your dog can practice behaviors in real-life situations, such as dealing with your dog barking at the doorbell, counter surfing and so on.

The right time to consider in-home dog training

In-home dog training works best for behaviors that require a hands-on approach. Issues like leash reactivity, territorial aggression, food aggression etc are complex in nature and require a keen eye for detail. It requires the handler to be equipped with the knowledge of observing and responding to subtle dog body language cues. When it comes to dealing with aggression, things can escalate quickly and a small mistake could be detrimental.

Since the training happens right in front of you, you would be learning how to manage and reinforce the right training techniques. This helps ensure consistency in commands and reinforces your role as the leader.

PROS

• Enables real time problem solving. The trainer is able to witness the behaviors themselves and provide real time solutions
• Training takes place in your dog’s home, where they feel most comfortable
• The customized approach helps address specific issues more effectively
• In-home training allows for more flexible scheduling than traditional group classes
• Training at home eliminates the distractions that dogs may face in other environments

CONS

• In-home training can be far more expensive as compared to online or virtual training
• Some behavior modification programs may require more sessions, which may turn out to be an expensive affair
• Your dog may or may not respond well to the trainer
• The trainer’s ideologies may or may not match yours
• In home training provides limited socialization opportunities

Virtual dog training

Virtual dog training takes place online where a professional dog trainer imparts training knowledge via webinars, videos, live sessions, chat and so on. These sessions can be taken remotely from locations where you can get access to internet. Some virtual programs offer pre-recorded lessons whereas some offer live sessions that cover basic obedience, behavioral issues, or specific training goals.

Homeschool by LAY LO offers you both; live sessions with certified trainers as well as a library of resources for you to fall back on. We take pride in being one of the few programs that offer 24*7 chat support with out trainers, so you never feel stuck when a problem arises.

The right time to consider Virtual dog training

Virtual dog training works great for people who have just embarked on their training journey and need a little help in knowing where and how to begin. It also works wonders for dogs who are uncomfortable with anyone else apart from their owners. In virtual training, all the necessary knowledge and information cascades down to the dog via the trainer. Through live sessions, you will receive ample guidance each step of the way while you tray to understand your dog better and build a deeper connection with them.

Basic obedience cues such as Sit, Down, Stay, Leave it, Drop it, Leash walking etc can be effectively covered under virtual training programs.

If you are still thinking about whether or not Virtual training is right for you, book a free evaluation with Homeschool by LAY LO to get further clarity.

PROS

• The biggest pro of Virtual training is the convenience it offers. You can take a virtual training class at home or on the go
• It is cost effective and far more affordable as compared to in-home training sessions or board and train programs
• You can get access to highly qualified professionals remotely
• Virtual trainers can help address a wide range of issues such as basic obedience, trick training, and behavioral problems
• Virtual training allows your dog to learn in the environment where they are at ease
• Since you’d be the one actually training your dog, you end up learning a thing or two about dog behavior and communication too

CONS

• The trainer is not physically present to demonstrate techniques or correct your handling in person. This may lead to a few mistakes every now and then
• Virtual training relies on a stable internet connection. Technical issues may hinder communication
• Owners must take full responsibility for implementing the training techniques correctly and consistently, without which this style of training may not really be a success
• Virtual training does not provide the chance for your dog to interact with other dogs and people in a controlled setting, which may limit socialization opportunities for a pup

Board and train 

Board and train programs are intensive training programs where dogs stay for a set period of time (2 weeks to a month) and undergo professional training. They either stay at the trainer’s home or a facility where they receive daily training sessions multiple times a day. These sessions usually focus on general obedience, leash manners, house training, recall, or addressing specific problematic behaviors like aggression or anxiety. The entire program is handled and monitored by experts. They use proven methods to teach commands, correct behavior, and ensure consistency.

The right time to consider in-home dog training

Board and train is an excellent option to consider when you do not have to know-how to deal with complex behavioral issues such as reactivity, anxiety and aggression. Many people have reported witnessing a “transformed dog” after board and train programs. This is because unlike in-home training (in person or virtual), the dog is continually exposed to training and effective communication for extended periods of time through the day. A qualified trainer will not only focus on training your dog, but also fulfilling their needs and instincts, eventually giving you a well balanced and a confident dog.

PROS

• Good board and train programs not only keep you updated on your dog’s training on a regular basis, but also provide follow up support once your dog returns home
• Regular and continued exposure to effective training and communication will help accelerate results and modify your dog’s behavior in a shorter span of time
• The program allows for concentrated, uninterrupted training
• Dogs with serious behavioral issues like aggression, fear, or reactivity can benefit from professional attention they get at board and train programs
• Owners with busy schedules may not have the time to consistently train their dog. A board and train program takes this burden off the owner

CONS

• Board and train programs cost 4-5 times the cost of in home or virtual training
• Dogs might behave well in the structured setting of the training facility, but transferring those behaviors back to the home environment may require additional training
• Dogs that have strong attachment to their owners may experience stress or anxiety when being left at a training facility. It might take them several days to just get used to the presence of the trainer and the absence of their owner
• Not all trainers use humane, positive reinforcement methods, and some programs may rely on aversive techniques

What about puppy classes and socialization?

Group puppy classes are designed to teach puppies and pet parents basic obedience commands as well focus on healthy and supervised socialization. They are excellent options for new pet parents who are looking to train their dogs themselves in the near future and want to build a deeper connection with their pups.

Puppies not only learn the right way to interact and play with other dogs and people, but also learn to focus on their humans amidst distractions. These classes expose your dog to new environments, sounds, and textures, helping them adapt to new situations without fear or anxiety. This helps build a great foundation for general obedience and environment neutrality in dogs.

Trainers monitor interactions between puppies and step in to teach appropriate play and correct bad behavior, ensuring a positive learning experience. Training in class helps you reinforce good behavior at home, making your puppy more responsive to your commands and guidance.

Hiring a professional vs training your dog yourself

To pay or not to pay for a professional dog training consultation is the question! There is so much information available out there that it is hard to resist trying those tips and tricks at home. Furthermore, when we see even the smallest successes, it gives us the confidence we need to continue training our dogs ourselves in the convenience of our home.

While this approach may work for basic obedience training, simple dog enrichment and trick training, tackling complex behavioral issues can be a little more challenging than that. A professional comes in with expert guidance and deep insights on dog behavior and instincts that are hard to find on Google. Their expertise can not only accelerate your training process and keep you on the right track but will also help prevent mistakes and potential escalations. When dealing with aggression or anxiety cases, even the tiniest of mistake may set you back by a few steps in your training journey.

If you’re still confused about whether or not to go for professional dog training, book your first free evaluation with Homeschool by LAY LO and get an insight for yourself.

In conclusion

Training your dog provides essential opportunities for learning, exposure, and development that will positively shape your dog's behavior, confidence, and relationship with you for years to come. Choosing the right training style for your dog depends on their personality, your training goals, and your personal preferences. Choose right!

Author Bio: Siddhika is a certified dog trainer, behaviorist, and professional pet writer. Over the course of her dog training career, she has gained 3 certifications accredited by KCAI (Kennel Club Accredited Instructors) in the field of dog training and behavior, viz - Basic obedience course, Therapy Dog Training Course and Canine Aggression Course. She has the qualifications and experience in the theoretical as well as real-life applications of science-based dog training techniques.

With the expertise to write about a plethora of dog-related topics and a personal interest in dog cognition and behavior, Siddhika is an out-and-out canine nerd.