There is this incredible pressure on dog owners when it
comes to selecting an appropriate training method, or trainer, for their newest
furry family member. No one wants to
live under the stigma of having a “Bad Dog” or being that owner in the park who
everyone avoids because, let’s face it – Rover just isn't properly socialized –
and he doesn't quite come when called either....
In the age of Cesar Milan’s “The Dog Whisperer” or the new CBS Prime-time series “Dogs in the
City” where trainers with magical dog-telepathy abilities are “curing” dogs and
training people, how in the world is the common-Joe of dog owners supposed to
get their pups trained without making it onto the nearest television network?
The answer? Training.
The Dogington Post has recently posted an incredible
resource in terms of the questions you should be asking yourself and your
potential new trainer while on the hunt for the perfect mesh of leadership,
discipline, dominance, affection and fun....
When selecting a professional dog trainer, pet parents should
consider the following questions:
1:
What is their level of experience, where did they learn how to train dogs, and
what is their success rate with your specific breed of dog? A professional dog
trainer is like many occupations—just because they claim to be a “professional”
does not mean they know what they are doing. Get references from the trainer
and visit those who have had their dog trained by this individual.
2:
ask what training methods they use. There are two basic training methods used
to train a dog. One is the “positive reinforcement” method where the dog
receives plenty of praise and encouragement for doing as instructed. The second
method is a harsher method using shock collars as well as other less than
desirable methods (in my humble opinion). Avoid a trainer who uses the second
method
3:
The cost. How much are you willing to spend on a professional dog trainer? While the better trainers can be more costly,
please keep in mind that the size of the price tag does not always equal the
value you are receiving.
4: There is also the
debate between private lessons and large group lessons (offered by most pet
supply stores). Keep in mind that large
groups provide more distractions and can make a training session ineffective. On the flip side, practicing training in
these environments can also help you learn how to handle your pup in such
distractions. Ask yourself before you
start – which would you prefer?
Keep in mind that there is no GUARANTEED method for training
ALL dogs – no magical trainer or training method that will produce the perfect
house dog with little to no effort on the part of the pet-parent. Training takes work and repetition. It takes dedication and a great deal of
patience. There will be successes that
you can celebrate, but you will also need to prepare yourself for the unavoidable
set-backs. But if you and your
four-legged furry friend can both buckle down and commit to a training regimen,
the peace of mind and happiness you will find at the end of your training
journey will be priceless
Keep you Tails Wagging
Bear’s P4ws
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