Autumn is a good time not just for humans to go back to school, but for dogs too. Asa and I are strong believers that training is not a one and done event, but instead a lifelong process. Even if you walk on a loose leash out of the obedience class, head held high, with diploma proudly in mouth, we all could use a refresher as old habits can come creeping back. Perhaps we didn’t pay as close attention in puppy class as we should have, or maybe we need to explore new techniques as we age and old visual or voice commands are more difficult to follow. Maybe you’re a puppy just starting out on your training journey, or a rescue dog who wants a second chance on developing skills. These are all good reasons to consult a dog trainer.
Be aware though that not all trainers are one size fits all. There are many different training techniques and philosophies available. What works for one dog, may not work with another. Also just because they are a trainer, not all trainers are good, or can handle your particular needs. Therefore it is important to do your research and ask questions!
Consider your goals. Before enrolling in training, ask yourself, “what do you want to accomplish?” Is it to finally stop dragging your person and walk on a loose leash instead? Is it mastering coming when called, so you can reliably be allowed off-leash? Or is it the polite greeting of friends and strangers? Do you have a behavioral issue that needs to be addressed like fearful towards other dogs or aggression? Do you want to work on particular skills to help with a sport you enjoy? Or are you working towards being certified as a therapy dog? Maybe you want that coveted Canine Good Citizen certification.
Once you have goals in mind, interview trainers. This is a business relationship. Although you may view them as your new best friend, it is important that your humans know who they are working with for that common goal. The following are some questions to consider when choosing a dog trainer:
What experience do they have? Now experience can mean a variety of things. Someone can say they have years of experience, but what is it exactly? Ask them to explain what they mean by “experience.” Things to keep in mind are, what hands-on experience do they have? Do they actively compete with dogs in rally, obedience trials, agility, make visitations with a therapy dog, or do other events and activities that require good communication between dog and handler? Have they formally trained certified therapy, service or working dogs? Do they have experience with behavior modification such as for fear or aggression? This is where knowing what you’d like to accomplish with your training is important. Do they have experience in the goal you’ve set?
What is their training education background? Were they formally trained or certified? Or did they come about being a trainer through a more organic approach? Are they certified to be a trainer / evaluator through a recognized organization? Do they belong to professional dog training organizations? Do they have a comprehensive background, or is it more singularly focused? Remember just because someone isn’t formally trained doesn’t mean they aren’t a good trainer. Just as much as even though they attended a formal training academy or are certified doesn’t mean that they know what they are doing. If you don’t know the academy / trainer who they are certified through, take the time to research it to find out. Use this conversation to get an understanding for the person’s background.
What is their training philosophy / method? Do they use positive reinforcement, clicker, physical restraint, or dominance? Do they require certain tools such as specific collars or leashes? Get a real world example by asking, “if my dog does a certain behavior (such as pulling on a leash) how will you respond?” This is an important question because if you do not agree on the method, disagreements will hinder what you want to accomplish from this class. The more you are on the same page working together, the greater the success rate. But don’t assume the person knows what is best. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t feel obligated to do it. This is why having a good understanding of their training philosophy prior to starting class is important.
What are the classes like? Are classes limited to just a few dogs, one on one attention, dogs with similar goals, or is it a larger class with a variety of ages and issues? How do they handle dogs who need more attention than others in a classroom setting? Are classes solely done in a specific setting, or are there “real world” opportunities to train where issues are more likely to occur? Does the trainer acknowledge this is a team effort and emphasize your role in training outside of class? Observe a class, and ask for references from previous clients. Also ask if it is possible to meet the trainer’s dog, to see how they interact.
Do they offer a guarantee? This is actually a red flag question. No dog trainer knows everything, and a good trainer will admit it. Also not all methods are successful for every dog. Some dogs need specialized training. Just like people learn at different rates, so do dogs. So if they “guarantee” your dog will be trained in a certain amount of time, ask them what that means exactly. Some may feel by showing up for the required classes, for a predetermined period of time, means a dog is trained. Whereas other trainers may recognize it takes longer for some dogs to get to the desired level. The trainer you choose should be committed to helping you, or be able to recommend a course of action if it is beyond their abilities to reach the goals you have set.
Sure this may seem like a lot of questions to have your humans ask and consider. However, in the end the more homework you do before signing them up for dog training, the better success rate you’ll have in reaching your goals. Oh and one more thing, be flexible with that goal! You may start classes with a single goal in mind, but the trainer may recognize other areas that could need improvement that will overall help you to be the dog you know you can be!
