The Benefits Of Professional Dog Training

There is nothing more exciting than bringing that new bundle of joy into your home for the first time. We’re not talking about a baby…we’re talking about your new puppy.

Getting a new pet takes a lot of preparation and time. They will need to learn about you, as you learn about them. Each pet has its personality, which you will come to enjoy and appreciate as time goes by. But puppies can get into quite a bit of trouble unless you have them trained, preferably at a young age.

If you think you can handle this on your own, you may want to think again!

Why Have Your Dog Professionally Trained?

While many people take their dog for training, so they will be obedient to your commands there are many other worthwhile reasons to consider training. Here are some top reasons according to the Winnipeg Humane Society.

• Training can help build up your dog’s confidence.  The training uses positive reinforcement. It enables the dog to make the decision and is then rewarded with treats, petting, and praise. The dog will appreciate new experiences as they gain confidence from their positive treatment.
• It creates a strong bond between the dog and the owner. Training helps dogs and pet parents learn about each other. As they learn together, they create a trusting bond built on respect. This is a bond that will just grow closer as you spend more time together.
• Training can reduce unwanted behaviors. No one is perfect and the same goes for your dog. They have to learn what behaviors are accepted and welcomed and which ones aren’t allowed. During training, you will learn how to best communicate with your dog, how to set boundaries, and learn accepted behavior. Training includes working with the dog both mentally and physically. It provides physical stimulation which helps the dog to gain positive attention and prevents poor behavior.
• A trained dog is a more social dog. During training, dogs learn boundaries and how to behave in social situations. A trained dog is used to human interaction, so they are better behaved in social settings.
• Training can increase safety for the dog. If your pet listens to your commands, it can prevent them from being involved in conflict with other animals, crossing the street, as well as keeping them from dangerous situations. 
• Training makes it easier for others to deal with your dog. Throughout your dog’s life, they will visit the vet, groomers, and others. Trained pets are used to working with humans, and do better in these situations that may cause anxiety for other pets.
• Training helps your dog connect with your voice. Don’t be fooled by a dog’s lack of vocabulary, they are excellent communicators, and their body language speaks volumes. Training really helps owners learn their dog’s communication systems, from responses to commands like waiting before they approach their dog food to the go-ahead order. There are many ways in which we communicate with our furry friends, and knowing the lingo goes a long way to a great relationship.

How to Find a Good Dog Trainer:

We can see that there are many good reasons to train your puppy or older dog, but how do you find a good trainer? Are they all the same?

According to the American Kennel Club, here are some tips to help you find the best trainer for your dog.

Methods and Philosophy:

Before you decide on the first dog trainer you meet, do your due diligence. Ask the trainer about their training methods and philosophy and make sure they are in line with your feelings. A good trainer uses positive reinforcement. This teaches them the good behaviors that get them rewarded, and poor, inappropriate actions.

You also need to communicate areas of concern, such as having accidents in the house and jumping on guests. A good trainer will explain how they deal with these issues and whether the dog will need special classes or if group classes will alleviate the issue. Some dogs learn better in a “dog class” environment, while others prefer one-on-one training.

Also, find out where the dog will be trained. Some trainers prefer to train in their school, others will train at the client’s home or outside. The cost is usually more for the trainer to travel to a private home or other area for training.

Education and Credentials:

Be sure to find out what credentials the potential dog trainer has. Some have strong educational backgrounds and have learned their craft through apprenticeships and experience. Some may have gone through programs and received the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers or The Association of Professional Dog Trainers. 

As you interview the prospective trainer, pay special attention to whether or not they understand your needs and learn their communication style and personality. You want to make sure that you have the right trainer for your dog and yourself. Most dog trainers are teaching dogs and their humans and have patient and encouraging demeanors. You may also ask to sit in or watch a class to make sure they are a good fit for your dog, and you!

More than Basic Techniques:

Many dog parents are just looking for basic techniques and a few tricks. But other dogs need more intensive training to relieve themselves of poor behavior and proper socializing. The trainer should observe the pet and how you interact with the pet and develop a teaching plan that includes all the issues the pet has as well as the basic tools.

Finding the Right Trainer:

Many organizations highlight good trainers, the AKC has a list of approved trainers and evaluators. The Association of Professional Dog Trainers also has a list of trainers and their specialties. Each city usually has many legitimate trainers such as Rob’s Dogs a go-to for dog training in Phoenix. Just go online and look for dog training in your city.

Training your dog will make your life happier, and you will be glad you took the time and effort to have your dog trained by a professional.