So we've established the need for a guard dog training program for your dog. It's a highly advised that you put your dog through the program if you want to be able to depend on it in the future. But now it's time we talk about the thing that comes after – how do you find a good guard dog training school?
Guard dog training schools are few and hard to come by. Here are some pointers on what makes a very good guard dog training school.
An excellent reputation
The last thing you want to do is send your dog off to a guard dog training school with a bad reputation for its ineffective training methods, mistreating of animals, and overall poor service. You and your dog are only going to do this once, so at least put in the effort to try and find a good school.
You can ask your vet, ask a friend breeder, or even ask the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) for good recommendations. Although we doubt the last one wouldn't be able to give you advice, you may also solicit recommendations from other dog owners if you're still clueless at this point.
All this talk of reputation brings us to the next topic…
Humane training methods
Responsible guard dog training schools don't just train your dog – they also train their trainers to use only humane training methods, nothing else. If a school was recommended to you by the ASPCA then rest assured its training methods are up to standards.
Guard dogs are often trained from while they're still a pup. Training takes anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on how well the dog picks up. Specific lessons—for example, Obedience Training—usually takes a month to complete.
Extensive knowledge on dog behavioral problems
What you're looking for is a guard dog training school with lots of experience with different kinds of dog breeds. The trainers themselves are an important factor in all this, so the school should keep their trainers up-to-date by having them attend seminars after every couple months or so. You can't go wrong with this kind of trainer and dog school on your side.
Prices for lessons range between $5,000 to $9,000 for 8 weeks. It depends on the complexity of the program that determines whether the price goes up or down. In any case, a good guard dog training school is a must.