From what I’ve read, seems that a number of folks take their dogs to well marketed obedience classes (Petsmart anyone?) that cost at least around $100 for six 1 hour classes. Where I live, they actually cost $140 for six classes. Well, there is an alternative, generally every state has a number of American Kennel Club (AKC) local chapters. These AKC chapters offer a variety of dog interests, but my favorite is obedience. In my state, a 13 week class costs $40–MUCH better than the private offerings. So before you sign Fido up for private schooling, consider AKC chapters in your area. Here’s a link to search the AKC site for local chapters near you.
Kira
July 26, 2006 at 7:59 am
I would also be inclined to think that the AKC people are probably more experienced – I don’t know where PetsMart gets their trainers from. But that’s a pretty good deal. I also don’t think that six weeks of training is enough for a lot of dogs.
freedumb
July 26, 2006 at 11:17 am
Kira, that’s true! Brownie and I have been through 2 13 week sessions, and both instructors have 4 or 5 dogs! They love dogs, no doubt, and they don’t get paid (all volunteer) at least in my local chapter! Pretty cool if you ask me. Besides, training never stops…so the more weeks you can get in with the dog the better. My vet told me that every dog owner should at least spend 1 hour of class for every year of life for the dog…That’s way too short imo. But I guess that’s better than nothing.
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