Choosing a Good Dog Trainer

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What do I look for in a group class?

Ask to attend a session before enrolling. Watch for the following:

• Is class size controlled to ensure personal attention?
• Are puppy, adolescent, and adult dogs kept in separate classes?
• Are there different training stages (i.e. puppy, beginner, intermediate, and advanced)?
• Are the equipment and methods designed to ensure positive and humane reinforcement?
• Do the trainers use differing methods to adapt to an individual dog's needs?
• Is proof of vaccination a prerequisite?
• Do the dogs and their owners seem to be enjoying themselves?
• Are dogs and owners enthusiastically encouraged?
• Is praise used consistently?
• Are positive and kind voice commands used?
• Are lesson sheets given out?
• Is information on how dogs learn, grooming, problem solving, and other dog/owner issues discussed?

How much does training cost?

Training costs differ based on several factors - where you live, type of training, length of the program, etc. Private lessons can vary from $30 to $65 per hour; group lessons can start at $75, for a set of classes that can last 3 to 8 weeks. Your local shelter or pet store may offer subsidized programs for the general public and/or people who are adopting from the shelter. These costs may range from as low as $30 to up to $90, again depending on the type and length of the program.

When should I start training?

If your pet is a puppy, enroll him in puppy classes between 8 and 16 weeks of age. These classes teach basic commands, tricks, and dog and human socialization skills. Dogs older than six months should be enrolled in either adolescent or adult classes. Some trainers offer specialized older dog training classes for dogs who have never been formally trained before.

After you have decided on a trainer and program:

• Be sure to have your vet give your dog a once over to be sure he is healthy and up-to-date on all his vaccines.
• Skip feeding your dog just before class. Many trainers rely on treats to encourage positive reinforcement of skills. A full dog may not respond to the treats.
• If your trainer recommends bringing certain toys or equipment for a class, have them ready and available.
• Remember to continue your training lessons at home to reinforce newly-learned skills.

Bringing yourself and your dog to training classes benefits both of you, as your dog becomes a well-behaved member of your home and your neighborhood.

For more information

For more information on choosing a dog trainer, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) may help, or call 1-800-PET-DOGS.

Source: Adapted from the HSUS

The article originally appeared on DogTime.com.