Most dogs only need to learn the basic commands of sit, stay, and heel.

Every year, millions of Americans adopt or purchase new dogs, and while it would be wonderful if each of these animals came fully trained and perfectly behaved, the truth is that almost all of them will require some form of behavioral training. But how much training does the average dog need, and what should an owner look for in a training program or school?

Billy Chaliot is a dog trainer and Training Director at Hound House North Kennels in Carrolton, Texas. He offers the following bits of advice and insight for new dog owners looking to provide training for their pets:

• The basics. According to Chaliot, most dogs require only a basic level of training and instruction. Your dog will have to learn simple commands such as sit, stay and heel. These commands will greatly improve your ability to control the dog’s behavior in most situations, increasing safety for you and others and leading to a more satisfying relationship with your pet.

• Special needs. Some dogs require more than the basics, however. If you own an animal that has shown excessive aggression or exhibits problems like constant barking or destructiveness, then you should look into programs that offer more intensive training.

• Sit in on a class. According to Chaliot, the best way to find out if a school is right for you and your dog is to sit in on a class. Pay close attention to the trainers and how they interact with the animals, and don’t be afraid to ask specific questions.

• Evaluate the school. Look for well-organized programs with helpful, knowledgeable instructors. Small class sizes are very helpful, as is written information that you can read outside of class.

• Ten minutes. You should keep in mind that training isn’t as simple as sending your dog away to school. As the dog’s owner, you will be responsible for controlling the animal and nipping behavior problems in the bud. Luckily, Chaliot believes that spending just ten minutes a day reinforcing you dog’s basic training commands is enough to guarantee years of happiness for both you and your animal companion.

The Dog Obedience and Training Page
www.dogpatch.org/obed/

Dr P’s Dog Training
www.uwsp.edu/psych/dog/dog.htm

Dog Owner’s Guide
www.canismajor.com/dog/index.html

American Dog Trainer’s Network
www.inch.com/~dogs/articles.html

Next: Pet Proof Your Home