There are several very important things to consider when selecting a trainer. For the purpose of this post, let’s talk only about obedience training classes, not about boarding and having someone else train your dog. If you want to board your dog and have it trained because you don’t have the time, you should probably think about getting rid of your dog and buying a goldfish. Also, I’ll leave the discussion of selecting a trainer for sport or personal protection for another thread.
First and foremost, you have to choose a trainer you like, and I don’t mean simply because they are attractive, nearby or cheap.
You need to like their training methods. There are so many “correct” methods to train a dog that your personal preference might affect whether you like a trainer or not. Do you prefer using praise, treats, a clicker, a halti, a choke chain, a prong collar or an electronic collar or some combination of them? Some trainers use only one or two methods listed, while others can and do use all of the tools in the toolbox.
You need to like their ability to explain each aspect of their training program to you. Any truthful trainer will tell you it’s much easier to train the dog than the handler. Only with a good understanding of what you’re trying to accomplish, will you be able to stay one step ahead of your canine partner on the learning curve. He has to inspire confidence in you and have the answers to any questions you might ask.
Second, you have to choose a competent trainer. This is probably the hardest. Don’t simply watch the trainer work his dog. Ask if you can come and observe one of his private classes, or even better, a group class if he has one. Speak with other customers and see if they are satisfied with the results of their training. The trainer should be happy to give you a reference list of clients. Don’t be afraid to ask! This is YOUR dog we’re talking about here and you are going to have to live a lifetime with him. You want to get it right the first time.
Third, it is a positive thing if the potential trainer is familiar with your breed or type of dog. Training methods can vary greatly between a Chihuahua, a Belgium Malinois and an English Mastiff. What’s good for the goose ain’t necessarily good for the gander in the realm of dog training.
Basic obedience is the most important thing you can teach your dog. Quick and absolute response to the commands of sit, down, stay and come can save your dog’s life. Only the heel command is for your benefit.
Keep in mind that an obedience trainer isn’t going to train your dog for you. Ultimately, that is your responsibility. What you are paying for is his experience, his expertise, his guidance and sometimes a shoulder to cry on when you think that your dog has some sort of mysterious mental disability.
Now, go pick one, good luck and get ‘er done!
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