Yes, a professional, you do not count. As much as we wish dogs came pre-programmed, they need positive experiences, guidance, support, boundaries,and balance to be the best they can be. This is where a professional trainer gets you and your companion’s foundation to a happy, healthy, and strong relationship. Professional dog trainers have experience with various breeds,mixes, ages, training styles, and yes even owners. There are many trainers out there, it is finding the right one for you, your family, and your companion. When
researching places to begin your training journey there are few things to keep in mind. What do you look for in a trainer? What are your goals? What type of training do you want to pursue? Do you have a specific focal point you want to achieve? What do you want your dog to learn? How do you want your dog to learn? How committed are you or how much time are you looking to commit to training? Ok, now that you have answered these questions, you can narrow down your
options. It is important that not only you like your trainer, but your companion likes them as well. When doing a consult with the trainer you are interviewing them just as much as they are interviewing you. Observe how they interact with your companion, I mean your companion is your furbaby. You will be spending a lot of time with them and well, they will be teaching you, guiding you, and be there for you. Every trainer will have their own style, core values, specialties and beliefs, so ask away! Unfortunately there are many “trainers” and trainers in any and every area. We know your next question, how do I know the difference. A very good question!
Here are 8 tips and questions that should be essential to your search:
What methods do they use? Purely Positive, Positive First, Balanced, Pack Alpha, Old School
Credentials? Certifications? Affiliations? Continuing education?
Tour of facility- is it clean, spacious, feels good to be in, requirements of core vaccines?
Attend a class to observe and talk with current clients
Reviews aren’t everything- schedule a consult to meet the trainers.
Do your research, check out their videos, social, photos
Ask for a drop-in, participate in a class, get a feel for the atmosphere of a class.
Sign up and enroll because it feels right
Many owners, when they find that trainer, they begin to see training not as a necessity, but a time to bond and become part of a family; a community of dog owners. It’s time, get out there and find the soul trainer for you and your companion!
Check back next week as we discuss pay scales during your training and knowing your pay scale.