I took my dog to a place called Sit Happens.
I liked it because you get a # of sessions and you check their calendar and go to the classes on the times/dates which fit your calendar. I believe you get a year to use up all your sessions.
I found it to be ok to learn the basics.
I suggest you go with low expectations. If you're going with the mindset that after 6-8 sessions that your dog will be magically trained, you'll be disappointed. Don't get me wrong, you'll see some improvement, but it requires lots and lots of patience and practice on your own outside of your classes.
Ive also heard good things about Clever Canines, but haven't been there myself. I know they have a pretty hardcore (and expensive) program.
Heeling is tough. Ive been trying to get my guy to do a consistant heel at my left knee for over a year now. After a year, I'd give him maybe a 7/10. His pulling has decreased significantly, but he still wanders off a bit to chase some good smells as we come across them.
What I found to be effective was to stop walking every time he pulls. Wait till he comes back to the "start" position, give him a treat, then start walking again and then repeat over and over. It takes time. When you're first starting out, it could take you like 15 mins to walk 4-5 steps...
Please recommend a Dog Trainer
. He's pretty much well trained in letting us know when he has to go outside in order to go..good at listening to basic commands (sit, stand and down). I think I want to deal with his behavioral issues mostly..as he gets way too excited when people come over, including us, by jumping and running around. Still likes to pick up random things from the floor or my socks and run away from us when we try to get it back from him. Barking at the slightest noise he hears coming from elsewhere. Lastly, he constantly pulls when being walked, so I'd like to start training him to heel.
