Will My Dog Be a Good Fit for This Group Class?
Dog group classes are a great way for dogs and their guardians to learn skills together while strengthening their bond. However, not every skill can be effectively taught in a classroom setting, and not every dog thrives in that environment. Before enrolling, it's a good idea to ask yourself: will my dog be a good fit for this class?
When you ask yourself this question, consider two key factors: Does the class curriculum align with your training goals? and, Will your dog be able to learn effectively in a classroom environment?
It's also important to understand that group classes primarily serve to teach people the skills they need to train their dogs effectively at home. While dogs do learn in class, the real value lies in giving guardians the techniques and confidence to train in their daily lives.
Here’s the TL;DR:
Skip group classes if:
You're goal is to deal with challenging behaviors like separation anxiety, resource guarding, or aggression;
Your dog refuses to eat when out of the house, near other dogs, or around new people;
You're hoping for your dog to socialize or "meet" other dogs (unless the class is puppy socialization).
Go ahead for group classes if:
Your dog can take food from you outside of the house;
You are looking to gain confidence in teaching your dog basic skills or manners;
You are looking to strengthen your bond with your dog;
Your training goals align with those stated in the class description.
Match Your Goals to the Right Setting
Some training goals cannot be addressed in a group class setting. For instance, behavior challenges such as separation anxiety, resource guarding, or aggressive behavior require individualized attention in your home or other calm environments.
However, if you want to teach skills like sit, down, and stay while managing distractions, or fun games and tricks, a classroom setting could be perfect!
Some behavior challenges can be addressed in a group class, like reactive behaviors such as barking and lunging at other dogs during walks. However, you'll need a specialized reactivity class rather than a general obedience or manners class.
Is Your Dog Ready and Able to Learn?
In classroom settings, we rely heavily on food motivation to build and shape behaviors. If your dog cannot or will not eat outside your home, the classroom may not be the best learning environment for them.
The "My Dog Isn't Food Motivated" Myth
I frequently hear this concern from dog guardians, but there are usually underlying reasons worth exploring:
Free feeding habits: Do you leave food out all day for your dog to graze, or do you have set meal times? Dogs with constant access to food often show less motivation to work for food. Try switching to scheduled feeding times and see if this increases food motivation.
Low-value rewards: Taking your dog's regular kibble on a walk and expecting enthusiasm isn't realistic when they're surrounded by exciting smells, sights, and sounds. Experiment with higher-value options like small pieces of cheese, meat, or other special training treats to compete with environmental distractions.
Many dogs will not eat when they are stressed: If your dog still won't work for food after addressing feeding schedules and increasing treat value, they're likely experiencing stress or anxiety—making classroom training ineffective and frustrating for you, the guardian, and not in your pup’s best interest.
When Your Dog Can Eat But Can't Focus
Some dogs will eagerly take food around other dogs and new people, but they're so excited or overstimulated that they can't focus on learning new skills. These dogs might jump, pull toward other dogs, or seem "bouncy" and unable to settle.
If this sounds like your dog, group classes can still be beneficial, but you'll need to adjust your expectations and goals. Instead of focusing on teaching complex skills like "stay" or tricks, you and your dog should work on:
Building engagement and attention with you
Practicing calm, settled behaviors
Learning to focus despite distractions
Developing impulse control
What If My Dog Isn't Ready for Group Classes?
If your dog falls into the "skip group classes" category, don't worry—you have excellent alternatives! This is where private training becomes invaluable.
A qualified private trainer can:
Work with your dog in environments where they feel comfortable and can learn effectively
Address specific behavioral issues like separation anxiety, resource guarding, or reactivity
Help desensitize your dog to triggers at their own pace, respecting their threshold
Create a customized training plan that meets your dog exactly where they are
Teach you techniques to practice safely at home
Key takeaway
Group classes work well for dogs who can focus, engage with their guardian, or be otherwise redirected with food and motivated in group settings to work on skills. Make sure your training goals match with the class curriculum and to adjust your expectations if your dog is dealing with overstimulation in a group setting.
Dogs experiencing stress, fear, or anxiety likely need individualized approaches that respect their emotional state and meet them where they are at.
Still not sure if your dog is a good candidate for a group class?
Or, are you interested in private training?