Choosing a Dog Trainer can be an overwhelming ordeal for first-time dog owners. Even though they mean well, some people unwittingly hire dog trainers that are uneducated, uncertified, or employ questionable practices.
Dog owners must use extreme caution when selecting a trainer, as the dog training business is currently unlicensed and uncontrolled. Additionally, a great resource is the Certified Dog Trainer Database maintained by Animal Behavior College (ABC).
One of the best ways for owners to develop a deeper connection with their dogs is through obedience training.
1) Find out what your chosen trainer is good at.
Know their speciality
In addition to teaching dogs the basics of obedience, many dog trainers also provide services to help with behavioral issues such destructive chewing, biting, or destroying furniture. Pick a dog trainer that is well-versed in working with your breed and can cater to its unique requirements.
2) Believe in Your Gut Instincts
Get in touch with the trainer to set up a meeting if the references check up. Is the trainer someone that both you and your dog feel at ease with? Is this trainer someone you feel comfortable entrusting with your pet? How approachable and competent is the trainer? If you have any reservations, go with your gut and continue searching instead of this trainer.
Both online and on-campus dog trainer courses are available from ABC. Learn about learning theories, canine basic obedience cues, efficient problem-solving, company building, pet first aid, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) among many other pertinent subjects in this curriculum. Whether they want to work for an existing company, create their own dog training business, or pursue another career path entirely, students gain the knowledge and practical experience they need to succeed in this field.
Professional certifications in dog grooming, veterinary helping, and cat training are available from ABC in addition to dog trainer training. Doggie daycare, pet fostering, pet nutrition, and training dogs from shelters are just a few of the seven short-term programs that offer specialized certificates of completion.
3) Pick a Professional Dog Trainer
Professional dog trainers who have earned their certification have honed their craft through much study and practice. Inquire about their training, education, and specializations, as well as their years of experience and certifications.
4) Always Request References.
When Choosing a Dog Trainer, professional dog trainers will be able to boast a list of happy clients as testimonials to back up their services. Inquire about the trainer’s punctuality, reliability, and professionalism while contacting their references. The trainer’s demeanor: how would references describe it? Or was he abrupt and rude? How kind and accommodating was he? Has the dog begun to trust the trainer? Was the training successful in changing their dog’s behavior?