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Is it possible to train your dog from a DVD? Can you begin with a young puppy with sharp teeth and wild energy yet somehow end up with a well-trained member of your family? Or if you have an older dog in need of some training, can you teach it all the basic things you want it to learn: sit, stay, come, and so on?

The answer is evident: maybe.

If you are willing to work a bit, you can do it. Dogs really love to learn new things, and you can get an excellent DVD on how to train your dog. So it’s up to you: if you want to do it, you can. The DVD will show you what to do — and it can also help keep you motivated!

Here is what to do. Think about when the training will fit into your schedule. The best is if you can do three to five sessions most days, but even two sessions a day — likely before you feed the dog breakfast and dinner — are useful. Several sessions are better than one long one because studies have shown that dogs learn better this way.

So if planning and following through don’t bother you, chances are excellent that you can train your dog by using a DVD.

Is it better to use a DVD or to take a class?

In deciding whether to train your dog with a DVD or to take him to a class, one of the main factors is whether you can find a trainer nearby whose approach you like. Positive, pain-free methods work more effectively in training dogs, but many trainers learned their methods years ago and haven’t made the switch to the newer techniques. Also, of course, consider the cost and the timing of the classes.

If there is a dog training class in your vicinity that uses positive methods, it’s a good idea to take it if you can. This doesn’t rule out using a DVD as well. There is always more to learn about dog training. Most dogs really enjoy the positive form of training, and you can deepen your bond with your dog by continuing to train.

What DVD to Use in Training Your Dog?

Be sure to get a DVD using positive reinforcement methods. I was very pleased to find Train Your Dog: The Positive, Gentle Method, with Nicole Wilde and Laura Bourhenne. I had read some of Wilde’s books and was not surprised at the high quality of the program. It covers come, sit, stay, puppy training, and much more.