Browse Local Pet Trainers
How to pick a good Local Pet Trainer
Obedience training is one of the best things you can do for your pet
and yourself. Obedience training doesn't solve all behavior problems,
but it is the foundation for solving just about any problem. Training
opens up a line of communication between you and your animal.
Effective communication is necessary to instruct your dog about what
you want her to do. You can teach her anything from 'stay' (don't bolt
out the door) to 'sit' (don't jump up on the visitors) to 'off' (don't
chew the furniture).
The key to preventing or treating behavior problems is learning to
teach your pet to redirect his natural behavior to outlets that are
acceptable in the domestic setting.
If you don't have the time to do the training yourself you can look
into professional trainers or a behavior specialist.
What to look for in a Trainer
An excellent reputation. Shop around and get recommendations from your
vet, the ASPCA, the city's other humane societies, other reputable
trainers, or your breeder/breed club.
Widespread experience. Inquire about his or her training background,
years of experience, and areas of expertise. You deserve to have your
questions answered, so don't be timid about asking them. (Also, see
consumer warning at the bottom of this article.)
Humane training methodology and gentle, effective handling skills.
Reputable trainers are concerned about their dogs' welfare. They also
know that harsh or abusive handling methods are not only unnecessary,
but are often counter-productive as well.
A genuine love of and devotion to dogs. When you find a trainer with
this important quality you'll know it. The joy of living and working
with dogs makes this person shine.
Extensive behavioral knowledge. Dedicated trainers keep themselves
up-to-date by attending dog training and animal behavior courses,
conferences, seminars and workshops whenever possible.
Good teaching and communication skills. Trainers who have this gift
make the learning process quicker, easier and more enjoyable for their
students.
A sense of humor. Training can and should be fun for both dogs and
owners. A positive attitude and a little laughter goes a long way.
Affiliations with reputable associations, organizations and training
clubs. While this is not mandatory, it's certainly a plus.
Ethics before profit. Is monetary profit his or her primary motive for
training dogs? Is everything this trainer does geared towards making
money? While financial success is great, ethics must come first.
Types of training
Housetraining - specific advice for puppies.
Socialization - advice on exposure to people, other dogs, etc.
Chewing & Biting - specific advice for puppies.
Clicker Training - an animal training technique (& for some a
philosophy) with some basis in scientific learning theory.
Assistance Dogs - helping folks with disabilities.
Carting & Weight Pulling - K9 body building.
Hunting - AKC, birds, retrievers, versatile dogs, etc.
Sledding, Mushing, Skijoring, etc. - out into the snow.
Schutzhund (literally "protection dog") is a sport composed of three
parts - tracking, obedience and protection work.
Ring Sport is the working dog sport which combines obedience, agility
and protection.
