Ceasar Milan "The Dog Whisperer" has methods that are simple and direct and that work surprisingly well. His TV show is great too. He has books and videos for every stage of a dog's training. Brian Kilcommons is very gifted too- If you can, read "My Smart Puppy" and "Good Owners, Great Dogs" And I would also read the Monks of New Skete: "The Art of Raising a Puppy". All these people truly understand dogs and how to develop a great relationship with them.
As for classes and puppy school: They can be a mixed bag depending on trainers AND attendees. Their biggest plus is socialization and exposure to new things. Make sure you follow your instincts about what is right for you and your pup. We were enrolled in a couple of classes with past dogs with really awful instructors. They were punitive and harsh and engaged in much shouting to get what they wanted from a dog. Stupid. Even more stupid considering our dog was a terrier. (You have to use positive training methods with terriers and other "think for themselves" breeds.) We quit those classes! And in another class, a big husky treated our little dog as prey, both the trainer and the owner were not stopping the behavior, which was doing more harm than good for our dog, so we quit that one too. So I'm just saying to use your own good sense there.
If you are getting a small breed, remember to treat your little one like a dog, not a baby. (I say as I type one handed with my little dogs sleeping in my lap,) The best things for a new puppy are frequent and safe socialization with people and other pets, plus exposure in a non threatening way to new situations and sounds, etc. That makes for a confident and well adjusted pup who finds life a great adventure.
We have 4 dogs in our family - 3 of whom are rescues - and using the knowledge we gained from these books resulted in a happy and harmonious pack. They bring much joy and love to our family.
I wish you much joy with your new pup too!
Whatever You Are - Be a Good One!
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