Why Every Dog Deserves Learning Via Class — And Why Every Human Needs It

One of the most revealing questions on our adoption application is:
“Will you be taking your dog to training classes?”

More often than not, the answer is a confident:
“Only if the dog needs it.”

Here’s the thing—most dogs don’t need training to be dogs. They’re experts at barking, jumping, digging, pottying indoors, and all sorts of wonderfully natural, and sometimes frustrating behaviors. Many of the dogs that come into rescue are there because they are smart but no one took the time to teach them.  They have behaviors like ignoring cues, jumping, running for a good game of chase and more. They aren’t “bad”—they were just being dogs.

So, do dogs need training class? Honestly, it’s us humans who do.

The Truth About Training Classes

Training classes aren’t just about teaching your dog to sit, wait, or walk nicely on a leash. They’re about learning how to communicate, connect, bond and co-exist peacefully with an animal that doesn’t speak our language—but still wants to understand us and loves us! It’s about teaching another species to live in our human world – a world with very different rules than their world.

My Journey from Frustration to Fulfillment

Years ago, I thought I had this dog thing figured out. I had adopted and fostered many dogs and like everyone says to me “I had dogs my whole life”. Then along came Ayanna, a fearful, underweight Italian Greyhound who turned my world upside down. She was abandoned in a shelter with her littermates before her first birthday.

She marked inside, didn’t listen, and made every day a challenge. I didn’t bond with her. I just hoped someone would adopt her and SOON!

She did get adopted. Not once, but twice, and she was also returned both times.

It was then I realized: If I didn’t enjoy living with her, how could I expect anyone else to?

I enrolled us in both group classes and private lessons. What changed wasn’t just Ayanna’s behavior—it was my entire perspective and boy did I learn a lot. I learned how to meet her needs, communicate effectively, and understand her motivations. Ayanna became my heart dog, earning her Canine Good Citizen title, Therapy  Certification, Lure Coursing titles and more. But she did so much more.  She inspired me to become a trainer and eventually a behavior consultant.

Why Training Matters

Here’s what I’ve learned—why training benefits every dog and every human:

 Improves Communication

Training bridges the communication gap between you and your dog. Dogs don’t speak English—they rely on body language, scent, and what works in their world. Training will help you both understand each other better as you learn to not only understand but also respect their communication signals.

 Builds a Stronger Bond

When your dog knows what’s expected, his world makes more sense and is less stressful for him.  Frustration decreases and trust grows. A trained dog isn’t just smart—they’re connected.

 Equips You With Tools

Training gives you a toolkit for real-life challenges—whether it’s polite greetings, reliable recalls, or navigating new environments. It helps you help your dog cope with our human world. By teaching some  “default” behaviors your dog has some alternative behaviors to do when he isn’t sure how to respond to things in his world.

 Promotes Socialization

In-class experiences help dogs feel learn to interact and listen to cues around other dogs and people in a safe setting.

 Makes Learning Fun

Most dogs love to learn! They get excited to train because it engages their mind, earns them rewards, and strengthens their relationship with you.

Prepares Dogs for Real Life

Training helps dogs behave not just at home, but in the world.  A dog with a training foundation can have a fuller life and go more places—vacations, therapy visits, cafes, and beyond.

 Boosts Confidence

A dog that knows how to navigate the human world is a confident dog. Training helps all dogs and even shy or fearful dogs can build their confidence and resiliency.

 Ensures Safety

A solid recall command can save your dog’s life. That alone is reason enough to invest in training.

Prevents Behavior Problems

According to a 2024 study, dogs who took puppy class ideally before 6 months of age had less behavior problems than adults including:

• A 29 percent reduction in the likelihood of displaying aggressive behavior.
• A 40 percent reduction in the likelihood of exhibiting destructive behavior.
• A 36 percent reduction in the likelihood of having compulsive behaviors.
• A 32 percent reduction in the odds of engaging in excessive barking.

Final Thoughts

Ayanna didn’t just change my life—she transformed it. She taught me that teaching a dog to live in our human world isn’t a chore; it’s a gift. It’s an act of love and understanding. And it’s something every dog—and every human—can benefit from.

So, does your dog need a training class?

Maybe not. But you do. And your dog will thank you for it.