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How to find a dog trainer.
All dog trainers are not the same.
Dog training clubs fall into 2 camps. Those that operate to make a profit and those that do not. Don't be fooled into thinking that high prices mean better quality training. Some clubs that operate on a not-for-profit basis often have instructors with more experience that those that are operating for profit.
Individual dog trainers who may or may not be associated with a club, usually train dogs as their main source of income. Training may be general domestic obedience, competitive obedience or behavioural (for problem dogs). Training is usually on a one-to-one basis and fees can vary from £20 to £100 a session.I would be happy to pay a higher fee for a good dog trainer, however, the level of the fee is no indication of quality.
Accreditation. There is no one body that regulates dog trainers. You may find dog trainers that advertise that they are APDT accredited (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) or BIPDT (British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers) or they may have an academic qualification such as a degree in canine psychology. None of these are a guarantee of quality or knowledge - although they demonstrate a level of competence. Indeed there are many very experienced, excellent dog trainers who do not have any accreditations or qualfications at all. Anyone can set themselves up as a dog trainer. I have heard of trainers who have lots of qualifications but no hands-on experience and that cannot be good.
The best way to find a good dog trainer is by word of mouth. Your vets will have lots of advertisements posted on their notice board. The Kennel Club will give you a list of dog training organisations (usually KC registered clubs that are run on a not-for-profit basis).
If at all possible you need to go and see the club/trainer in action. You need to like the trainer and you need to be able to communicate with him/her. If you like what you see you can take it further, if you don't, just walk away. I would personally be looking for a trainer that would listen to me and vary the training to my needs. I would want the training to be flexible and above all, be kind. I would not go to a club where every dog was wearing a check chain nor one where coercive methods were the norm.
If you are considering a one-to-one trainer I would want an indepth conversation on the telephone to convince myself that this person had good knowledge and experience and would use kind methods. Anyone who cuts you dead and will not talk to you before booking a session, should be avoided at all costs.
Remember, you are responsible for your dog's welfare. Finding a good dog trainer may take time and you may have to travel some distance. But is definitely worth spending the time and not making a mistake.
Other training articles:
[Clicker Training] [Pulling on the lead] [Toilet / house Training] [Jumping Up] [Children & dogs]
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