Through experience and learning, dogs are more successful in learning when it can be rewarded 90% of the time when learning a new behavior.  Then, once it knows well what is being expected, distractions and other elements can be added gradually.  With time, rewards are being faded so the dog won’t depends on rewards to obey.  Knowing that dogs need to be successful in order to learn something new, it is in the dog and owner’s best interest to start the training program where the dog is set up for success.  The training should be done where the dog is comfortable such as at home and with no distraction; otherwise, the dog has little chance to be successful.  Therefore, group class settings is not ideal.

In group class settings, dogs are being distracted by too many elements to be able to be rewarded  90% of the time.  In addition, dog owners trying to get their dogs’ attention will often pull or jerk on the leash (positive punishment) which should never be used when acquiring new behaviors— dogs cannot be punished for what they don’t know.  Because of all these reasons, a few things can happen in group class settings such as “avoidance behavior” where the dogs’ desire to perform is decreased, and stress for both the dog owner and the dog that can lead to dog aggression.  If your dog is not the aggressor, it can be the victim! Also in group settings, instructors generally don’t address personal issues in enough details to curtail or eliminate unwanted behaviors that you may have with your pet (sometimes, causing to worsen the issues).  Some trainers who give both, private and group classes, may give incomplete information on your issues with your pet in order to sell you later on private lessons as well.  Socialization for your dog is extremely important but it should be done in a more relaxed, positive environment.  Unfortunately, improper or lack of training often result in dogs being re-homed; or worst, euthanized each year.

Private reward-based dog training in Los Angeles: general dog obedience and behavior modification