Dog Training Classes are Part of Well-Rounded Canine Care.

Dog ownership involves love – and does not have to involve soiled rugs and chewed-up shoes. Our Asheville veterinarians at Charlotte Street Animal Hospital work with animals every day, with services that range from the routine to emergency vet care, and we know all too well the importance of proper dog training. While our animal hospital does not offer dog training classes, we do know experienced and compassionate trainers that do.

We encourage pet owners to discuss behavioral issues with our veterinarians. For serious behavioral issues, we refer pet owners to the behavior center for a consultation appointment.

Jumping, House Soiling, Excessive Barking, or Chewing

For common behavioral issues and general training like jumping, house soiling, excessive barking or chewing, we refer pet owners to the Train Station.

The Train Station is Asheville’s first walk-in dog training center and is open Monday through Friday from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. The Train Station does not require appointments and is a great resource for pet owners looking to solve common pet issues. Please email us or call us at 828-232-0440 for more information!

Train for Obedience, Socialization, a Deeper Bond, and Positive Behavior

Dog training classes can be valuable for dogs of all shapes, sizes and even ages. The adage is not true that an old dog cannot learn new tricks. It may take longer to break the unsavory habits of older dogs, but with enough diligence and repetition, new habits can be formed. Training is not just for unattractice behavior, either. It can help establish the rules of the household that prevent negative behaviors before they even start. Negative behaviors that are left unchecked can develop into full-fledged behavioral problems that seem insurmountable.

One of the top reasons people give up dogs is not because of a dog’s health, age or outside circumstance, but because of a dog’s negative behavior. Habits that were once easily modified can grow into major problems. Consistently working with a dog through methods taught at reputable dog training classes can eradicate the negative behavior and transform an unruly animal into a responsive, well-behaved, and lovable pet.

Dog training is valuable on many levels. Dogs that respond to commands such as “sit” and “stay” are less likely to run loose if they somehow get off their leash. This could save a trip to the emergency vet clinic – or a dog’s life. Knowing not to jump on or growl at guests who enter the home can save guests and owners a lot of anxiety and grief. Working closely with a dog during training helps establish a closer bond between owner and animal as well as reinforcing a dog’s penchant to please. It also helps socialize dogs so they know how to behave around other dogs, people, and even for a trip to the veterinarian office.

And then there are the tricks. Most dogs generally enjoy having a task, and learning tricks can give both the owner and dog satisfaction. Some tricks are useful, such as fetching a pair of non-chewed-up slippers, while others are all in fun. Positive reinforcement training, in which a dog is rewarded for positive behavior with a treat, toy, or affection, can be fun regardless of what skill a dog is developing. Dog training can be fun and useful for the entire family, and our Asheville animal hospital veterinarian team can help owners find the right resources.

When possible, it is helpful to start socializing your puppy at a young age. Learn more about our puppy socialization classes! Call us at 828-232-0440 for more information!