- As opposed to dog training programs through the local pet store, top dog training schools provide a wide array of dog training classes. Basic obedience and advanced obedience training are still the most sought after classes, but other courses--such as personal or home protection and disability assistance training--are also on the curriculum schedule. Well run dog training schools provide a variety of classes that focus on one training aspect rather than packing too many activities into one set of lessons. For example, the Ahimsa Dog Training Center in Seattle has received a number of awards for its puppy training, dog training and private dog training classes that focus on solving behavioral problems on a one-on-one basis with an animal behaviorist. Four to five one-hour sessions cost between $125 and $170. Individual two hour workshops center on specific behaviors, such as jumping or loose leash walking, and are priced at $39 to $60.
- In addition to basic and advanced dog training, top dog training schools also provide ancillary services, such as boarding, grooming, nutritional counseling and in some cases veterinary services. If the school accepts working dogs, a much needed ancillary service is the quarterly vet and trainer checkup to ensure that the dog is not working beyond its capabilities.
- Lessons offered should encourage positive owner and dog interaction. This requires the instructor to be focused about the lesson, demonstrate the behavior the animal is to learn and also the means by which the owner can enforce it. Top dog training schools keep classes small enough that each human/canine trainee pair receives personal attention and, if needed, individual review of behavior training exercises. In some cases, these top dog training schools have set up extensive online training modules for dog owners. For example, Cesar Millan has developed an extensive online community that provides intensive online training opportunities and community interactivity for dog owners who need help with an aggressive or insecure dog. The costs are kept reasonably low at only $12.50 per month for dog owners who sign up for a one-year training commitment.
- Dog training received a bad reputation when consumers discovered that some trainers inflicted pain on the animals they were training. This is unacceptable in the field of dog training, and top dog training schools do not employ techniques such as shock collaring, kicking and cattle prodding to entice dogs to learn new behaviors. Research the top dog training schools you are considering for your canine and cross-check them with the Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors (see Resources below) that provides peer reviews and certification of qualified institutions.
- Dog training schools are not immune to controversy. Seattle's Ahimsa dog training blog (see Resources below) takes Cesar Millan, the well-known "dog whisperer" from television, to task for his training techniques. Referring to his methodology as outdated and harsh, Millan's Dog Psychology Center (see Resources below) nonetheless has a huge following that appreciates his effective methods of staying calm and assertive.
