Let’s face it. We’re living in a digital world, and now is the time to take advantage of the convenience of being able to take a class or join a meeting without leaving the house.
One of the things that is now more widely available thanks to the internet is dog training. If you’ve been wanting to train your dog but could never make it to the classes, then it’s time to see what virtual dog training can do for you.
Are you afraid that you won’t be able to successfully train your dog without attending courses in-person? That’s a common fear, and we get it. But thankfully, it’s a misconception. Let's talk about all the reasons why you need a virtual trainer for your dog. Ready to be convinced? Let's go!
Why You Should Try Virtual Dog Training
From the very start, it’s important to remember that virtual training doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You can start your dog out with virtual training and then move them into a group class or private in-person training as they learn the basics.
You can even use virtual training to supplement in-person group classes if your dog is in a group setting the two of you enjoy. A virtual trainer may be able to correct bad habits you are developing and improve your training skills.
Here are a few other reasons you should consider virtual dog training.
Your Dog Can Focus Better
Group classes can be great for socializing your dog, but what do you do if your dog is a little too social? If you have a dog that is easily distracted and needs to work on his focus, then a virtual trainer is the way to go.
Working from home keeps your dog in a familiar environment that isn’t full of exciting new smells. There won’t be new dogs to try to make friends with. So a virtual class is a good way to teach an easily distracted dog the foundations and really prepare them for training in a more difficult environment.
It Can Be Better For Dogs With Anxiety
If you and your dog are trying to manage issues due to some form of anxiety, training and setting your expectations are a good way to help work through it. Unfortunately, training in a class setting may increase your dog’s anxiety in some cases.
If your dog is anxious about car rides, has fear anxiety around other dogs, or gets fearful in new places, virtual training sessions are a good place to start working with your dog.
They will not be put into a situation that is confusing and scary. They will be getting the training they need to work through their anxiety, and the trainer will be giving you tools and insight into how to help your dog as you are able to slowly transition them to in-person training and eventually even group classes.
You Can Avoid Human Contact
Maybe it isn’t your dog that has social anxiety, maybe it's you. Or maybe you’re just adamant about lessening contact with people in order to stay healthy. Virtual training classes still give you the opportunity to train your dog with a professional without having to deal with actually being around other people.
It Can Make Private Sessions More Affordable
You may want to work with a trainer one on one if you have a new puppy or your dog has an issue that really needs a professional eye. Private sessions can be prohibitively expensive. Private virtual sessions can cost less and still give you the opportunity to get one on one time with a trainer who can help you and your dog get on track.
You Can Make It Work With Your Schedule
You may not be able to make it to group classes due to the time at which they are held. It can be really hard to juggle work and family commitments, even if you work from home. Virtual dog training sessions make training accessible by allowing you to schedule your dog’s training at a time that works for you.
They’re Safer For Your Unvaccinated Puppy
Socialization is extremely important for puppies. Working on social skills early is an important part of their development. Starting training as early as possible is also an important part of a puppy’s development.
If your puppy isn’t fully vaccinated, then a class full of other dogs is not the safest place for them to be. If you can’t find a puppy class with dogs in the same age group, then a virtual class is a much better option. Your puppy will get the benefit of early training while avoiding potential illnesses.
You Never Have To Miss A Class
You don’t have to worry about canceling if the weather is bad or if you have car trouble. As long as you have WIFI and a signal, you’re good to go!
As you can see, there are plenty of reasons why you should be signing up for a virtual trainer for your dog ASAP!
Dog Friendly Living offers in-person and virtual training to help your dog work through basic manners and any issues they may be struggling with. We’re all about positive reinforcement here, so we’ll be working through methods that help build your dog’s confidence along the way. It’s really a win-win for all!
P.S. If you have a new puppy or are preparing for a new puppy, you don’t want to miss a spot in the Puppy Prep Course! Having a new puppy at home is a lot of work, and is a huge transition. Our course gives you the tools you need to effectively bond with your puppy.
We’ll teach you what to expect from your puppy at every stage of their development, how your reactions will shape your puppy’s behavior, how to set boundaries, and other skills you’ll need to become an effective dog parent.
Living a dog friendly lifestyle doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice your own wellbeing. Set you and your pup up for success by investing in their care early on. Because, really, no one regrets having a well-trained pup!