Complete K9 Training
Serving all of
Southern California
Serving all of
Southern California
714.254.0656
info@CK9training.com | 714.254.0656
HOW TO CHOOSE A DOG TRAINER
Complete K9 Training
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What Makes CK9 Different? || How to Choose a Trainer || Resources & Links
What Makes CK9 Different? || How to Choose a Trainer || Resources & Links
When looking for a dog trainer, you want to be sure that you find a qualified and responsible individual that will work with your
personal needs. There are many different kinds of dog trainers available. How do you know if you found the right one? Here is
a list of things to look for. Some of these tips have been adapted from the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) website. Also
included are criteria that we have set for our own standards.
- Be leery of trainers that offer guarantees! Dogs are living creatures and all are unique. No one can promise any specific turnout. Success rates are important, but avoid putting your dog in a position where results are more important than needs.
- There are many good trainers out there. Find one that suits your needs and likes. Like the person you will be working with!
- Look around. Don't necessarily go with the first trainer you speak with. For some trainers it's just a business and they'll make anything sound good for a sale. Speak to a few companies to find one that makes you feel comfortable.
- Don't make a decision based on price only. Examine the trainer's qualifications, facilities, personality and techniques. Focus on finding a quality trainer, not haggling over fees. The bargain trainer usually isn't one you want to go with. The phrase "you get what you pay for" is very true in the dog training field!
- As in any other field, it's the quality of one's work that counts, not how long they've been doing it. Experience is important, but look closely into a trainer's background, listen to what they're offering, and speak with past clients.
- It's best to meet with the trainer before signing up. Ask to see their personal dog and demonstration of the training. How does their dog respond? Is it in a way you would like your dog to respond?
- Never pay to meet with a trainer. Why pay to speak with someone you may decide you don't want to work with? A trainer should be happy to discuss their work with you for free. The only exception would be if you request the trainer to come out to your home to meet you. It's acceptable to pay a fee for travel time and expenses.
A skilled and professional trainer should...
- Use humane training methods which are not harmful to the dog and/or handler.
- Allow and encourage you to observe a demonstration prior to making the decision to enroll.
- Welcome and encourage all family members and others who interact with the dog to attend lessons.
- Provide a clear explanation of techniques and steps in training.
- Demonstrate the behavior(s) that you will teach or work on with their dog.
- Provide clear instructions
and written handouts on how to teach and work with the
behavior(s). Give you ample time with a trainer to practice technique and steps in training. Provide assistance for proper implementation of techniques.Encourage dialogue and be courteous to both canine and human clients alike. Stay informed about innovations in dog training and behavior tools and techniques. Take care to protect your dog's health in a group setting (e.g. vaccination requirements). Be versatile. There are many "right" training techniques. A trainer should be willing to try different methods and work with what you and your dog need.
You want to be comfortable with the training tools and methods used by the instructor. Question the trainer's method so you fully understand. - 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.
Request references from past clients. - "Because of variables in dog breeding and temperament and owner commitment and experience, a trainer cannot and should not guarantee the results of his/her training. However, an instructor can and should be willing to ensure client satisfaction with his/her professional service." APDT
Training for your dog...and YOU!