Puppy Obedience Training Classes: What to Know Before You Start

Bringing home a new puppy is so exciting—but let’s be honest, it can be a lot too. One minute they’re snoozing in your lap, the next they’re running off with your favorite sneakers and puppy biting your hands.

Puppy obedience training classes can make life way easier. These classes help you teach your puppy the basics like “sit” and “come,” and even more important stuff like how to be calm around new people, sounds, and places.

But what do you really need to know before signing up? Let’s walk through it.

Why puppy training matters

Training is more than just “sit” and “stay”

It’s about teaching your pup how to feel confident in the world—and helping you feel confident handling them. Whether you live in an apartment or near a busy street, the right training sets you both up for success.

A well-trained puppy is a safer, happier puppy

With some guidance, your dog learns how to behave in new places, around new people, and during stressful moments (like loud noises or crowded sidewalks). It’s about raising a dog you can trust—and who trusts you.

What is positive reinforcement?

We reward the good stuff.

Positive reinforcement means praising and rewarding your puppy when they do something right—like sitting instead of jumping or walking without pulling.

Why it works better than punishment

Instead of scolding them for doing something “wrong,” we teach them what to do instead. It’s clear, kind, and it works.

With positive reinforcement, you’re building trust one treat at a time. This method helps your puppy feel safe, boosts their confidence, and makes learning actually fun.

Rescue puppy Ramona working on her sit stay in Puppy 2

What to expect in obedience classes

What your puppy will learn:

Most classes cover everyday basics like:

• Sit, stay, come

• Walking nicely on a leash

• Greeting people without jumping

• Calm behavior around other dogs

• Socialization

Socialization is just as important as commands. Your puppy will get practice being around new dogs, people, and environments—which is key to raising a calm, well-adjusted adult dog.

How long do classes last?

Most run for a few weeks with weekly sessions that are an hour long. The goal is to build skills gradually—no rush, no pressure.

Confidence building exercises for puppies in our Puppy 1 group class

How to pick the right puppy training class

Look for a trainer who…

• Uses positive reinforcement

• Has experience with different breeds

• Is kind, clear, and patient (with both dogs and humans!)

Questions to ask before signing up

• What’s your training method?

• How many puppies are in each class?

• What happens if my dog is nervous or shy?

Trust your gut—it matters

If the trainer seems rushed or pushy, or the space feels chaotic, it’s okay to walk away. The right class should feel welcoming—for both of you.

Can training fix common puppy problems?

Barking, nipping, and jumping…oh my. Yep, puppies come with all sorts of quirks. Good training helps you guide their behavior in better directions before habits stick.

Why early training makes life easier later

The sooner you teach your puppy how to navigate the world, the more confident they’ll be. Prevention beats correction every time.

You’re not alone—this is normal puppy stuff. If your puppy is wild, clingy, barky, or just a little “too much”—you’re in good company. These classes are made for that.

Puppy 1 graduate, Crouton, crushing it with his ‘leave it’ skills

Why the training community is so helpful

You don’t have to figure it out alone. New puppy life can be overwhelming. Being part of a class connects you with others going through the same stuff.

Trainers, fellow dog owners, and even post-class chats can offer real advice, laughs, and encouragement.

Bonus: your pup gets more dog friends! Puppies learn from each other—and make lifelong dog park buddies along the way.

Ready to get started with puppy training?

You’ve got this—and we’ve got your back.

If you’re looking for kind, effective puppy training with a focus on building trust and confidence, Copilot Dog Training is here to help. We’d love to meet your pup and help you both thrive together. Check out our puppy group classes or reach out to schedule a free phone consultation with our trainers.