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What to Look for in a Professional Dog Trainer
When the time comes to enlist the help of a professional dog
trainer, you will not only want to know what to expect but what
questions you need to ask before you spend your money. Training
your dog is possibly the best investment you will ever make for
your pet. Be informed and do some research to find the best
possible trainer for you and your dog. There are no legal
requirements to determine who may go into the business of
training dogs.
There are professional associations and certifications in the
dog training industry, but having a certificate does not make a
person a good dog trainer. There are other qualities that you
will want to look for as well.
Professional Dog Trainer Credentials
When talking to potential trainers for you and your dog, find
out where they learned to train dogs. It is often best to find
someone that has worked for another trainer or done an
apprenticeship. You will also want to know if they have taken
the time to obtain some formal education in their chosen field.
Some people have attended dog training schools, others will
attend seminars and conferences periodically. A trainer that
goes to the effort to keep her skills updated and to learn more
about her job is likely to do a good job for her clients.
Memberships in professional associations may also demonstrate
that a trainer is interested in being informed about and
involved in her industry.
Though there are not any laws regarding who may call
themselves a dog trainer, there are several agencies that offer
certificates for dog trainers. The National Association of Dog
Obedience Instructors, The International Association of Animal
Behavior Consultants, and The Certification Council for Pet Dog
Trainers are a few of the more recognized certifying agencies.
Satisfied Clients
Do not rely solely upon certifications and education when
selecting a professional dog trainer. Ask for at least two
customer references, and also a reference from another dog
trainer. This will let you know if your prospective trainer is
an established professional.
The Particulars
Once you have your dog trainer candidates narrowed down to a
two or three, you will be ready to determine if he or she is a
good fit for you and your dog. Cost is usually the first concern
for most dog owners. Find out what the trainer charges and what
types of service he offers. For instance, you may not be able to
afford a board and train program but weekly private lessons may
be a budgetary option.
You will also want to know what training methods your trainer
will be using. Learn about some of the methods to be sure you
are going to be comfortable using them with your dog. Listen to
your intuition, if a training method feels wrong to you do not
use it. Find another trainer instead.
Seeing is believing. Ask your trainer if you may come to a
class or session they are teaching without your dog to observe
their work. Note the type of response the trainer gets from the
canine client and the human. If all involved are attentive and
engaged you may have found the perfect dog trainer for you!
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