30 Essential Questions To Ask A Dog Trainer Before Hiring
Picture this: you bring home a new four-legged family member, eyes brimming with joy, tail wagging with excitement, and a heart full of love.
Your new dog quickly becomes an integral part of your life, bringing happiness and companionship to every moment.
But amidst all the unicorns and rainbows, you notice a few behaviors that need a little fine-tuning—like that adorable but persistent habit of chewing on your favorite shoes.
I’ve been there, right in your shoes (pun intended!).
Believe me, I’ve turned my fair share of adorable shoe chewers into well-mannered, happy, confident dogs.
The secret? Finding the best dog trainer for your precious furry charge.
And that means doing your due diligence and asking the right questions so you can make an informed decision about who you hire.
#1. What Kind Of Training And Certification Does The Trainer Have?
Understanding the trainer’s qualifications and certifications helps determine their level of knowledge and skills, as well as their commitment to ongoing professional development.
Look for trainers who have completed reputable training programs and certifications from recognized organizations such as:
- Academy for Dog Trainers
- Animal Training Academy
- Centre of Applied Pet Ethology
- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
- Companion Animal Sciences Institute
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
- Karen Pryor Academy
- Peaceable Paws
- Pet Professional Accreditation Board
- Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior
#2. Does The Trainer Belong To Any Professional Dog Training Associations?
Belonging to a professional organization can be a good sign that the trainer is committed to ethical and humane training practices.
Good options include:
- Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
- COAPE Association of Pet Dog Trainers and Behaviourists (CAPBT)
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
- Pet Dog Trainers of Europe (PDTE)
- Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
#3. Does The Trainer Follow A Code Of Ethics?
A reputable trainer should have a code of ethics that guides their behavior and ensures that they are treating dogs and their owners with respect and professionalism.
This includes the training methods and equipment they use.
#4. Does The Trainer Participate In Continuing Education?
Good trainers should be committed to ongoing professional development and staying up-to-date with the latest research and training methods.
Look for trainers who participate in continuing education, attend conferences and workshops, and use positive reinforcement techniques.
#5. Does The Trainer Specialize In Any Particular Type Of Training?
Some trainers specialize in basic manners training, while others may focus on specific issues such as separation anxiety or other problem behaviors.
Finding a trainer who specializes in your particular situation can be very helpful.
#6. How Long Has The Trainer Been Training Dogs?
Experience is an important factor when it comes to finding a good dog trainer.
Look for trainers who have been in the industry for a while and have experience working with different breeds and behavioral issues.
#7. Does The Trainer Have Experience Working With My Particular Breed Of Dog?
Some trainers may specialize in working with certain breeds, so it’s important to find a trainer who has experience working with your particular dog.
This can extend to rescue dogs, ex-racing Greyhounds, or puppies, to name just a few examples.
Breed specifics aside, each dog has his own unique traits and behaviors that the trainer should be able to assess accurately.
#8. Does The Trainer Have Experience Working With My Dog’s Specific Behavioral Issues?
If your dog has specific behavioral issues (e.g. excessive barking, inappropriate toileting, fearfulness, hyperactivity, resource guarding, separation anxiety, aggression), ask the trainer if they have experience in addressing those issues.
#9. How Does The Trainer Tailor Their Training Methods To An Individual Dog?
Dogs have different personalities, learning styles, and behavioral challenges.
A skilled trainer should be able to customize their approach and develop a training plan that addresses your dog’s specific needs and your particular situation, ensuring the most effective and positive learning experience.
They will also be able to provide guidance on how to prevent future behavior problems.
#10. What Is The Trainer’s Philosophy And Approach?
When choosing the right dog trainer, it’s important to understand their philosophy and approach to training.
Ask them about their training style and how they approach different training situations.
This will help you determine if their methods align with your own beliefs and goals for your dog’s behavior, and if they will be a good fit.
#11. What Training Methods Does The Trainer Use?
One of the most important questions dog owners should ask a dog trainer is what training techniques they use.
Training methods vary widely, and it’s crucial to ensure that the trainer employs positive reinforcement-based techniques.
Positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted behavior.
It also promotes a trusting and cooperative relationship with your dog, making training fun and effective for the long term.
Avoid trainers who rely on physical punishment or the use of aversive tools that work by causing pain and fear, such as shock collars, citronella collars, startle devices, choke chains, or prong collars.
These tools can be harmful to your dog and carry a multitude of risks.
Why Is Positive Reinforcement Training Essential For My Dog?
Positive reinforcement is a humane and effective approach, based on science, which rewards desirable behavior.
The result? Your dog is encouraged to repeat that same behavior.
You can then build on that success and gradually increase difficulty levels, as well as distance (e.g. for coming back when called) and duration (e.g. sitting and waiting when you open the front door until you give him the cue to go).
Positive reinforcement will help you create a stronger bond with your dog and foster trust and respect between the two of you.
Reward-based training (this includes clicker training) also creates a positive learning environment where your dog is set up for success and encouraged to try new behaviors.
This boosts confidence and helps dogs learn to think for themselves, as well as to make good decisions.
#12. How Does The Trainer Handle Unwanted Behavior?
A qualified trainer will know how to address behavioral issues or a lack of focus without resorting to physical or verbal punishment or the use of force.
They should also be expert at assessing a dog’s emotional state so they can select an appropriate training plan.
#13. What Is Your Approach If My Dog Does Something Wrong?
A good trainer will help you to understand why your dog got something wrong and how to address it.
They should be able to provide strategies for how to react in a situation and steps on how to prevent problems from happening again.
This could range from using positive reinforcement techniques, like providing treats or verbal praise when the dog does something right, to redirecting behavior in a positive way or managing stress.
At the same time, they will also help you to identify triggers that lead to unwanted behavior, so you can work on changing these things and improving the situation.
An experienced trainer should always have your dog’s best interests at heart and be ready to adapt and adjust on the fly.
#14. What Types Of Training Equipment And Tools Does The Trainer Use?
When selecting a dog trainer, it’s important to inquire about the types of training equipment and tools they use.
Some of the most common training equipment and tools include leashes, flat collars, harnesses, clickers, and treats.
If the trainer uses any of the aforementioned tools that work by causing pain and fear, like shock collars, citronella collars, anti-bark collars, startle devices, choke chains, or prong collars, run for the hills and don’t ever come back.
Trust me, your dog will thank you for it.
#15. How Does The Trainer Ensure The Dog’s Welfare And Safety During Training?
A responsible dog trainer should prioritize the dog’s welfare and safety during training.
This includes ensuring that the training environment is safe and free from hazards, as well as monitoring the dog’s behavior and physical well-being during training.
The dog’s age, physical condition, and any pre-existing health conditions should all be taken into consideration.
Some dogs, for example, may have stiff joints or have had a previous surgery that makes certain behaviors (like sitting) uncomfortable, or even painful.
#16. Does The Trainer Offer Private Or Group Classes?
Depending on your preferences and your dog’s needs, you may prefer one-on-one private training sessions or group classes.
Make sure the trainer offers the type of training that you are looking for.
Note too that some dogs may thrive in a group setting, while others will be completely overwhelmed and unable to focus or learn anything new.
#17. How Much Do Training Sessions Cost?
Understanding the cost of training sessions helps you assess if the services fit your budget.
Consider the value of the training and the experience of the trainer when evaluating the cost.
Find out if they offer any discounts or package deals for multiple sessions.
The cost and duration of training sessions can vary widely depending on the trainer and the type of training program or service.
Some trainers charge by the hour, while others offer package deals or monthly rates.
#18. How Long Do Training Sessions Last?
Knowing the duration of training sessions allows you to plan your schedule accordingly.
Longer sessions may offer more comprehensive training, but it’s essential to ensure that they suit your dog’s attention span and energy levels.
For example, if the dog gets tired, bored, or frustrated, or is having difficulties focusing or overcoming his fears during a training session, it’s essential that the trainer recognizes this, gives him a break, and waits till he’s ready to get started again.
A few good minutes of training is always far preferable to a long session where the dog is disinterested for whatever reason, or just going through the motions.
#19. Are There Any Additional Fees?
Some trainers may charge extra, for example, for travel or materials.
Sometimes trainers will only work within a certain perimeter and will charge more, the further they have to drive.
If they provide a training tool (like a harness) or an enrichment toy such as a KONG or LickiMat, then they may charge for those if it’s not included in the package.
#20. What Is The Cancellation Policy?
It’s important to ask about a trainer’s cancellation policy and if they have any requirements or minimums for training sessions.
#21. Where Will The Training Take Place?
Some trainers will come to your home.
This is often the best way as dogs tend to be more relaxed in their home environment.
However, some trainers have their own training facility or use a safe area outdoors for their training sessions.
#22. What Is The Trainer’s Availability?
Training is often time-sensitive so it’s important to know whether the trainer can accommodate your schedule.
Say you have a puppy that needs to be house-trained, or your dog has started barking all through the night, or you have a newly adopted rescue dog who is having trouble overcoming his fearfulness, or a dog who has suddenly started behaving aggressively.
You may prefer to get started as soon as possible, rather than wait until your first-choice trainer is available.
In many cases, it’s best for the dog too so the behavior doesn’t have a chance to become too ingrained.
#23. Does The Trainer Set Out Specific Training Goals?
Before beginning any training program, it is important to identify achievable training goals.
These goals should be specific, measurable, realistic, and achievable.
For example, if your dog has a problem with jumping on people, a specific goal might be to teach your dog to sit and stay when greeting people.
Your trainer should work with you to set goals that are appropriate for your dog’s skill level and behavior issues.
Clarifying your trainer’s training goals aligns your expectations with the outcomes of the training program.
It helps ensure that their objectives align with your desired results.
#24. How Long Will It Take To Achieve These Goals?
While training progress varies from dog to dog, having an estimated timeframe gives you a realistic expectation of the training process and helps you plan for any time-sensitive goals.
It is important to have a clear understanding of what you can expect from the training.
When discussing expected outcomes with a trainer, ask about the amount of time it will take to see results and what kind of behavior problems can be addressed.
#25. Does The Trainer Offer A Guarantee On Their Services?
A good trainer will be honest about what can be achieved and what cannot.
Be wary of trainers who promise quick fixes or guarantee results, as training a dog takes time and patience, as well as knowledge and skill.
#26. What Kind Of Post-Training Support Does The Trainer Offer?
A good dog trainer should provide follow-up support to help you and your dog maintain the training progress.
It’s also a good sign that the trainer is genuinely invested in helping your pet succeed!
Follow-up sessions or check-ins are a great way to ensure that your pet is still on track with his training goals and that any issues are addressed in a timely manner.
They could include phone or email consultations, check-ins, or additional training sessions as needed.
#27. How Does The Trainer Handle Problem Behaviors That Arise After Training?
Ideally, your trainer should be available to help you address any new or unwanted behavior that arises after training.
Depending on what it is and how much more training is needed, you may need to be prepared for additional charges.
#28. What Kind Of Home Training Resources Does The Trainer Provide?
A good dog trainer should provide you with resources and tools to continue training your dog at home.
Kind of like homework.
It could include written instructions, videos, or online resources.
#29. Can The Trainer Provide References From Previous Clients?
Requesting references allows you to hear about other clients’ experiences and success stories.
Positive testimonials and references indicate a satisfied client base and increase your confidence in the trainer’s abilities.
A reputable trainer should be more than happy to provide references.
It’s also a good idea to check online for reviews of the trainer before hiring them as this will give you an indication of their level of professionalism and success.
#30. Does The Trainer Offer Any Additional Services?
Some trainers may offer extra services, such as boarding, puppy parties, socialization sessions, or doggy daycare.
If not, they should be able to recommend someone else who can, so you can ensure your dog gets the best care at all times from professionals you can trust.
Why It’s Important To Hire The Right Trainer
Unfortunately, the dog training industry is unregulated.
This means that anyone can set themselves up as a dog trainer, regardless of education or qualifications.
Or lack of them.
By asking the right questions, you can ensure that you’re hiring a qualified and experienced dog trainer who is best suited to help your pup reach their training goals.
If you can, try to observe the trainer in action and see how they interact with their own dog, other dogs, or new clients.
Red flags to watch out for include the use of physical punishment and/or aversive training devices (like prong collars, choke chains, or shock collars), or a general lack of experience in dealing with behavioral issues.
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NEED A DOG TRAINER OR BEHAVIOR EXPERT? If you need more help dealing with a training or behavior issue, please find professional help from a force-free dog trainer who can consult with you either in person or remotely. GOOD PLACES TO START ARE: - COAPE Association of Pet Behaviourists and Trainers - Pet Dog Trainers of Europe - International Companion Animal Network - Institute of Modern Dog Trainers - Pet Professional Guild All dog owners deserve to have successful relationships with their canine companions!
