Bringing home a new puppy is a heart-warming experience—until they start chewing up the furniture and barking incessantly. Don't panic. Obedience classes will help get your four-legged friend acclimated to their new family home and the rules that come with it. This ensures a harmonious environment where both you and your dog will feel at ease. Learn more about the utility of prompt training for new puppies below.

Why Does Your Puppy Need Obedience Training?

Puppy obedience training teaches your canine the skills they need to interact with people and other animals inside and outside the home. Training starts with teaching your pup the most basic skills, like sit and stay. It can also be used to curb whining, minimize begging, and instill proper toileting habits.

Learning these guidelines isn't just a matter of convenience; it's also for your dog's safety and security. If your puppy gets excited and wants to play with another less-friendly dog or tries to chase a car, for example, having them obediently sit and stay can protect them. The sooner you start obedience classes, the better; it’s harder to break "bad" habits later, so instilling proper behavior early on is preferable.

What Types of Obedience Training Are Important?

You can start obedience training in the comfort of your own home with simple commands like "sit" and "stay." However, your pup may also benefit from external courses. Learning from another person teaches them that they have to listen in general—not just to you. Further, external training offers both individual and group options. A group class will teach pups how to safely interact with other dogs.

When browsing external obedience classes, you may find options offered by both trainers versus by behaviorists. Trainers are better equipped to handle day-to-day issues, while behaviorists can better address deeper-rooted underlying causes for some behavioral issues. Sometimes, behaviorists are also veterinarians. Regardless, always ask about an individual's certification.

For obedience classes in Knoxville, TN, head to The Spot 4 Dogs. These professionals offer friendly and effective dog training from a certified K9 trainer and behaviorist. Their expert teacher has over 46,000 hours of schooling experience. They also provide boarding and grooming services. Learn more about their training programs online. For questions, call (865) 437-3920.