Q4: What to Expect in Your Dog's First Training Session?

The first training session sets the foundation for your dog’s progress and establishes a positive relationship between you, your dog, and the trainer.

Whether it’s a group class or private session, here’s what typically happens during the first meeting:

1. Introduction and Assessment

• Trainer Introduction

  • The trainer will introduce themselves, explain their training philosophy, and discuss what to expect during the session.
    

• Dog Evaluation

  • The trainer will observe your dog’s behavior, temperament, and body language. They may ask about:

    • Your dog’s breed, age, and history.

    • Current behaviors and habits (e.g., barking, jumping, leash pulling).

    • Any challenges you’re facing (e.g., aggression, anxiety, house training).
      

• Goal Setting

  • Together, you’ll outline the goals for training, such as obedience commands, behavior modification, or addressing specific issues.

2. Understanding Your Dog’s Environment (Private Training)

If the session is at your home, the trainer may assess your dog’s environment to identify potential triggers or areas for improvement.

For Example

• Are there distractions, like other pets or noisy spaces?

• Is your dog comfortable with their crate, bed, or designated space?

3. Establishing Rapport

The trainer will spend time building trust with your dog, using treats, toys, or calm interaction. This ensures your dog feels safe and ready to engage in training.

4. Training Foundations

The trainer will likely start with basic exercises and teach you foundational skills, such as:

• Marker Training

• Introducing a “marker” (e.g., a clicker or verbal cue like “yes”) to signal correct behavior

• Positive Reinforcement

• Using treats, praise, or toys to reward desired behavior

5. First Commands

Depending on your goals and your dog’s needs, the trainer may introduce simple commands, such as:

• Sit

• Watch me (focus on you)

• Name recognition

• Basic leash walking

6. Behavioral Insights

If you’re addressing a specific issue (e.g., barking, anxiety, or aggression), the trainer may provide insights into why the behavior occurs and suggest initial steps to manage it.

7. Homework and Practice

The trainer will assign “homework” exercises for you to practice before the next session.

These tasks are designed to reinforce the skills introduced during the session.

8. Questions and Feedback

You’ll have time to ask questions about techniques, timing, or behavior challenges.

The trainer may provide tips on improving consistency or avoiding common mistakes.

Tips for a Successful First Session

1. Prepare Treats

   Have high-value treats ready (e.g., small pieces of chicken or cheese) to keep your dog motivated.
   

2. Keep Your Dog Calm

   Give your dog some exercise beforehand but avoid tiring them out completely.
   

3. Minimize Distractions

   Choose a quiet area for training and remove unnecessary distractions.
   

4. Be Patient

   The first session is about setting the stage, so don’t expect instant results.
   

5. Take Notes

   Write down key tips and techniques to ensure you’re consistent when practicing.

Conclusion

The first training session is as much about teaching you as it is about training your dog. It’s a chance to build trust, establish goals, and set the tone for a successful training journey. By staying engaged, asking questions, and practicing regularly, you’ll see progress and strengthen the bond with your dog.