A GOOD DOG TRAINER
1. Look for trainers who use positive reinforcement for good behavior rather than punishment for unacceptable behavior.
2. Ask for training references from customers and veterinarians who are familiar with the trainer's reputation.
3. Ask the trainer to tell you in advance exactly what he/she plans to do before working with your dog.
4. Observe an obedience class without your pet. Are the animals and
people having a good time? Talk with participants after class. If
someone won't let you sit in on a class, don't enroll.
5. If a trainer is doing something to your dog that you don't feel comfortable about, don't be afraid to ask the trainer to stop. Harsh, physical training techniques are not only unnecessary, but lessen the integrity of your relationship and can lead to fear and aggression.
6. If a trainer tells you to do something to your dog that doesn't seem right, don't be intimidated into
doing what you believe is not in your dog's best interest.
7.
Avoid trainers who offer guarantees. That trainer is either
ignoring or does not understand the complexity of animal
behavior.
8. Food is an acceptable positive reinforcement
training tool and is only part of a long list of important
rewards. A good trainer will not object to using food rewards for most behaviors. If there is a particular reason it should not be used, it should be explained to you.
9. Avoid trainers who won't allow you to use any training collar other than
a choke chain. Head collars, Martingales and SENSE-ation Harnesses www.Softouchconcepts.com are
humane alternatives to choke chains and pinch collars.