If you are training your own dog at home, understand that basic home manners or pet obedience classes are essential to a dog's education. Early socialization is important for the normal development of a young dog. Attending a class away from home around new people, dogs, sights, sounds, and smells can help the dog learn to tune out the distractions and focus attention on the owner. Many owners state "he will do this at home, but at the vet's office, on walks, or in class he is too distracted." Dogs have to be taught in the presence of such distractions for 6-10 weeks before then can be expected to deliver quick and consistent responses.

A well-run class should be fun, provide lots of good answers for home behavior issues, and give the owners good reading information. Homework sheets used to remind the owners what was taught in class that week are very helpful.

A class should be taught in an environment used only for obedience (you wouldn't go to a department store for an education -- your dog deserves better, too). A good instructor has at least 5 years of experience and should be tested and endorsed by an organization like The National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors. There are organziations that will certify anyone as long as they pay their yearly dues, and they have no requirements for skill or experience.

If you have a puppy, you may want to investigate a puppy kindergarten, or puppy manners class. These are especially designed to introduce basic commands to your pup, but they are geared to a puppies short attention span. It's also a great way to meet other new puppy owners.

There are also classes available for older dogs, for different levels of training. You can start a dog in a beginning class at any age, so never feellike it's too late.

Investigate the classes beforehand and find the one that is right for you. Some are aimed at first time dog owners and others will be for experienced dog owners. It's best to observe a class before you join so that you can find one that isn't too large and gives you the right feel for you and our dog. You should also observe the instructor to make sure that he or she is a good fit for you and that the directions are clear and understandable.