Graduating to Group Class: 4 Tips for a Successful Transition

 Graduating to Group Classes: 4 Tips for a Successful Transition

By Marvin Versteeg

Edited By Rebecca Hoch

Group classes are Got Sit’s cornerstone. They firmly cement dog-owner communication protocols and expectations. It’s where the Got Sit “magic” sparks and true dog training occurs. However, when you’re new to them, group classes can be overwhelming – intimidating even. We’re here to help! Here are four tips to make your transition to group classes successful.

You and your dog are ready for this. It’s normal to be nervous and a little stressed for your first group class: “What’s going to happen?! Will my dog obey? Will I know what to do? Will my dog get loose? What will the other dogs do? We’re out in the un-fenced open for goodness sake!” Calm down. Breathe. The Got Sit trainers feel you and your dog are ready for this. They’ve got your back. Relax.

Be patient with yourself and your dog. You’re starting something new. Yes, it’s easy for the Got Sit trainers to work with the dogs. They’re professionals. It’s what they do. You and your dog are beginners. You’re going to fumble at first. That’s okay. Commit to consistency. The more classes you attend, the more work you do at home, the sooner it will be easy for you to work with your dog too. Just like a pro.

There are going to be “bad” classes. You’re human, your dog’s a dog. It’s going to happen. When it does, don’t take it personally. It doesn’t mean you have a terrible dog, that the training isn’t working, or that you’re doing something wrong. It means it’s an off day. Do your best to control of your emotions, use the training tools as effectively as possible, leave early if you must – but come back. The next class will be better.

Remember to ask for help. It’s easy to get fixated on your dog during class and forget you’re standing in the middle of a support network. Not only are the Got Sit trainers available, but so are the experienced owners. Watch what they’re doing, ask for suggestions, compare notes. You’re surrounded by dog-loving Got Sit devotees. They’re happy to help. All you’ve got to do is ask.

Getting to group classes is a big step in your Got Sit journey. Congratulations! Your dog training skills are only going to get better. More importantly, your relationship with your dog is going to get better. Before you know it, you’ll be off leash happily saying “it works!” to anyone who’ll listen.

How did your first group class go? Let us know in the comment section below. If you have questions or need extra help, call us at (425) 405-5748.

Rebecca Hoch is a Got Sit client and writer. She and her dog, Isabelle, enjoy practicing “spread ‘em”, Got Sit push-ups and placing on various surfaces. They’re frequently found at Lake Stevens’ Cavalero Hill off-leash dog park enjoying the fresh air and mingling with friends. Rebecca blogs about their adventures at The Dog Park Diary (www.thedogparkdiary.com). Her work is also featured in the Lakes Stevens Journal and on Two Pens (www.twopens.com).