Choosing the right dog trainer: A good dog trainer must be a great teacher. This is critical to your dogs success and enjoyment in class. Dog training classes vary widely in style and quality of instruction. It is important to do research and make an informed choice before selecting a dog trainer. Before putting your dog's future in a trainer's hands, we recommend that you ask a lot of questions.
First, you have to decide what you want from a dog training class. Class styles vary, with the two primary approaches being the military-style precision training traditionally used for showing in the obedience ring, and family dog classes that are more concerned with teaching canine good manners and social skills.
The best way to determine whether a dog trainer is the right one for you and your dog is to ask if you can attend one or two classes prior to signing up and paying for a full 5-6 dog class sessions. You may discover that it's the perfect dog trainging class for your dog, or you may find that it's not the right fit for you and your dog at all.
One of the most important questions to ask today is whether or not your trainer is a CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINER (CPDT.com). The CCPDT's certification program is based on humane training practices and the latest scientific knowledge related to dog training. Competence and continued growth in training practices is promoted through the recertification of qualified professionals.
You care about your dog. You want a positive experience for both you and your four-footed friend. Whether you are looking for a training class or private training, you are looking for a high-quality, safe, and effective training experience.
One dog asks:
Why should I heel, stay, sit or come?
Another dog asks:
Why not?
When you choose a Certified Pet Dog Trainer, you can be confident that you are working with a professional who has the knowledge and expertise to make your investment in dog training safe, effective, and even fun! Certified Pet Dog Trainers have dog training skills as well as instructor skills to enhance the experience and success for you and your pet dog.
Certified Pet Dog Trainers have earned this credential by demonstrating their knowledge and experience in dog training. A Certified Pet Dog Trainer stays informed of current knowledge in the field and is familiar with the latest, most effective training techniques and equipment. A Certified Pet Dog Trainer adheres to a strict Code of Ethics.
The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers is committed to maintaining rigorous testing and recertification systems to provide dog owners with information to help them make an informed choice when selecting a dog trainer.
Not everyone will stay up to date with the latest dog training methods and practices. Your dog trainer must understand what is involved in canine behavior and how it works with training. Dog trainers who possess the CPDT credential demonstrate their committment to professional dog training, this is evident in the testing, continuing education and methods used. ASK for documentation.
Some trainers are locked into using one method of training, one training tool and one appraoch to all dogs. Not all dogs do well under these types of trainers and some people don't either. People become frustrated because the techique(s) being taught aren't working with their dog. They may feel that their dog is not as intelligent or as quick as someone else's dog. Dogs are as different and unique as people, they all learn differently and at a different pace. Seek a trainer that understands the use of many training tools, equipment and methods. A trainer should be able to offer each dog and owner a tailored training program that works for you and your dogs needs and conditions.
Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn more about your prospective dog trainer:
- Is the dog trainer Certified with proof of certification? Many trainers think that because they have been training dogs for years that they are suited to work with you and your dog. However, they are not always current on what is going on in the discovery of dog behavior and methods used today. Many of the methods used in the past are no longer humane and proper in the training of our dogs today. Look for a dog trainer who is professional and seeks the most modern training methods.
- Does your dog trainer attend and interact with Continuing Education Programs? This provides you with the most current and accurate methods used in dog training today. We are learning more about dogs and how they think and feel all the time.
- What will the dog trainer be teaching you and your dog every week?
- Does the trainer offer several different training techniques?
- What can you expect to get out of the class at the end of the session?
- Is water provided during class, especially on hot summer days?
- Does the dog trainer provide plastic bags incase a dog should have an accident during class?
Ask the dog trainer for a class schedule prior to the beginning of class and find out if you are allowed to observe classes prior to signing up. Any reputable dog trainer will agree. Beware of the dog trainer who won't allow you to observe the class before committing. Be sure to attend and observe whether or not the dog trainer is communicating clearly with a fun, happy approach. Some trainers may not be motivated to keep your attention and involvement. They may seem in a hurry to get somewhere and rush the class.
While observing the dog trainer, ask yourself:
- Do the students seem to understand and enjoy the material?
- Do the dog trainer's words and actions make sense to you?
- Does the dog trainer take the time to answer questions without intimidation?
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It's all about having FUN! |
In pursuit of happiness! | | 
