Who Needs Puppy School?

I met someone with a gorgeous 5mth old mixed breed puppy on the weekend.  I asked all the usual questions (as I’m crazy about dogs), where they sourced him, etc.  However when I asked what they’d been doing with him and whether they’d taken him to puppy school the response was, “No. He’s quite intelligent”.  If they had have elaborated about the type of method, or approaches to training they’d been using I would have probably relaxed more knowing they were actively seeking ways to find stimulation and outlets for their pup.  To their credit they had de-sexed him, he’d had the relevant vaccination and they were exposing him to other friendly dogs which was great to hear.

Reader, may I take a moment to promote that puppy school is not for increasing a dog’s I.Q.  It is so that we can help our puppy to learn things that will help him cope in our world.  It is wonderful enrichment for both owner and dog and will help to further build the bond between you. Sit, lay down and behaviour modification are only a handful of the outcomes.  In the mean time you will get to learn more about how to speak ‘his’ language and your puppy will spend valuable time around a variety of other pups.  Your trainer may even become someone you maintain contact with as they’ll usually offer further ideas, services and activities which can help you keep on track as your dog develops.  (This gorgeous pup photographed is not the dog in question).

Leah & Angela OMeara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)