To think this dog training course was ridiculously overpriced!

[Bartyy]

Recent bought a 6 week puppy training course for £95. Only it turned out that it wasn’t 6 weeks at all, first week was “a chat” without dogs present - all which could have been done via email. What followed was 5 one hour classes.

First week focussed on “sit” and “down”. Every puppy in the class already knew “sit” but still we were asked to practice it with our pups for 10 - 10 minutes. Two dogs in the group (my own included) are highly intelligent and after 3 repetitions of this started getting bored and frustrated. The bloke then talked about random shit for 15 minutes ... dogs becoming more and more irritable and then we worked on “down”. Most dogs got this within 5 minutes yet, 20 minutes later we’re still doing it. And that was it, first class over. Both commands my dog already knew.

The rest of the classes were the same. Very basic stuff that a lot of us had taught at home on our own. 2 commands per class and a hell of a lot of pointless talking.

I feel a bit ripped off! I want to do the kennel club awards but this place is asking us to complete their advanced training class first ... I’ve looked at it and it’s just more of the same basic stuff

Anyone?

Did you not ask the course content in advance?

Basic commands are used to teach an approach to training and repeated to embed the approach in the owners - most dog behaviour problems arise from inappropriate husbandry.

I’m confused why you’d go to basic training classes if you already know how to train your dog

I paid £60 for a 6 week course and gave up after 2. Ridiculously overcrowded and I didn't feel I wasn't learning anything that I couldn't learn from a YouTube video. I would rather spend that money on a 1-2-1 lesson from a qualified trainer.

I don't think the cost is outrageous - perhaps on the high side but it does depend where in the country you are.

Ditto the chat without dogs is not unusual and I;ve known a few places do this. I think it's quite a good idea, if done right.

The organisaton does sound poor. Puppies get bored so easily and it is a good idea to give people other things they can practice while waiting - such as placing different textures and surfaces around the room so you can introduce your puppy to them.

Classes should also be kept small to reduce the risking of people sitting around waiting for others (among other reasons).

Ultimately, you do more damage to dog learning by sticking with the wrong class so sometimes it's better to cut your losses, accept the loss of money and find somewhere that suits you better.