When you’re ready to get your dog started on a training journey, one of the first questions you might ask is: Should I choose group dog training or private lessons? The response depends on your dog’s personality, your goals, and your schedule.
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences, pros and cons, and what our professional pet trainers recommend—so you can make the best choice for your furry friend.
Group Dog Training: Social Learning in a Structured Setting
Group classes are a popular option for many dog owners. These classically involve several dogs and their owners working with a trainer on foundational skills such as sit, stay, recall, leash manners, and well-mannered social behavior.
Benefits of Group Training:
- Socialization: Your dog learns how to behave around other dogs and people.
- Disruption training: Practicing commands around others builds stronger focus.
- Cost-effective: Group sessions are usually more affordable than private training.
- Supportive environment: You’re surrounded by other pet parents facing the same challenges.
Best For:
- Puppies and young dogs demanding socialization
- Dogs with basic obedience issues
- Owners who prefer a more affordable, community-focused setting
Private Dog Training: Personalized and Focused
Personalized dog training is a one-on-one session between your dog, the trainer, and sometimes you. It can be done at home, at a pet resort, or in another quiet location. This type of training is tailored to your dog’s specific needs and behavior.
Benefits of Private Training:
- Personalized attention: Every session is focused solely on your dog’s goals.
- Flexible pace: The trainer adjusts the pace based on your dog’s progress.
- Ideal for behavioral issues: Great for dogs who struggle with anxiety, reactivity, or aggression.
- Convenience: Easier to schedule around your routine and location.
Best For:
- Dogs with behavioral challenges
- Rescue dogs adjusting to new surroundings
- Busy owners or those who want faster results
What Our Trainers Recommend
- Our team of professional pet trainerssuggests considering your dog’s age, behavior, and comfort level with other dogs before deciding.
- 🦴Group dog training is a great start for most dogs—particularly puppies or dogs with little social experience. It’s also a good option if you’re looking for general obedience and want your dog to get comfortable in new environments.
- 🦴Private training is optional if your dog has specific behavioral needs, struggles with aggression or anxiety, or simply doesn’t do well in a busy group setting.
- In many cases, a grouping of bothworks best. Some pet owners start with private sessions to build a substance, then transition into group classes for social practice.
Bonus: What About Dog Daycare + Training?
If your dog attends dog daycare, combining it with a training program can be highly effective. Many pet resorts offer structured programs where your dog gets professional training during daycare hours. It’s a great way to reinforce good behavior and burn off energy in a supervised environment.
Final Thoughts
Both group and private training can lead to fantastic results—it all depends on your dog’s needs and your training goals. No matter which you choose, constancy, patience, and positive support are key to success.
Still unsure what’s right for your dog? Schedule a consultation with one of the expert trainers to get a modified recommendation. Whether it’s group lessons, one-on-one sessions, or a merged approach, we’re here to help you build a better bond with your pup.
