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Dog Training Basics: Tips from Petco Trainers

Dog Training Basics: Tips from Petco Trainers

Updated on July 28, 2022
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

We love our dogs so much that it can be easy to forget that their instincts are not always aligned with what we need for a harmonious household. With proper training, we have a chance to set everyone up to be successful by showing our pups what we would like them to do in order to fit into our lifestyles. The best way to help keep you and your dog—and everyone your dog comes into contact with—safe and happy is to properly train your pup. Of course, there’s more to dog training than just “sit” and “stay”. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your successful training journey.

Why dog training classes are important

Proper training is essential for a long, happy and safe relationship with your dog as it sets the foundation for physical fitness, mental alertness, social engagement and emotional stability. Dogs thrive when they are shown what we prefer them to do to fit into their family's routine. When they’re left without an understanding of what’s preferred they may create their own habits and routines. A dog who’s properly trained is also better company, which makes social outings and home visits much less stressful.

As a pet parent, it’s important to remember that training happens every time you interact with your dog and occurs throughout your dog’s life. Patience is one of the keys to successful training. Training that’s done improperly—or inconsistently—is less effective. The best way to ensure that your dog is properly trained and that their training sticks, is to enroll them in professional training classes with a certified dog trainer.

petco training book

When to start training classes

Dog training starts from the moment you bring them home. That’s when house training, food routines, walk schedules and introducing basic commands begin. It’s a good idea to begin training at the puppy stage. Though puppy attention spans are short, early quality training is important. This will keep you from having to re-train or undo bad learned behaviors as they form adult patterns. Dog training can start as young as 7 to 8 weeks old, with a focus on simple commands.

Basic training with methods based on positive reinforcement and gentle instruction can be introduced early, and puppies can join puppy-level classes around 4-6 months. Training sessions should occur regularly until your puppy has established good behaviors as routine. After 6 months, your dog can advance to more complex training. If you are training an adult dog for the first time, look for certified dog trainers that specialize in all ages. Older dogs may have learned behaviors that need to be corrected, and positive professional dog training can help them readjust.

What are the different types of dog training?

Dog training is just one of the several types of training programs available. It’s cue-focused and is the next step after basic behavioral training. It focuses on teaching cues like sit, stay and lie down and resolves behavioral problems before they develop. From an early age, puppies can go through training and advance into adult dog training classes. Advanced cues include leave it, quiet and touch or target response.

Positive training is a rewards-based system, where good behavior and obedience are reinforced with rewards like training treats. Some puppies may prefer a favorite toy or verbal praise as a reward. It may take a little time to find the right reward, but that’s part of the fun of this proven and trusted method. Some training programs include the American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen certification, which sets a high standard for behavior.

Many dogs end their professional education after mastering behavioral training. But some dogs go on to participate in dog sports or various types of work. This requires agility or vocational training. The more advanced training involved for these paths requires them to have a good understanding of commands. Basic training is the foundation that gets them started.

Can you send your dog away to be trained?

It’s a good idea to learn positive methods for home training, so you can be an active part of your dog’s growth. But life gets busy, and you might not have the time and resources that professional dog training can provide. Our in-store dog training and group classes can help socialize your dog and let them learn how to take instruction, even when distracted or influenced by other dogs. For high-energy or anxious pups, one-on-one dog training might be a better fit at first, providing personalized guidance and care. Or combine the two for a well-rounded approach. Look for programs that let you curate and customize your options, allowing for both group socialization and private, focused attention.

Canine school is a great option for many dogs and can strengthen your pet’s social skills and mental wellbeing. Most thrive in dog training programs that use positive training techniques, such as rewards for making good choices and ignoring or withholding—not shaming or scolding—when your dog makes the wrong decision.

How dog training works at Petco   

If you’ve never been through dog training, it’s helpful to know how it works before you sign up. You’ll learn what to expect with each class and be able to continue following the proper training principles at home. 

The Petco-certified Positive Dog Trainers at Petco abide by a science-based, positive reinforcement dog-training philosophy. This means that training classes follow rewards-based, fun and effective methods to instill positive behaviors and that appeal to your dog. Training focuses on rewarding dogs for doing things correctly, making them more likely to repeat those behaviors, while dissuading negative behaviors through management and refocusing tactics. Positive reinforcement training has been proven effective in not only training any type learner but also in building a strong bond between pet parents and their dogs.

Dog training class schedule

Petco offers dog training classes for every level of learner in an environment that sets both dog and pet parent up to succeed long after classes have ended. Here’s what’s offered:

  • Puppy Group Class: his is a 6-week introductory group class for 8- to 16-week-old puppies. It covers basics that every puppy needs, including socialization, potty training and foundational cues like “sit,” “down,” “come” and much more.
  • Beginner Group Class: This is a 6-week group class for dogs 16 weeks to 6 months old that reinforces the basic skills learned in Puppy Group Class, plus loose-leashing walking, tricks, games and advanced cues like “leave it” and “wait.”
  • Fundamentals Group Class: This is a 6-week group class for dogs over 6 months old. It teaches loose-leash walking, cues like “sit,” “down,” “come,” “leave it” and “wait” and how to mitigate undesirable behaviors like jumping and barking.
  • Advanced Group Class: This is a 6-week group class for dogs over 6 months old that have already mastered the fundamentals. It teaches more advanced cues like “heel,” “down” and “wait” and recall with distractions. Polite greetings, games to keep dogs mentally simulated and much more is covered during these classes.
  • Private Training Lessons: More customized training solutions and one-on-one instruction built for the training goals you have for your dog are offered.

Petco dog training classes are offered in a variety of packages to ensure the needs of every dog are met. Learn more about the classes here.

What to bring to dog training classes

The best dog training schools will tell you what training equipment to bring, which usually includes vaccination records, a flat buckle or snap collar, a 6-foot leash, training treats and cleanup bags. Many classes provide supplemental items needed for certain training, but you want to make sure you’re set up to continue dog training at home.

Common dog training products include treats, puppy pads, chew toys and leader collars. Consult with your trainer, vet or pet wellness center on the right items to bring for you and your dog.

Dog training basic behaviors

When you bring your dog to a professional Petco dog training class, you can expect them to learn foundational behaviors, and then some. Foundational behaviors include:

  • Come: Getting your dog to come to you whenever called is one of the most vital behaviors to have in your repertoire.
  • Down: A position that may be more comfortable for your dog to “wait” or “stay” in, especially when they need to stay for an extended period of time.. 
    Go to your bed: A good place to send them but still have them nearby when you have company or are eating meals.   ·     
  • Leave it: When cued, your dog will leave an object/thing/person alone and refocus their attention on you.
  • Loose-leash walking: Most pet parents expect their dog to walk nicely on a leash without pulling. Positive training methods and proper equipment will help you teach this.
  • Sit: Useful when you’re attaching your dog’s leash, greeting people, giving medication, brushing them, etc
  • Stay: Teaches them to not move from a specific position such as "sit."
  • Wait: Don't cross this boundary (a doorway, for example). Your dog doesn't have to sit or lie down, just not move forward.
petco training book

How much are dog training classes?

The cost of dog obedience training depends on several factors. Private versus group classes, for instance, are priced differently. Puppy obedience classes and adult dog training might also have different prices, which can fluctuate depending on the certifications and qualifications of the trainer, the length of the program or the organization’s policies. Some places also offer dog training online, which can be more affordable and offer the convenience of professional dog training at home.

Dog training tips

Although the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to properly training your pup is understanding, patience and consistency, it’s useful to also remember:

  • Puppies can learn, too: You’d be surprised at how early a puppy can begin picking up on training cues. Start at home with short sessions to see how much your puppy can learn.
  • Keep sessions short: Puppies have especially short attention spans, so dedicate no more than a few minutes to each behavior to start.
  • Get the right products: Depending on your goals for your dog, there might be a product on the market that can help you with your training. For example, if your dog pulls the leash while walking, a no-pull harness or head halter designed to curb this behavior might help. Providing your puppy with appropriate chew toys can also help abate chewing issues while promoting oral health and reducing boredom. A Petco trainer can help point you in the right direction based on the behavior you are looking for.
  • Reward on time: Dogs connect verbal praise to what they did very close in time to when the praise occurred. Appropriate and preferred behaviors should be rewarded immediately.
  • Pick the right rewards: When focusing on positive reinforcement, having the proper rewards, or reinforcers, to convey  “well done, more of that please,” is essential. Keep treats small, soft and delicious, and make sure your dog likes what you’re providing. Other reward options are verbal praise, pets/scratches, toys, play—whatever your dog enjoys and reacts well to.
  • Remember—crates can be great: Rather than considering crates restrictive, think of them as an easy way to keep your dog safe while you’re not home and help eliminate potential unwanted behaviors that can arise from boredom or loneliness. Make the crate experience fun by introducing it in a positive and rewarding way, hiding tasty treats or putting a food-stuffed toy inside.
  • Be consistent: As you work with your dog, they will learn to repeat the behaviors that you reinforce. It is important that every family member has agreed on which behaviors are acceptable and preferred, how to consistently reinforce these behaviors and what to do when a less favored behavior is observed.
  • Do your part: Proper dog training is a partnership between you and your dog. That means listening during class and following up at home. For example, when it comes to house training, show your dog where elimination should take place, and stick to the routine. By staying patient and consistent, you’ll be more likely to succeed.

A properly trained dog is not only safer but a pleasure to be around. Petco has all the expert advice you need and classes to fit any training level. So, what are you waiting for—a better-behaved dog could be just a few short weeks away!

Download our dog training care sheet for reference

Are Dog Training Classes Worth It?

Professional dog training offers many benefits that can be difficult to achieve on your own. Obedience training is an essential part of building good dog behavior. The best dog training classes provide information that goes beyond basic obedience training. Professional trainers teach important skills like socialization techniques and how to read your dog’s body language. The mental and physical exercise, along with social stimuli, strengthens your pet’s ability to navigate new situations and builds lasting tools they’ll carry into and through adulthood.

Teaching your dog the skills they need for successful socializing, obedience and behavior is a vital piece of their overall wellbeing. When your dog learns obedience and good behavior in a variety of conditions, it makes your life much easier too. Your dog will be more comfortable going to the groomer, the vet, on walks or to the dog park with confidence. Investing in dog obedience classes leads to a well-behaved dog. When your pet is happy and obedient it deepens your bond and trust. It also saves you time and energy so you can focus on important things like spending quality time.

Benefits of dog training classes:

  • Builds lasting trust and companionship: Training during classes and at home lets you learn from and share with one another. You learn more about your dog’s needs and personality, and your dog learns what makes you happy. 
  • Practicing establishes patterns: Your dog will not naturally outgrow behaviors that are practiced and learned. Habits form early, and training can help break bad habits as your dog ages
  • Keeps your dog healthy: A pet who listens to commands and knows how to behave in various situations is much less likely to have violent altercations with other dogs, will be under less stress from the consequences of bad behavior and can handle the vet and groomer with more confidence.
  • Protects your home and your things: Puppies and untrained dogs can be disruptive to your living space. Training them early or resetting bad learned behavior can save your furniture, shoes and other items from becoming chew toys.

How to recognize dog behavior problems

Not all dogs need the same level of training, but there are basic obedience training techniques every dog should know—including sit, stay, come, leave it and down. Reward-based positive training will help curb early behavior problems, which is why it’s helpful to begin training your puppy before these become habits. Older dogs can learn obedience, too, and professional dog training is a great option.

Your dog was not born knowing how to best navigate human expectations. Nipping, sniffing, jumping and barking are natural dog behaviors, but they are not always the best ways for your dog to communicate. Biting, barking, chewing and begging are all examples of behavior that is not ideal. Any time your dog is asking for attention in these ways, it’s a training opportunity. Consistency is key and helps your dog recognize unacceptable behaviors across multiple situations, whether you are at home or in public.

Rewards like praise and treats motivate your dog to learn through positivity. Be firm but kind, and stop bad behavior with commands, followed by rewards for obedience. Remember to reward good behavior on its own and not just after initial misbehavior.

Four training behaviors and cues to teach your dog

The following four behaviors and cues are an ideal place to start your dog's training. Once your puppy or dog has mastered them, you can feel more confident in their safety, attentiveness and readiness to advance in training.

1. How to sit

Sitting on cue is the hallmark of a polite, well-mannered pup. This cue is especially useful when greeting guests because you’ll know you have the ability to get your dog’s attention and keep them from jumping up on visitors as they enter.

Teaching a dog to sit:

  1. Face your dog.
  2. Pinch a dog treat between your upturned thumb and index finger and present it to your dog, about an inch or so in front of their nose.
  3. Slowly slide your hand toward the top of your dog’s head, luring them to follow the treat.
  4. Your dog will likely try to keep your hand in sight by lowering their bottom to the floor as they raise their head.
  5. As soon as your pup’s rear hits the floor, verbally praise them heartily and give them the treat.
  6. Repeat.When your dog readily offers the behavior, start saying “sit” before you lure them and “yes,” accompanied with a treat, as soon as they sit.

More tips on how to teach your dog to sit.

2. How to lie down

This is an important cue to have at your disposal when you need your dog to settle. It helps you better manage them and their next actions and is a good follow-up to sit.

Teaching a dog to lie down:

  1. Ask your dog to sit and hold a treat between your thumb and forefinger with your palm facing down.
  2. Hold the treat directly in front of your dog’s nose and slowly lower it between their front paws, luring their nose and head toward the ground.
  3. If needed, drag the treat slowly along the ground toward you/away from your dog. Your dog should follow the treat with their nose until they are lying down on their belly.
  4. As soon as their elbows hit the ground, say “yes” and give them the treat, along with lots of verbal praise.
  5. Repeat. When your dog readily offers the behavior when following your hand, say “down” then “yes,” accompanied with a treat, as soon as your dog lies down.

More tips on how to teach your dog to lie down.

3. How to stay

Being able to stay in a position when cued can help your dog avoid potentially hazardous situations. It’s also useful when you need them to settle in place.

Teaching a dog stay:

  1. Cue your dog to sit or lie down.
  2. Hold up one hand with your palm facing your dog. Hold a dog treat in your opposite hand.
  3. Treat your dog when they remain in the cued position.
  4. Stand very close to your  dog. Remain still and offer very little distraction.
  5. Praise the dog while in stay.
  6. Release your dog from stay using a word like “release” or “thank you,” then take a step back.
  7. Ask them again to remain in a sit or stay position. Repeat this several times, adding the word “stay” and gradually  increasing distance, time and distractions as your dog progresses

4. How to come

Teaching your dog to come is arguably the most critical cue your dog should know. Also known as recall, “come” tells your dog to return to you. If your dog were to slip out of their collar or harness near a busy street or begin to enter a potentially dangerous location, knowing this basic training cue could be a lifesaver.

Teaching a dog to come:

  1. Have a partner hold your dog on a long training leash while you get a treat ready.
  2. Use the treat as a magnet. Hold it close to your dog’s nose, turn and quickly walk away from your dog.
  3. Excitedly call your dog using a rapidly repeating noise like “pup pup,” a clap, whistle, smooch or click.
  4. When your dog follows you, say “yes” and urge them on with “good puppy/boy/ girl!”
  5. Stop and crouch when  your dog arrives and praise and reward them with the treat.
  6. Repeat this exercise several times.When  your dog is following you on a consistent basis, begin saying “come” before you call them and gradually increase the distance between you and your dog


Knowing your dog is set up with the right basic training cues will give you peace of mind in new situations. And once you've mastered the basics, you can add on some fun tricks like teaching your dog to shake hands.

How To Find A Dog Trainer?

Finding the right dog trainer is important for the success and well-being of your pet. Many vets and professionals advise that you avoid any place that uses shame or fear as training tactics. Opt for programs that use the positive reinforcement model. This form of training lays a foundation of trust between you and your dog, and also between your dog and the world. The best dog training is supportive and creates an environment of safety.  

If you choose to go for professional training for your dog or puppy, look for qualified experts that use tested methods. This ensures your dog’s social, physical and mental wellbeing is in good hands as they learn

Dog training qualifications include:

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
  • Certified National Dog Training Expert
  • Fear-Free Animal Trainer
  • AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator

When looking for the right dog obedience training, you might consider location, schedules and class size. Convenience is important in these busy times, but so is quality. It’s worth a slightly longer trip to get the right training. Ask parents of other well-behaved dogs where they got their training and make an appointment to observe a class before signing up. Whether you choose a dedicated canine obedience school or dog obedience classes with a Petco pet trainer near you, your pup will benefit from a structured program created and led by experts.  

Help your dog or puppy learn the skills and behaviors needed for healthy interactions with the world around them. Enjoy the sense of community that comes with group classes and watch their social confidence develop. If they need a little extra attention, private classes give focused instruction. Dog obedience training is a key part of your pet’s overall well-being, forming good behavior, confidence and positive interactions.

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