Having a well-trained dog can make life much more enjoyable for both you and your pet. A dog that understands basic commands and behaves properly is a pleasure to take on walks, have around company, and welcome into your home. Finding the right dog trainer to help your dog learn good manners and obedience is key. Here are some top tips for locating a qualified and reputable local dog trainer in your area:
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Ask Your Veterinarian for Recommendations
Your veterinarian likely works with many local dog owners and has insider knowledge about the best dog trainers nearby. At your dog's next check-up or vaccine appointment, ask your vet if they have any trusted trainers they refer clients to regularly. Vets want what's best for pets, so they'll likely point you towards trainers with solid reputations for teaching dogs effectively without using punitive methods.
Check Reviews Online
Once you have a few potential trainers in mind, read online reviews to gain insight from other pet owners who have used their services. Google, Yelp and Facebook all contain helpful reviews where people describe their experiences working with local dog trainers. Look for trainers who have overwhelmingly positive reviews praising their knowledge, patience and training techniques. Be wary of trainers with many critical reviews claiming the methods were harsh or ineffective.
Observe a Training Session
Most dog trainers will allow new clients to sit in and quietly observe a group or private session so you can see the process firsthand. Take advantage of this opportunity to watch the trainer interacting with dogs and owners. An excellent trainer will demonstrate deep expertise about dog behavior and psychology, use positive reinforcement methods, listen well to clients, have well-behaved demonstration dogs, and explain concepts clearly. Also observe the dogs - do they seem happy, eager to work and bonded with the trainer?
Ask About Certifications
There are certain credentials to look for that indicate a dog trainer has extensive, science-based knowledge and experience. Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT) have passed a standardized test administered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Trainers certified through the Animal Behavior College (ABC) have completed over 800 hours of study in dog psychology, training methods, canine health and more. Other respected certifications to seek out include AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluators and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partners.
Inquire About Customized Plans
A great dog trainer will design a customized training plan based on your dog's unique needs and goals. For example, a trainer working with a rescue dog that is fearful of strangers will use different techniques than one teaching a puppy basic manners skills. Ask potential trainers about their evaluation process and how they tailor programs to each dog's temperament, behavioral issues and strengths. The trainer should spend time getting to know your dog before making training recommendations.
Ask About Follow-Up Support
The initial sessions with a trainer provide the building blocks, but ongoing practice at home is key for dogs to master skills. Many trainers offer follow-up support to reinforce concepts. This may include phone or email check-ins, refresher private lessons and group classes where advanced skills are honed. Trainers invested in their clients' long-term success will be happy to detail how they help owners through the full process beyond just the initial consultations.
Consider Group Classes
While private lessons are ideal for addressing specific problem behaviors, group classes can be an excellent training option for many pets. They allow for socialization with other dogs which helps many dogs remain comfortable in a variety of settings. Group classes are often very cost-effective. Trainers usually focus on basic skills like loose leash walking, sit-stay, down, come when called and polite greetings. Make sure the class size is small enough for individualized attention.
Ask About Pricing
Dog training costs can vary widely based on the trainer's experience level, where sessions take place and the length/type of program. On average expect to pay $30-120 per hour-long private lesson with a professional local trainer. Group classes tend to range from $100-300 for a multi-week package. Make sure you understand all fees and policies up front so you aren't surprised by additional charges. Some trainers require packages of multiple lessons at once while others allow you to purchase just one session at a time.
Consider a Board and Train Program
If your schedule makes it difficult to attend training sessions, or your dog needs intensive behavioral intervention, many trainers offer board and train programs. Your dog lives temporarily with the trainer full-time (usually 2-4 weeks) while undergoing customized training. While pricier, this can yield faster results by immersing your dog in 24/7 supervised training while you are at work or traveling. Reputable programs maintain open communication with owners throughout the process.
Meet the Trainer in Person
Never hire a dog trainer without an in-person meeting, whether at their facility, your home or a public place like a park. You want to get a sense of their personality, training philosophies and interaction style with your dog. A great trainer will ask you plenty of questions, watch your dog closely and explain their approach in a way that makes you feel comfortable and optimistic. Go with your gut - if something feels off during your initial consultations, keep looking.
Check References Thoroughly
Ask any potential trainer for multiple references from recent clients and follow up on them. When you call or email the references, ask how their dogs responded to the training, if they'd recommend the trainer, and if their dogs still retain what they learned. Glowing references from real clients can give you confidence you've found the right match. But be sure to do your homework before making a commitment.
Finding the ideal trainer to work with you and your dog takes some diligence and research up front. But the investment of time and money pays off exponentially when you end up with an expert trainer who understands your pet's needs and helps bring out their best behavior. Be picky in your selection process - you want to find the trainer who is just the right fit for both you and your furry friend. The result will be a happier home and more rewarding relationship with your beloved dog.