Whether you’re deciding to become a dog owner or already a dog owner, one of the most crucial steps to becoming a responsible dog owner is teaching them basic training. As a company based in Las Vegas, we’re going to share more about Las Vegas training classes and what your options look like. Basic training teaches your dog foundational skills and socialization which is vital to their needs. The good news is there are countless options to ensure you’re being a responsible dog owner and providing your dog with essential life skills through Las Vegas training classes.
As dedicated trainers with a passion for helping dogs and their owners build strong bonds, we're here to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Michael’s Angel Paws dog obedience training. So whether you're a new dog owner or looking to refine your old dogs skills (because we believe you can teach an old dog new tricks), we're here to answer all your questions and guide you through the steps.
Training Your Dog By Yourself
It is vital to train your dogs and one popular question is if you can effectively train your dogs by yourself without professional help. We think this can be possible, but it is important to consider several factors. The perks of training your dog yourself is that it is convenient because you can work at your own pace and schedule sessions to fit your lifestyle, and it can be more cost-effective than formal classes.
However, there are challenges to DIY training. You can run into complex issues like past trauma that may be challenging to address without professional guidance. Professional dog trainers are experienced in understanding dogs behaviors and common issues that may arise with training. Dogs communicate and respond differently, and it may be difficult to understand what your dog needs without formal education or experience. Professional dog trainers have that expertise and can tailor training to fit your dog’s personality and needs as well as catch subtle undesired behaviors that most people don’t realize are an issue.
It is also vital to use reliable training techniques and resources and consistently train your dogs. It is easy to get overwhelmed with educating yourself and trying to stay consistent. Dog training classes mean you won’t have to shift through information and can have a professional set clear goals for what behaviors your dogs need to learn.
Enrolling Your Dog Into Group Classes for Basic Training
Enrolling your dog in group classes offers many benefits and there are some great options in Las Vegas for dog training classes. By enrolling your dog into group classes, you provide them an opportunity to interact with other dogs in a controlled environment, helping them develop crucial social skills and appropriate behaviors around unfamiliar dogs and people.
Group classes offer a structured learning environment led by experienced professionals. These professionals, like our Michael’s Angel Paws trainers, provide guidance and support using positive reinforcement methods. Which means you don’t have to go through trial and error methods that many owners face with DIY training. Professional dog trainers have the skills to adapt the training to meet you and your dog’s specific needs.
Group classes also offer external stimuli like other dogs, noises, etc that replicate real-life situations in a controlled environment. This gives your dog the environment to adjust to these distractions in a safe setting monitored by a professional who can intervene when needed. Lastly, our favorite part is that group classes create a supportive community where you can share experiences, tips, and successes with fellow dog owners.
Choosing the Right Class
Choosing the right obedience training class for your dog depends on several factors, including their age, temperament, and current skill level. If you have a puppy or a dog that's new to training, we recommend a beginner class like our Foundation For Obedience, classes like these will teach your dogs the basic commands they will need in their daily life.
For dogs with previous training experience or know basic skills, we recommend classes that provide them with more of a challenge like our Advanced Obedience class, a Rally class, or an Agility class so they can strengthen their basic commands and learn skills that we make them more confident, develop a deeper bond with their owner, and be trained for more unexpected situations.
How Much Training Should You Do
It is important to remember that how long it takes to train and teach a dog a new skill varies by the dog and their owner. Factors like previous training, past traumas, breed, consistency at home, etc can all affect how much time it takes for a dog to learn basic obedience. We typically do an hour a week for 5 weeks to teach dogs basic obedience training.
How To Pick a Dog Trainer
We know it can be hard to pick a dog trainer, especially when a good dog trainer makes all the difference.
Some tips we have are looking for a trainer who uses a method you agree with. For example, we use positive reinforcement-based training that focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones because we find it fosters a trusting and respectful relationship between you and your dog.
Next, you’ll want to consider the trainer's experience and qualifications. Look for certifications from reputable organizations. Don't hesitate to ask your vet for their recommendations or reach out to a trainer to ask about their experience, past clients, and qualifications. By taking these factors into account, you can select a dog trainer who will provide the support and guidance you and your dog need.
Conclusion
Investing in basic training for your dog is a crucial step toward responsible pet ownership. Fortunately, there are numerous options available to ensure you provide your dog with essential life skills they need.
While training your dog yourself is feasible, it's important to recognize the challenges and consider seeking professional guidance when needed. Professional trainers offer invaluable expertise, tailored training programs, and a supportive environment to help you and your dog succeed.
Group classes, in particular, provide a structured learning environment, opportunities for socialization, and a supportive community of fellow dog owners. When choosing a dog trainer, prioritize those who use positive reinforcement-based methods, possess relevant certifications, and come highly recommended. By selecting the right trainer and investing in quality training, you'll strengthen the bond with your dog and set them up for a lifetime of obedience and happiness.
About Our Las Vegas Dog Training Classes
Michael’s Angel Paws offers a variety of training options for dogs in the Las Vegas area. Our training philosophy is based on positive reinforcement while adhering to the ethical standards of training with Least Invasive Minimally Aversive technique (LIMA). We focus on rewarding the behavior you want while ignoring the bad behaviors through reward base training.
We are a team of dedicated canine coaches that believe every dog is unique! Therefore, our philosophy for training is just as unique as your pup, no matter the age or the breed. Our goal is to help you understand your dog's personality and build a positive relationship through communication to live a well-balanced life together.
We have individual training classes, group classes, and also virtual sessions but our group classes in Las Vegas are definitely the most popular! It’s crucial for dogs to be around other dogs to really be socialized, build relationships, and practice skills that they’ll use when they’re out and about daily.
Curious to learn more? Give us a call or visit our website! We’d love to spend some time with you and your dog in Las Vegas!