Training your dog is one of the most important parts of being their handler. Sure, cuddles, love, and loyalty are all important, but an untrained dog has the potential to be a nightmare. While training is often necessary, it tends to be expensive, especially if you’re having someone come to your house or plan on entering a board-and-train program.
The good news is that dog training doesn’t have to be a hassle any more, thanks to online training options. While online training sounds great in theory, you’re probably asking yourself – does online dog training work? And while the short answer is a big yes, there’s more to it than that. Read on to learn more.
What Is Online Dog Training?
Online dog training is exactly what it sounds like – online dog training. It’s a system that allows you to meet with a trainer online to train your dog. Online trainers can speak with you about training methods or even directly train your dog through the screen. That said, you will need a computer with a webcam to ensure that this all works properly.
There are also online dog training courses that are tailored to your unique needs. For example, you can find courses that teach you how to properly train your dog using positive reinforcement training.
Does Online Dog Training Work?
Yes, online dog training works. It’s a great way to save money during the training process, and you’ll find that your dog will be more responsive to your commands because you’re the one physically there with them. Plus, online dog trainers are often the same people who are training dogs in person anyway, so you’re not missing out on quality training.
Overall, online dog training is a great way to train your dog for basic commands, obedience, and walking on a leash. However, it’s important to note that online training may not be a suitable replacement for all kinds of training, such as protection dog training.
Benefits of Online Dog Training
Not only does online dog training work, but it also has benefits you don’t get from in-person dog training. Learn more about these benefits below.
1. You Do the Training
This might seem like a weird benefit because it’s more work on your end, but that extra work will help you bond with your canine companion. When you have a trainer visit your home, you’ll find that your dog may get confused or focus more on the trainer than you or vice versa. Plus, according to Dog Academy’s Goldendoodle adoption guide, certain breeds like goldendoodles are actually very easy to train, even for beginners!
By going the online route, your dog can listen to the trainer, sure, but they’ll only have your physical presence to relate to. This makes it easier for you to bond with your dog and your dog will be more responsive to commands because you’re the one there teaching them.
2. Saves Time
Online dog training saves a lot of time. You don’t have to wait for trainers to get to you and you don’t have to worry about commuting to training centers.
This also saves time for you and your dog, especially if you adopt a puppy. During their early puppy years, it’s crucial to be there for your puppy and bond with them through love, playing, and training; online training can help you make the most out of this time.
3. More Affordable
Let’s face it, in-person dog training can be expensive, especially if you go with a board-and-train option. If you go the online route, the prices are more affordable and there are even courses you can buy for specific training methods or commands. When you combine this flexible pricing with an abundance of options, it’s hard to beat the value that online dog training provides.
So, Does Online Dog Training Work? Our Final Verdict
We can confidently say that online dog training works, so much so that it may be even better than in-person dog training, depending on the situation.
Whether you’re adopting a goldendoodle or Chihuahua, training your dog is a great way to forge a relationship with your dog. Plus, it allows you to form a deeper bond, stimulate their mind, and expend some of their energy – particularly helpful if you’re training a puppy.
While online dog training does work, make sure you understand its limits. While it’s great for basic training and getting used to training your dog, it’s not a suitable replacement for more advanced programs. Thankfully, these programs are often niche anyway, so online dog training should work for about 99% of dog owners.