Finding a Trainer

It's important to find the right trainer for your dog. For recommendations, talk to your veterinarian, groomer, pet sitter, boarding facility, breed club, local humane organization, or dog-owning friends, neighbors, or family members.

~ Once you've identified possible trainers in your area, evaluate their qualifications and personalities carefully. Different dogs respond to different types of training. If your dog is fearful and shy, he needs a trainer who can put him at ease; if he tends to be dominant and stubborn, he needs a trainer who can be positive but firm.

~ Call the trainers on your list and ask about training background, including breeds of dogs and types of behaviors they specialize in, years of experience, and professional training. Be sure the trainer practices humane training techniques that use positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior. Avoid trainers who use harsh methods such as yelling, shaking the scruff, or choking.

~ Other things to consider are whether the trainer is affiliated with reputable associations and training clubs such as the Asociation of Pet Dog Trainers, and whether she keeps up-to-date in the field by attending training and animal behavior courses, conferences, and workshops.

~ As you talk to a trainer, try to gauge her personality and philosphy about dogs. Does she have a positive attitude and a sense of humor that will help make training fun for you and your dog? Does the trainer appear to have strong communication skills to make learning easier and more enjoyable? Does the trainer convey a respect for dogs? Do you get a good gut feeling when talking to her? If not, move on to the nextr trainer on your list.

~ If you are considering group lessons, observe a class and the trainer at work efore making the commitment to join. Watch to see how she interacts with dogs and handlers. Is she fun, upbeat, and positive? Do the dogs and handlers seem engaged and responsive? If the answer is yes, this might be a good class for you and your dog.