First and foremost don’t go with the first guy you talk with as a lot of so-called trainers are more salesmen than trainers. Look for referrals from friends and acquaintances. You can also ask your local vet who they recommend and why. Why being the key word. Is it because they drop their cards off here or do you have real testimonials from satisfied clients.

If your so-called trainer tries to make you feel guilty or talks down to you, hang up. If your trainer yells at you or your dog along with being physical in inappropriate situations, question the behavior and what it has to do with training.

Some trainers come out and train your dog in one place, at your house. That’s only good for where the dog is being trained. Does the trainer show you what to do or just the dog? To learn all you can you most likely want someone who is a people person and a dog/animal person. Some can only work with the dog and not the owner. Will that work for you? Experience is also a test of time look closely.

Don’t just select for price alone or you will likely get what you pay for. Compare what is taught and how. I don’t believe in just training the dog, it never works. The problem is always the owner in 99% of the time. Does your trainer train all breeds and if not why? Reality is that dogs are dogs and differ only slightly through breeds. I believe a person that is truly qualified can train any sport or solve any behavior, including aggression. I’m just picky though! A trainer must be a hands on trainer also, if they can’t touch your dog how can they be qualified to train it? Don’t listen to advice over the phone I know of some trainers that would suggest you put your dog down (Euthanasia) without seeing it, only because of certain behavior. Now that really upsets me because I don’t know who might have listened.

Don’t believe you can train successfully with hugs and kisses only. Dogs don’t respond that way, especially consistently. It’s a nice thought but won’t resolve things for most dogs. Harsh treatment in any form is not necessary. If you an owner see something being done to your dog that you don’t understand or don’t like you are bound by decency to say something.

I believe in training through the understanding of each individual dog through psychology and observation of behavior in different surroundings. Directing or redirecting using cues, verbal cues, giving direction thus exhibiting leadership!

Written by; Steve Estrada 11.2003 for Gone to the Dogs