Why bring my dog to a training class? I've had dogs before!

So many people ask why the average pet dog needs training. "Normal dogs don't need training," they think. "That's only for aggressive or destructive dogs. And I've had dogs all my life!"  The truth is, even family dogs need some training.

You've probably driven for most of your life, too. But when the car breaks down or needs preventative maintenance, don't you take it to a mechanic?

The most common cause of death in dogs under one year of age is misbehavior. Over ninety percent of all dogs surrendered to shelters, given away, or euthanized have had no training at all.  All dogs need to know basic manners, and it's nice if your dog is prepared for the unexpected. Even if your dog is generally well-behaved, is he ready for all that life holds?

If a visitor holds open the front door too wide and your pup escapes, will he come when you call?  Do you frequently put the dog outside or in another room when you have company over, because it's "just easier?"  Does your dog bark or ignore you when he encounters distractions such as new people, strange dogs, or anything else that pulls his attention away from you?

Training is one of the single most valuable gifts you'll ever give your pet. The number one reason for dogs being surrendered to shelters and animal control is behavior problems. More than five million dogs are euthanized each year at shelters and vet clinics, sentenced to death for behaviors which could have been remedied or prevented with a little time and effort.

A dog is far, far more likely to die of behavior problems than of parvo -- and we vaccinate for parvo!  Think of early training as a "misbehavior vaccination."  Please practice a little prevention for the health and sanity of you both!