Choosing A Dog Trainer

Don't Rely on Advertising Alone

First of all, it's important to note that dog obedience training is an unlicensed profession. Calling themselves dog trainers or canine behaviorists or dog obedience specialists, just about anyone can place an ad anywhere they choose without regulation of any kind. So never pick a dog trainer solely on the basis of advertising.

Get Referrals

The most reliable method of finding professional dog trainers is through referrals. Ask veterinarians who they recommend. Ask your friends with well-mannered dogs for the names of their dog trainers.

Ask Questions

Once you've gotten some names, it is essential to check the dog trainers' credentials before committing to a course of lessons for you and your dog. So make some phone calls and ask a lot of questions:

How did you learn to train dogs?

How long have you been training dogs?

What kind of teaching background do you have?

Is dog training your full-time job, part-time job, or just a hobby?

Ask the trainer if you can observe a class or speak to a current client.
(This will allow you to watch their dog obedience training techniques or inquire about their dog obedience training methods.)

Remember, you're looking for an experienced professional... not just someone who likes dogs a lot and makes a little money by doing some dog training. The instructor's qualifications may well be the key to a successfully trained dog.

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