Just wanted to pick your brains for a while. My long-anticipated move to the US is now looking like it will be in a year - 18 months.

I know that training classes are frowned upon by many board members but I still feel that they are a good way of bringing training to the masses. Currently I do 121s in my venue or in people's homes as well as running 2 clubs (5 classes in total). In addition I run a monthly workshop for 'reactive'/aggressive dogs as well as scentwork, crash courses etc. Currently live in the UK and will be moving to the SC area.

How does dog training work in America?
What type of venues are used?
Are indoor / outdoor classes more popular?
What is the average class size?
Length of courses?
Generally do people pay up front for a whole course?
What is a reasonable rate for 121's and classes? and mileage to travel to 121's if needed.

Also what else can you tell me that might help me get an idea? I'm planning on starting small and gradually building up my reputation the same way that I have had here.

I had to google 121... still not 100% sure of what it is, but I think it's training focused on your dogs needs?

As far as how it works, you'll find all types here, from great trainers with great results to "oh my word, I don't see why someone would pay them for lessons.." From purely clicker training with no aversive prongs, etc, to purely correction based.

There are a lot of both group and private training options. People tend to find one that is a good fit for them/their dog - a different strokes for different folks sort of thing.

Classes are generally paid for upfront

Indoor/outdoor - it all depends on what you're training for and the local weather!

Travel is all going to depend on where you live - for me I'd have to travel for 25-45 miles for class that I would consider going to.

8 weeks is a pretty common course length.

Prices vary by region, but around here they run $70-$100 for a 8 week course.

If I were looking for a class to go t I'd look at instructer experience (titles? what do their personal dogs look like? length of time training, etc). The average person is looking more for someone to help them put good manners on thier dog (sit, don't jump up, come when called, etc) So if you've got a well mannered dog you can show off, they'll be impressed.

Tell me what the American equivalent is for a "121" ( I have *no* idea what you mean by that ) and I'll give you an opinion.

One to One, or more likely the same as One on One.

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Mara's answer is much better.

Edited by Connie Sutherland (12/28/2011 06:06 PM)
Edit reason: delete

Sorry a 121 is a private lesson, focussing either on behaviours that cannot be covered in a group class or where group training hasn't helped (i.e. pulling on leash outside the training venue). Sometimes it covers training in their home; i.e. behaviour with guests, food aggression etc. It's one trainer to one dog (or dogs within the same family). Some people prefer 121 lessons rather than classes or cannot make scheduled classes.

Basically I'll be moving somewhere near charleston sc. Which has the normal mix of urban and rural areas. Where exactly will depend on where we can afford to live...

While I will do private training for one dog - that seems pretty straightforward, not much different from here in the UK. Running classes for 6/7 dogs seems like it would present some logistical problems - here most clubs (basic pet obedience) are run in youth centers and church halls, where do yours tend to be?

I'm qualified and my current (Retired through injury) dog has obedience, sch/ipo, working trials titles - so that's not a problem although I will consider joining a US organisation in the future.

Basically I guess I'm trying to get some ideas.
My training is middle of the road, I prefer reward based training but also utilise corrections / tools when appropriate. Generally my group classes are limited to basic > intermediate obedience (good manners) and the odd fun workshop like scentwork or fun tracking. With 121's I cover anything from basic training through to aggression / rehabilitation.

I use our club (during non-club hours) for classes. We lease a field and barn from a farmer.

I don't know if I've heard of private dog classes in public buildings, but maybe it's just here. How does the liability work? Does the building owner require an insurance bond and a hold-harmless when they rent out the space?

But I do almost all "121" -- now that I know what it means. LOL

A field and barn... sigh sounds perfect to me.

The venues I use are available for anyone to hire, like yoga classes, wedding receptions etc. I have insurance but have never been asked for proof of it - or even if I have it One hall made me pay a deposit for damages. They seem more interested in making me sweep the floor before I go home.

It's surprising how much American engligh differs from English isn't it? I've almost got the hang of leash instead of lead but I don't think I can do behavior rather than behaviour.
I'm in sunny SC at the moment, with no dogs to train - normally I volunteer at the shelter to get my doggy fix but at the moment I'm on crutches too, hence the time to think.