Finding the Right Trainer for your Dog

I know it’s hard to find the right dog trainer for your dog. And, sometimes, it is even harder for you to admit that you (or your dog) needs a trainer.

Remember how you thought it was cute that your puppy ate all your dinner, tore up your suitcase, and then finally peed on your carpet. What was cute is now driving you crazy. That is when you know it is time for a trainer.

Some people know how to train and it works for a while. And then the consistency is off with your dog. He no longer stops when you ask him to. Maybe the technique isn’t right. Either way, your dog is grown up and jumping up on friends and guests, grabbing things off the counter, or digging holes in the yard is becoming a big problem that can’t be solved by just you. It’s time for a trainer!

You can definitely try it yourself, but sometimes your dog(s) need someone besides you, whom is trained in the field, to help discipline him or her. At least, someone to help give you tips.

There are a lot of dog trainers out there, so how do you find the right one.

There are group classes and individual private training. If you believe your dog can handle group classes and not be too distracted and is well-socialized, ask if you can visit the school prior to signing up. You want to see if you’ll feel comfortable with the class you’re thinking about, the trainer, the other dogs, and people. The only way to know this or get a feel for it is to observe a class.

If they let you watch, take note of the student to teacher ratio, observe the instructor, and read their policies about make up classes, if there’s a refund if your dog can’t work well in a group setting, and schedule that can fit your schedule. This can be very important because it is hard to always know when it is the right fit.

Individual training is sometimes better as it helps you and your dog focus more on the lessons. The scheduling is often more flexible as well. When reviewing the individual trainers in your area ask what the length of time is for each session, recommendations from past clients, if payment is by the session or a flat fee, and cancellation policy.

Some trainers also offer email and phone call advice when they aren’t with you and others offer follow up training tips. The advantage of a private trainer is that the techniques can be tailored for your individual needs and you’ll work one-on-one. This can sometimes bring out results faster from your dog and your own behavior.

Another way to go is to see how other dogs behave in the dog park or wherever you meet other dogs and their owners. And, then ask or get a referral of who they use.

Training the puppies while they are young will only be beneficial to you and your pet in the long run. So, don’t be humble about getting help and set your dog on the right track.

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