Finding
the Right Trainer
I
have been asked this question many times over the past
few years. The recent rise in TV based dog training
shows has spurred many discussions and even a few heated
arguments on the subject.
The
main thing when beginning your search for the right
trainer is to remember that every dog is different, and
every situation is different. Subscribing to one line of
training, one that doesn’t allow for this, is not only
dangerous it's irresponsible!
A
good trainer is one who continually takes in all of the
information he or she can from as many sources as
possible. Doing this gives the trainer a wider variety
of knowledge and more possible options to consider when
he/she is presented with a given behavior issue or
situation. Having a open mind when it comes to any and
all training methods will allow the trainer to determine
which method or combination of methods will be the best
for you and your dog.
No
matter which trainer you choose, you must take the time
to investigate the method or combination of methods that
trainer might choose to employee when training your dog.
You must agree with those methods and if you have any
questions, the trainer should be more than happy to take
the time to answer your questions and satisfy your
concerns. You must always remember to do only what is
best for your dog. In the end, if your dog doesn’t
trust or respect you and your trainer, your dog will
never respond well to the training.
Lastly, when choosing a trainer make sure he/she
uses methods that support physical health and mental
balance in your dog. Trainers who prefer to use
shortcuts that can physically or mentally harm your dog
should never be allowed access to your beloved family
member. |
