Training is an important part of a dog-human relationship. Learn why to choose a professional trainer, and how to find a good one.
It can be a struggle to make the time, and frustrating when the results seem slow to come, but ultimately, training a dog is very rewarding and, experts say, essential. According to the Humane Society of the United States website, "Whether you are intentionally teaching him or not, your canine friend is always learning—and this is true not just for puppies but also for older, adult dogs. If you do not teach your pet your rules, he will invent his own."
While owners can find online how-tos, books with training techniques, or inexpensive group obedience classes at a local pet store, many seek out a professional dog trainer. "Much like with fitness instructors, some people prefer to do it on their own, and some like a little friendly kick in the behind to help them stay motivated (in training their dog)," says Sasha Alexander, owner of Paw Prints Pet Services, LLC, in Tucson, AZ. Although it isn't necessary, working with a professional can be advantageous to both an inexperienced owner and an owner who has traditionally trained his pet on his own.
But, there are times when basic obedience training isn't enough and owners need expert advice. For severe behavior problems, such as aggression, shyness, and containment issues like fence jumping, "it's a very good idea to get a professional involved EARLY, and preferably someone who specializes in behavioral training," Sasha Alexander says.
Finding a Trainer
If possible, get a recommendation. Ask a veterinarian, dog sitter, or other pet care professional. Ask friends, or someone with a well-trained dog. If a recommendation isn't possible, consult the yellow pages or organizations like the Humane Society or Associations of Professional Dog Trainers.
Involvement or association with a professional organization does not guarantee a quality trainer, however, so it's important to interview prospective trainers and learn as much as possible about their methods, expertise, and experience. Agility and guard dog training, for example, are specializations and not all do these types of training. Same with behavioral issues--some professionals will be excellent obedience trainers, but may not have the background to help with severe behavioral problems.
Ultimately, owners should feel comfortable with the trainer as he or she will be an active part of their lives for several weeks, or even several months.
What to Avoid
Unfortunately, there are those who use or promote harmful training methods, which can cause severe trauma to a dog and even create fear-based agression.
Training should never involve shaking, hitting, yelling, or hanging the dog. A good trainer will never perform or suggest an alpha-roll, or any other method that hurts the dog or puts the dog and owner in dangerous situations. "You have the absolute right to stop any trainer or other animal care professional who, in your opinion, is causing your dog undue harm or distress," states the Association of Professional Dog Trainers on their website.
