We have taken two PetSmart training classes at two different PetSmart stores (different states). We would like to share our experience to help you decide whether a PetSmart training class is right for you and your beloved dog!
PROS: First-time Dog Parents: If you have never had a dog before. It is a lot easier to learn from a trainer with live demonstrations. Sometimes the problem is not the dog, sometimes the problem is us. A professional trainer can pick up what you are doing improperly and correct you promptly.
Socialization: If you have a puppy, a shy dog (e.g. a rescue), the puppy / beginner class is a safe environment for supervised socialization. My rescue went from hiding under my chair in the first session to loving everyone in the final session.
Price: If you must take a class, PetSmart’s pricing is rather economical comparing to most private dog training institutes. PetSmart charges about $100 for an 8-week class (1 session per week) while most private dog training institutes I’ve called charge $200+ for a similar group class. I have heard that AKC offers affordable classes too but their location was not convenient for us.
Coupons: Our beginner class trainer handed out one coupon at each session. These are PetSmart coupons for dog treats or dog food. Usually the coupons expire at the end of the year, so I waited to use the coupons when the items are on sale and got some pretty good deals for my dog!
Graduation Gifts: When we took the beginner's class, the trainer made goodie bags for each graduating dog! For the intermediate class, the trainer only made one goodie bag and we had to raffle for it.
CONS: Quality of Trainer: The quality of the class heavily depends on the quality of the trainer. Our beginner class trainer reminded me of my grandma. She was nice but she was very forgetful and sometimes lacks the energy needed to run the class. Our intermediate trainer happens to be the regional trainer of the regular PetSmart trainers. She was very knowledge but she didn’t bother to give us coupons or make graduation gift for each dog. Also, she has a personal preference for large show dogs. As a small dog owner, we were often neglected.
Class Content: The tricks and tips taught in the beginner and intermediate classes are not that useful unless you are a first-time dog owner. In that case, the only benefit of paying $100+ for the class is to put you and your dog on a regular schedule to go to class and do "homework".
TO DO’S BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR A CLASS: 1) Ask your dog parent friends and see if they have experience with your local PetSmart training class.
2) Often there is more than one trainer teaching at a PetSmart store, make your money worth by choosing the better trainer.
3) At one of the PetSmart we went to, we had to fill out a survey during the last training session. That PetSmart kept all the surveys in a binder for any customers to look at. Check if there is such a binder at your store, read the comments and see if the trainer is suitable for you and your dog.
4) The PetSmart classes are usually conducted in a classroom with a ceiling-to-floor glass wall. You can “audit” the class from watching outside the classroom. Just make sure you don’t distract the parents / dogs in the class.
5) The trainers are happy to talk to potential customers. Catch them before or after class. Talk to them; ask about their training background / experience, class syllabus / schedule, etc. Try to get a “feel” on whether you want to take his / her class.
