The term “dog training” can mean many different things – this is an important fact to remember when deciding what exactly you need to do with your dog. First, there is "behavior training”. This is the kind of dog training in which a dog is taught to be good. Usually this would include house training, good behavior around other people and dogs, and other small things that make a dog a much more pleasant companion. A well-behaved dog attracts no special notice from members of the public (apart from occasional comments about their good manners). Next, there is "obedience training," which is teaching the dog how to perform specific activities. This can include traditional obedience exercises such as heeling. The emphasis here is on prompt and precise performance. While there can be many overall benefits to this kind of dog training, the training is not necessarily used in order to improve the dog's behavior.

Dogs that have been obedience trained will perform tasks when their owners ask them to do so. (Although, some obedience trained dogs may well behave poorly!) "Activity training" refers to dog training for specific activities – this could include hunting, herding, search and rescue or any of a number of activities designed to show off the abilities of the dog and his handler. These days, such activity also includes sports such as frisbee, flyball and agility. At times, these dog training methods can cross over somewhat. A certain amount of obedience training will help with behaviors, for example. A dog that is heeling will not pull on the leash. You will still want to keep this in mind when selecting a training class, however, so that it best matches your needs.