Choosing the right training class isn’t always easy though. How can you tell which classes are the best? What should you look out for in a training class? Below are some guidelines for choosing the best training class for your dog.

1. While an important aspect of a training class is allowing your dog to socialise with other dogs, the main reason you are there is for training. Be wary of classes which seem to be more about socializing than actual training.
2. Like human schools, the fewer dogs per teacher the better. Try to go to a class with no more than 10-12 dogs and a maximum of five dogs per teacher.
3. Asking your friends, family and vet is a great way to get a recommendation for a training class.
4. Never dive straight into a class before you know what it’s like. Go along to one session without your dog just to check how well organised it is.
5. Ask the instructors at the class about their experience and background. The best class teachers will have an extensive knowledge of training your specific breed.

These are some general guidelines for choosing the right class, but the best way to find a great class is to see which ones other people have had success with. If other dog owners have been to a class and it’s really helped with their training then go and watch a session.

Remember, training classes should be in addition to your own training and not as a substitute. You can’t expect your class instructor to train your dog for you but they will help guide you in the right direction. Training at home is vital for success.

Dogs are also classed as pure-bred or mixed-breed. A pure-bred is a dog whose ancestors are all of the same breed, while a mixed breed dog has parents of different breeds.

The breed of your dog determines many things such as size, appearance and even personality. Spend time picking the right breed for you and your family.

Toy Breeds
Examples: Chihuahua, Pug and Yorkshire Terrier
Description:
Toy dogs are usually small and live for a relatively long time. They have been bred as human companions, and as such make great pets. In general they require the least amount of exercise of any of the main groups.

Sport Breeds
Examples: Labrador and Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel
Description:
These dogs were originally bred for use in hunting or sports (as the name suggests). Because of this they require a lot of exercise – but are also very intelligent.

Terrier Breeds
Examples: Scottish Terrier, Miniature Schnauzer
Description:
Terriers were originally bred for hunting small animals. Because of this they are lively dogs. Sometimes a little too lively for owners to cope with!

Hound Breeds
Examples: Beagle, Basset Hound, Greyhound
Description:
The hound group of dogs have been bred to hunt – either by site, scent or both. All require reasonable amounts of exercise. They are generally good natured and affectionate.

Herding Breeds
Examples: German Shepherd, Collie
Description:
These dogs were originally used on farms to herd livestock so are intelligent and easily trained. They are often friendly dogs (although there are exceptions). They require a lot of daily exercise.

Working Breeds
Examples: Boxer, Rottweiler
Description:
Working dogs are exceptionally strong, powerful and clever. They usually make fantastic and loyal pets, but do require experience. They are not a good choice for a young family pet because of their size. They need a lot of exercise.

Non-Sporting Breeds
Examples: Poodle, Bulldog
Description:
These are dogs that don’t specifically fit into the other groups. Because of this there is a wide range of personalities, sizes, appearance and behaviours associated with this group. If you do decide to go with a non-sporting dog then make sure you research your particular breed thoroughly.