Too many dogs are put down or sent to shelters because they have behavioral problems that an owner cannot handle. Often, these behavioral issues can be resolved with a small amount of training. It is the responsibility of every dog owner to seek the help of a professional to teach basic obedience and to correct inappropriate behavior, rather than ignoring it until the animal has to be given away. Selecting a dog trainer who works well with both you and your dog is crucial for successful training, whether it’s for basic obedience, agility competition, or behavior correction.
Currently, there is no government agency that licenses or regulates dog trainers. While many trainers’ associations offer memberships, do not assume that such a membership guarantees an instructor’s suitability. Recommendations from friends, neighbors, veterinarians, or even your local humane society can be invaluable resources for finding a good trainer. If you see a dog at the local park who is extraordinarily well-behaved, ask the owner for the name of the dog’s trainer; they will likely be flattered by your interest and happy to share the trainer’s information! Before committing to classes or individual sessions, speak with the trainer, observe their teaching methods, and interact with their own dogs. If their dogs seem unruly or ill-mannered, move on. However, if their dogs are impeccably behaved, you may have found the right trainer for you.
Questions to Ask a Dog Trainer
The key to finding a suitable trainer for you and your dog is asking the right questions before you begin. Inquire about the trainer’s education and whether they participate in continuing education. Ask how many years of experience they have and request references from previous or current clients. Find out if the trainer is familiar with the canine ‘good citizen’ program and whether they are qualified as a program evaluator. Ask about the training methods they use, as many trainers employ different approaches depending on the dog’s personality and response. Ensure the trainer answers your questions clearly, using terms you can understand, as effective communication is essential between you and your trainer.
As you observe training sessions, make sure the trainer consistently uses humane techniques to promote appropriate behavior. Positive reinforcement—such as food, praise, or attention—is crucial. A skilled trainer would never use harmful methods like hanging, kicking, beating, shocking, or any other techniques that cause undue stress, pain, or physical harm. Pay attention to the trainer’s tone and attitude. They should maintain a positive mindset, have a sense of humor, and possess a genuine fondness for both dogs and people. While we may think that dog training is solely for the dogs, it’s actually just as much for the dog owners. A trainer should enjoy working with both!
The trainer should also be approachable, encouraging students to have fun during class.
Once training begins, ensure that your dog responds well to the methods used by the trainer. Every dog reacts to training differently. If your dog struggles to learn with one trainer, don’t hesitate to try another. Your ultimate goal is for your dog to learn, and if this requires working with a different trainer or specialist, then do so.
A good dog trainer will want both you and your dog to succeed. They will take the necessary time to help you achieve your goals. While most trainers cannot guarantee specific results, many are willing to ensure client satisfaction by allowing classes to be retaken if needed.
Ideally, the training your dog receives will help keep him obedient, safe, and happy, and will ensure that you remain in charge for the rest of your dog’s life. Training classes will also provide opportunities for socialization with other dogs and owners, and may even lead to lifelong playmates. Choosing the right dog trainer can be a challenging task, but with the right questions and careful observation, you’ll be more likely to find a great trainer who will be an excellent teacher for both you and your canine companion.
