Finding a Good Dog Training Professional
Posted on 07. Oct, 2017 by Dog Trainer in Dog Training
Finding a Good Dog Training Professional
Many people today advertise themselves as professional dog trainers; so many, in fact, that it can be hard to determine which of these trainers really is a professional who excels at what he or she does. Below are some things to consider when trying to find someone knowledgeable to help train your dog.
1. Does this trainer have a good reputation? Word of mouth is a great way to find out if a trainer is of top quality. Your vet, other dog owners, and kennel clubs will most likely have suggestions for you to investigate.
2. How experienced is this trainer? Don’t be afraid to ask this person how long he or she has been training dogs and what type of training background he or she has.
3. Do you sense a real passion for dogs as well as a genuine love for them from this person?
4. How current is this trainer’s knowledge? The best of the best will always be continuing their education by attending seminars, workshops, conferences and animal behavior classes.
5. How good are this trainer’s abilities regarding dog handling and methods? Your potential trainer’s first concern should be the safety and comfort of the dogs in his or her care.
6. Does the trainer belong to any quality organizations or associations?
While You are Waiting for Your Trainer: Training your dog should not be drudgery or a chore. It’s supposed to be fun for both of you! If you are feeling out of sorts or negative about it, it’s best not to start yet.
However, if you are ready and willing, remember always to praise and reward your dog when he responds correctly and immediately to your commands. Rewards vary, but they must be something that will motivate your dog: something he likes well enough to follow your commands for. Many people use small bits of food (treats) to encourage their dogs, but that is certainly not the only type of reward available. Praising your dog or offering him a toy are also rewards that might work for your dog.
While training is fun, it is also work for both of you, so consider training for several short periods rather than trying to keep your dog’s attention over a long session. It is important to remember that good training never involves negativity or adverse responses from you. Do not yell at your dog, hit him, use choke chains, or jerk on his collar. And, of course, it is definitely not ever acceptable to use any form of electric shock as a training tool. Training goes most smoothly when the trainer focuses on positive experiences and uses rewards as enticements for correct behavior. Training should be fun and pleasant for both of you! H
Head collars are the latest way to help train your dog, and when used correctly, can be very effective in helping your dog learn not to pull on the lead. No one likes to feel like they are being walked by their dog, and that is what it looks like when your dog runs down the street with you waving like a flag on the other end of the leash.
A head collar can be a wonderful solution to this problem, and many people feel that it has more positive aspects than a traditional training collar. For example, it is more obvious how to use a head collar to control your dog as opposed to traditional training collars. Head collars are not hard to use, but must be carefully introduced to your dog. The head collar also needs to fit correctly or it won’t work well for either one of you. When you find yourself in a tough situation with your dog, a head collar can make a difference and allow you to keep your dog under control, allowing you greater peace of mind when you are out and about with your canine companion.
Good luck!
Justin Robins has been writing for many years. Justin Robins currently runs the Dog Training Guide website. If you are interested in learning how to train your dog, then consider checking out his website.
