Choosing a trainer

Please please do your research when choosing a dog trainer for you and your family. Don't necessarily go with the first one you come across. Observe classes, ask around in the community and ask THEM questions about their methods, experiences, referrals etc. The training you receive for your dog is hopefully for a lifetime and each dog will respond differently to different methods. Don't choose the wrong trainer and wrong method - it could squash your dog's confidence and break your bond with him/her. 


A person does not need to be certified to be a "dog trainer" and there are a few out there who are not certified but easily could be. However, certification through the right organization, requires the trainer to keep up with continuing education, prove his/her credentials, and keep a positive reputation in society. You wouldn't send your children to a teacher who didn't have decent credentials and a good reputation so why wouldn't you put the same thought into who trains you to teach your dog. Go with your gut and research your options. 
Your dog deserves it.


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