Dog training classes can be great fun for the owner and are essential to help socialize your dog.

I would always advise you to go nd watch a lesson first to make sure you like the trainers methods. Do not take your dog with you at this stage.

If you decide to join the group your dog will go into the lowest class for the first week while the trainer assesses your dogs training level.

Most classes startoff with heel work, where you’ll all walk as a group. The trainer will call out commands, such as ‘turn left’. The heel work allows your dog to settle down and get ready to work without being detracted by the their dogs.

You will then move on to some recalls or down-stays. Depending on your dogs level of training, this may be on or off the lead.

As your dog progresses through the classes, you’ll probably move on to working your dog off the lead.

Most basic training courses run for twelve weeks, it is then up to you if you want to take your training further.

Some training centers get booked up so you might need to put your name on a waiting list.

All training centers require you to pick up your own dog mess so it is advisable to walk the dog before the class.

If you want to o agility with your dog you usually have t have completedthe basic training course first.