No one says it better than Adrienne LeHuquet, CPDT-KA of Georgetown’s A Refined Canine (www.arefinedcanine.com) stating, “Choosing to train your dog is one of the smartest decisions and investments you can make as a dog owner. A well-mannered dog is a pleasure to have in the home or while traveling. He’s a best friend, a loyal companion, a running buddy, and a great foot warmer on a cold night! Training instills confidence, provides mental stimulation, and strengthens the human-animal bond. However, a poorly behaved dog can be a nightmare causing stress and anxiety in your life. You owe it to your pack to invest in laying a solid foundation in your relationship through training.”
Unfortunate Fact
There are 83 million dogs in this country and 75% (62 million) have never received professional training. Especially since the inception of COVID, dogs are now part of our home life more than ever. Every dog deserves a good canine education. Pet owners surrender thousands of dogs due to preventable behavioral issue. The right training could prevent unnecessary surrender and possible euthanization. Investing the time now will ensure lifelong, positive memories, and it could also save your pet’s life.
Who is Being Trained?
Professional and caring trainers want to help you realize your relationship goals. Let’s be honest though–you are not just training your pet; you are also training your family to be pack leaders. Consistency in the family unit is key to success, your pet’s health, safety and well-being.
5 key steps to help head your pack in the right direction
Step One – Define Your Goal
First, you must define your training goal. Do you want to train your dog for overall obedience such as leash training, social interaction, or house-breaking? Or are you seeking to train for certifications such as Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog, Service Dog, or an Emotional Support Canine? Whichever path you choose, a professional trainer can help you reach your training goals.
Step Two – Dedicate Time and Resources
Training takes time, patience, and consistency. Commit to just ten minutes a day for you and your pup to train together and schedule follow up visits with your trainer as needed. Be sure to plan for unexpected circumstances such as additional training to correct unwanted behaviors.
Step Three – Start Your Search for a Dog Trainer
Determine if the trainer is the right fit for you and your fur baby. Contact them initially by phone. If that conversation goes well, follow it up with a meet and greet including your pup.
Things to Consider When Deciding on A Professional Trainer
- Are they certified and accredited such as an Advanced Master Dog Trainer and Educator, Canine Good Citizen, or S.T.A.R Puppy Evaluator?
- Do they have affiliations or memberships with organizations such as the American Kennel Club, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, or The International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants?
- Do they specialize in all levels of dog obedience including:
- Basic (verbal and nonverbal cues, body language, door dashing, doorbell barking, jumping, etc.)Advanced (off leash, frisbee, trick training, search and rescue, agility, etc.)Behavioral Modification (aggression, leash reactivity, biting, separation anxiety, dealing with fearful or poorly socialized dogs, etc.)
- Do they teach you how to master the art of dog-human communication?
- Off-site training course (i.e., boarding period of two to four-weeks):
- How much training time does the trainer spend with your pup daily?
- When not in training, where does the trainer house your pup?
- Will the trainer socialize your pup with other dogs?
- Are there attendants on staff throughout the night in the event of emergencies?
- Do they offer in-home training?
- Do they test dogs for and offer such certifications as Therapy Dog, Service Dog, Emotional Support, or Canine Good Citizen and then subsequently register the dogs?
- Is the trainer bonded and insured?
- What method of training do they use? Vets agree that positive reinforcement training is the most effective method. This training method focuses on rewarding your pet for good behavior, rather than punishing bad behavior.
- Tip: Consistency is essential in training a well-behaved dog. Be clear and consistent in the rules you want your dog to follow and make sure everyone in the home follows those same rules. Give your fur baby a reward each time s/he completes a desired task and don’t forget to treat your family pack as well!
Step Four – Prepare Your Dog for Training
- Gather necessary documents (e.g., vaccination records, training history, medical information regarding any allergies, seizures).
- Bring the right collar and leash as recommended by the trainer.
- Address and feeding and potty needs.
- Pack premium treats and favorite toys.
- Bring a portable bowl and plenty of water.
Step Five – Go Time!
What are you waiting for? It’s Go Time for a life-long bond of unconditional love and friendship with your dog that is built on mutual respect and trust through positive training. Get started on a happier, healthier life with your dog today. Love your fur baby, love his/her behavior, and let the adventure begin here!
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