How to Find a Good Professional Dog Trainer

In order to have a happy, well-adjusted dog, training cannot be neglected. If you don’t have the time, energy or patience to undertake proper dog training, a good solution is to find a professional dog trainer.

Training techniques and methods, as well as quality and cost, vary from trainer to trainer. These variances can be used to help you find a suitable trainer.

In order for the training to be effective, you need to have a clear idea of what your goals are. Costs range from free; where volunteers provide weekly training at some parks or shelters; to $100 or more per session. What you deem reasonable will depend on they type of training, length of program and experience you are hoping to receive for your money.

As well as cost, you also need to consider the amount of time required for different training programs. Does the program you’re looking at require you to drop off and pick up your dog at certain times or are you required to be involved with the training. Are the sessions weekly, or more often? No matter which program you choose, most will encourage you to spend a little time each day training your pet.

How committed are you to the training? Early in the training process, dogs need considerable time and attention regularly in order to learn.

An option for some people who have limited time is a ‘boot camp’ type training program. The dog attends a specialized facility for regular, intensive training for up to several weeks. There’s no need to worry about your pet as dogs love this type of program. Usually towards the end of the program you will need to take part so that obedience can be transfers from the trainer to you.

The results from this type of training are usually astounding. Dogs who take part are follow commands well and are disciplined without being repressed. They are still playful and full of energy.

What do you hope to get from your dog through the training? No matter what level of obedience you require – from a show dog to just wanting your pet not to chase the cat – regular training is needed. But the type of training will differ depending on your goals, the breed and individual character.

Like humans, dogs have different personalities. Some are scared, either from previous mistreatment or an inborn tendency towards submission. Some are too assertive, again because of previous abuse or a natural motivation to be alpha (leader). The training you choose will depend on individual character and the attributes you want to shape.

No matter what your goals, budget or commitment are, you want a trainer who with endless patience and energy and an enormous love for dogs. Most have these characteristics in spades.

If these basic characteristics are met, you will want to match your dog with a trainer who can meet your expectations. Some believe that it is more about training the owner than the dog - and there's some truth to that. Some are relaxed and friendly, with a more gentle style. Others prefer a police or military style training. Most lie somewhere between the two extremes.

There is no ‘blanket’ style that will suit all dogs, but there are universal standards that most trainers will agree on. The need for patience, perseverance and regularity are required, and it is important that the human is the ‘leader’ in the relationship.

Be prepared to shop around and ask for recommendations from other dog owners. Be willing to change trainers to find the one that is best suited, but have good reasons to change, as in order to learn effectively, dogs require consistency and a recurring environment.

         

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