PetSmart Puppy Class

CooperMom · 01-18-2007, 08:56 PM

We're looking into taking our new puppy (not even at home yet...he's only 5 weeks old) to the Puppy Class at PetSmart. I was just wondering if others had been through this class and what they thought? I know it somewhat depends on the trainer....would we be better off looking into classes at a local place?

Curbside Prophet · 01-18-2007, 09:00 PM

I would call around and get a description of what other training facilities offer, their methods, and compare that to PetSmart's plan. Asking for references is also a good idea too.

mistyinca · 01-18-2007, 09:27 PM

It just depends on how good their trainers are. I've got Chloe enrolled in a puppy class at Petsmart right now. Our trainer is really good. The class is a fun way to spend time with your dog.

DoggyMoments · 01-18-2007, 10:24 PM

Gizmo is enrolled in intermediate puppy class at PetSmart (Wyomissing, PA). He really enjoys it and he's doing very well, we certainly feel it is worth the time and money. It does absolutely depends on your trainer. We started Gizmo @ 12 wks old and he was so excited everything was new. It was a major ADHD case, we couldn't get him to pay attention to anything. We felt very frustrated because at home he focused very well and at puppy class he was a mad dog. Our first trainer was very nice and thought Gizmo was very smart. She would come to Gizmo and since she was a new person he'd be excited and listen to her and do what she asked. And continue to pay no attention to us.

We did end up being drop outs due to the fact that puppy class interfered with our wedding and Honeymoon. (Gizmo was the ring bearer!!)

Part of the reason I would lean towards PetSmart is that they back up their classes. (If you're not happy with results, keep going to class) We were half way through our beginner puppy class and they allowed us to enter a brand new class and start over.

Our new trainer did seem much more knowledgable. The very first class we told her our problem and she said, "Here, put the treat right infront of his face so he knows you have it". She also had us get the type of treat he likes the most so he won't get distracted by passerbyers with better treats. From then on we've had our dogs complete attention at all times. Why monday they had him jumping through hoops. One of the smallest dogs jumping higher then any of the bigger dogs!!

I don't know if any of your local places have good reputations, but you can talk to the trainers at PetSmart, find out when they work and what their experience is. I think it's nice to have some level of guarantee. Although nothing replaces a really good trainer. What ever you do have fun! It will be a bonding experience and no matter what you choose. Bring patience, a smile and sense of humor and you'll have a blast!
(oh and when you graduate they take your doggy pic and hang it up, lol)

Hope this helps
~Cheryl

PitBullLover08 · 01-19-2007, 04:05 PM

I wouldnt rely on Petmsart training classes to perfect obediance however I liked it because it is a easy fun class where you do learn the basics ( as long as you practice them more at home) but mostly becasue it provides great early socialization for the pups with a distracting environment.
The down side is that you dont get much one on one time and other shoppers stop and intrrupt class to pet the puppies. But if you are a serious dog owner you will plan on taking a couple of classes, I highly reccomend petsmart for the first so the dogs can get the hang of it and then look into different more experienced trainers for the next classes!

nrhareiner · 01-19-2007, 07:15 PM

I would think it would vary from place to place.

We have a petsmart around here but I am going to do the puppy classes at out local AKC club they have their own building and offer so much. They even offer fun obidiance and agility shows and show classes and much more.

Will be a good place to learn and practice skills I already have. Plus cost wise it is very competative and they encorage people to come and check it out beforhand.

Heidi

SkiGirl · 01-22-2007, 09:09 PM

I am taking mine next month so i will let you know lol but so far it seems good

sheltieluver · 01-23-2007, 04:53 PM

I agree. It would have to depend on the trainer. My brother went through it with his dog and didn't care for it or get the results he was expecting. A co-worker went through it and loved it and is continuing on to the intermediate class.

aero4ever · 01-25-2007, 09:59 AM

I did the intermediate class and while I liked the time I spent with my dog and being in a class with other owners and their dogs, I didn't care too much for the class. We spent ALOT of time walking around the store doing the heal command, staying or having them sit out in the store and ignore distractions. Felt that it didn't teach me anything I wasn't already doing on my own. Not sure if this was a standard for their classes or if the instructor comes up with the training schedule.