Things You'll Need:
- pen and paper
- internet
- phone
- phone book
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Step 1
Research trainers and training methods online. Learn about what types of training there are and decide which type of training you are comfortable with. No matter what setting the training takes place in, be it a group class or a board and train situation, you will have to practice the training method on your dog at some point. If you are not comfortable with the method, you will not do it, it will not work, and you will have wasted your money.
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Step 2
Ask your trainer where he learned to train dogs. How long has he been training dogs? Bear in mind, that a new trainer is not necessarily a bad thing, especially if they have just gotten certification. A seasoned trainer may not always be best either, especially if they work alone and have not updated their education recently. Bad habits and poor technique can become ingrained if repeated over many years.
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Step 3
Find out if your trainer has any certifications or professional affiliations. Again, having or not having these types of credentials should not be the sole reason to select a trainer. Anyone can pass a written test if they study. But, if your trainer thought enough of his reputation to spend the time and money to get a credential, this will tell you that he is interested in setting some sort of standards. The most common affiliations are Association of Pet Dog Trainers membership, Certified Pet Dog Trainer from CCPDT, National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors, and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.
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Step 4
Ask your trainer for references. An endorsement from two clients and at least one other dog trainer will tell you that your trainer is established, and is a known quantity in his profession.
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Step 5
If your trainer teaches group classes, ask if you may come by without your dog and observe a class. Otherwise, ask if there is any way you can observe her teaching another client dog.
