Thinking about training your dog? Great! But before jumping in, it’s important to understand the different types of dog training programs available. Dog training varies by age group, skill level, and goals — and choosing the right course can make all the difference.
Let’s break it down so you can find the best fit for your furry friend.
🐾 1. Puppy Preschool (6 Weeks – 5 Months Old)
Best for: Young puppies just starting out
Course length: 6–8 weeks
Puppy preschool is designed for dogs between 6 weeks and 5 months old. These beginner-friendly classes help your puppy get comfortable around people and other dogs. They’ll learn basic socialization skills and simple commands like:
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Sit
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Stay
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Come when called
It’s a great foundation that sets your pup up for success in more advanced training later on.
🦴 2. Basic Dog Training (5 Months+)
Best for: Dogs new to structured training
Course length: 8–10 weeks
Once your dog is 5 months or older, they’re ready for basic obedience training. In this course, dogs learn essential behaviors that make everyday life easier:
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Walking politely on a leash
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Sitting on command
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Staying in place
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Coming when called
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Heeling beside their owner
This stage helps curb unwanted behaviors and builds discipline.
🧠 3. Intermediate Dog Training
Best for: Dogs who’ve completed basic training
Course length: 8–10 weeks
Intermediate training builds on the basics and introduces more advanced challenges. Your dog will:
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Hold positions for longer
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Respond to commands from multiple people
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Focus amid distractions
This stage deepens your dog’s discipline and reliability in various situations.
🎓 4. Advanced Dog Training
Best for: Dogs who’ve completed intermediate training
Course length: 8–10 weeks
In advanced training, your dog learns to obey commands without you being in sight and even to walk off-leash. This course also helps prepare your pup for the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) certification — a respected benchmark of a well-trained dog.
🏅 5. Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certification
Best for: Highly trained dogs
Course length: Varies (depends on dog’s progress)
The Canine Good Citizen course is the final step in many training programs. To pass, your dog must master 10 core behaviors, including:
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Accepting a friendly stranger
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Sitting politely for petting
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Coming when called
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Walking through a crowd
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Reacting calmly to distractions
This test is challenging and is meant for dogs who’ve completed previous levels of training.
🐶 Which Dog Training Course Is Right for You?
Now that you know the different stages of dog training, you can choose the one that matches your dog’s age, experience, and temperament. When in doubt, consult a local professional trainer — many offer free evaluations or consultations.
Starting dog training early can lead to a happier, healthier relationship with your pup — and a more well-behaved companion for life.
