Bespoke Training v Puppy Classes in Edinburgh. What Works Best for You?
Puppy Classes - Pros & Cons
Puppy classes can be great. You get socialisation, a set structure and, if you’re in the right class, a solid trainer guiding you. I know some excellent classes I’d happily recommend.
But here’s the reality: classes are generic and not for every dog.
They run on a timetable.
You feel pressured to keep up with everyone else’s pace, whether you or your puppy are ready or not.
If your pup is shy, overwhelmed, or just desperate to play with the other puppies, you can spend the whole hour feeling like you’ve wasted your time.
I’ve seen pups hide under chairs, drag their owners around the hall, bark incessantly or tune out completely.
That’s where bespoke training shines.
Why Bespoke Puppy Training Works Better for Many Owners
You set the pace, not the group.
You can bring the whole family, so everyone learns consistently.
We focus on your lifestyle and needs, not a one-size-fits-all syllabus.
You get time to ask questions and actually practise, instead of watching the clock.
We lay down solid foundations first, then build distraction training later when you and your puppy are ready.
How to Decide Between Classes and Bespoke Training
I taught at classes for years (not mine), and while some owners thrived, too many left discouraged.
Too busy, too chaotic, not enough personal guidance and demoralising.
That’s why I now prefer one-to-ones:
You get my full attention, your puppy gets the best start, and you don’t leave feeling more lost than when you arrived.
Bespoke isn’t about avoiding other dogs and triggers. It’s about building the skills first, then adding distractions in a way that sets you and your puppy up for success.
If you’re unsure what’s right for you, message me. I’ll tell you straight whether a class or bespoke training would suit you best and even recommend good classes if that’s the way to go.