Animal shelters report house training difficulties, mouthing, biting,chewing, excess energy, and exuberance are just a few of the reasons people give up their dogs. All of these are perfectly natural and normal behaviors that are easily controlled through proper guidance, instruction, and management.

Puppyhood is an amazing time. Anyone who has lived through this will readily admit one minute their puppy is cute and cuddly and the next they're driving you crazy. Puppy training class is one way to help make the adjustment process a positive one.

A comprehensive puppy program contains both behavior training and temperament training in addition to very basic obedience. So, when do you start training and socializing your puppy? As soon as possible, while your puppy is still in its "critical" or "sensitive" period. Research shows the critical time frame for puppies is between 3 and 14 weeks of age. Socialization means giving your puppy careful, positive exposure to all the things they might encounter as an adult dog. Dogs need socialization throughout their entire lives. The critical window of opportunity, however, for determining social relationships happens only once in your dog's life. It's called the critical period because a relatively small amount of change during this time has a lifelong effect on your dog's future.

You should also be aware that there is some risk of disease involved when young puppies are exposed to the world prior to being fully vaccinated. Most puppies receive their last set of puppy vaccinations around 16 weeks of age. Because the critical time for socialization is roughly between 3 and 14 weeks of age you risk the threat of disease if you take your puppy out and about during this time. If you wait until your puppy is fully vaccinated, you risk inadequate socialization. It's a compromise either way, and a decision you have to make and be comfortable with. Keep in mind, however, there are indications that many more dogs die each year due to hehavioral problems than from disease. Talk to your veterinarian about safety measures and ways to cut risks while taking advantage of this critical age period.

The best way to find the best puppy class for your pet is by referral. Ask friends and relatives. Find out what they liked or disliked about going to class. Ask your veterinarian. They usually have a list of competent trainers. Most important, call and talk to the trainers. Ask a lot of questions and find out if you can observe a class in progress. Respectable trainers will allow you the opportunity to see first hand what their program is all about.

When searching for an appropriate puppy class, here are a few things to think about. First and foremost is health and safety. Requirements should include that minimally all puppies have had their first puppy vaccination. Breeds prone to parvovirus are to have their second vaccination before entering class. To ensure the well being of the class, all puppies need to be healthy. No puppy should be allowed to class if they are showing signs of illness; i.e., diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy. In the case of an ill puppy, their caretakers should be encouraged to attend class without their puppy to learn what the rest of the class is doing and practice with their puppy until it can resume class. Puppy classes should be held in a safe enclosed space, preferably indoors where any "accidents" can be effectively cleaned up and the area immediately sanitized.

An emphasis on positive teaching techniques is a must. The most important aspect during the puppy's critical period is confidence building and positive experiences. Caretakers take the lead, you set up the interactions, control the environment, and provide the reinforcement (food, toys, etc.).

Remember, puppies are members of a different species who have to be taught what we expect of them. They're not born wearing leashes and collars. They don't understand English. It's our job to provide guidance and an enriched social structure that enables these remarkable creatures to happily coexist in our world. Be patient. Enjoy your pet's puppyhood and the wonderful experience it should provide both of you.