CHOOSING A TRAINER
Dog training is an exciting profession that appeals to many people. Since dog
training is an unregulated profession, anyone can call themselves a dog trainer
regardless of education or experience. National chains and franchises advertise
that you can become a dog trainer in a matter of weeks with no previous
experience with dogs necessary. Inexperienced trainers may be able to teach your
dog to sit or lie down, but they may not be prepared to recognize early signs of
aggression, solve complex behavior problems, deal with difficult breeds, or
tailor their instruction to fit your needs and situation.
It is critical to interview dog trainers about their
background and approach to dog training to ensure that you find a well-qualified
trainer who will be a good fit for you and your dog.
Below is a list of questions you may want to ask.
1. Is this a full time job or a hobby?
Dog training is my full-time profession.
2. How many years of experience do you have?
Dog training was my avocation for 10 years when I
participated in obedience competitions with my own dog and assisted with
training classes. Since 1997, I have dedicated myself full-time to dog training.
For three years, I apprenticed with another trainer, teaching classes under her
supervision and training dozens of dogs to the point of reliable off leash
obedience. Since 2000, I have run my own business teaching several hundred dogs
and their owners each year. I also volunteer evaluating dogs and teaching
volunteers for our local shelter.
3. Can I observe a class?
You are always welcome to come observe one of my
classes. Please call for a schedule and directions.
4. What is your education?
I have a Ph.D. in biology, an excellent background for
understanding the science of animal behavior. Like the majority of dog trainers,
my education in dogs comes primarily through self-education: apprenticing,
attending conferences and seminars, networking with other trainers, reading
texts on dog training and veterinary behavior, and of course working hands on
with hundreds of dogs. This year alone I have attended seminars given by top
trainers and behaviorists from around the country including Pam Reid, Jean
Donaldson, Sheila Booth and John Rogerson.
5. What are your professional affiliations?
I am a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.
I am also an AKC CGC Approved Evaluator.
6. Do you teach pet dog classes or competition classes?
Although I enjoy competing with my own dogs and find
that it sharpens my training skills, my classes are designed to teach skills
that your dog needs in everyday life. My classes provide a great foundation for
your future agility or field dog, but we do not spend time in class trying to
attain the degree of precision (e.g. perfectly straight sits) required for
competition obedience.
7. Will I be required to use a certain type of collar?
Often trainers will insist that you put a choke chain
on your Maltese puppy or that you should be able to walk your newly adopted
Boxer with just a buckle collar. I believe that different equipment works better
for different dogs. In class, you will have a choice between a regular buckle
collar, a front clip harness such as the Easy
Walk,
a head halter such as the Gentle Leader,
or if you have a non-reactive dog who pulls, you may use a pinch
collar.
I do not allow choke chains in class since we do not use leash corrections.
You will also need a six foot leash,
lots of treats, and your dog’s favorite toy.
8. How big are your classes?
Puppy Pre-School is limited to 7 puppies. Beginner’s
and Intermediate are limited to 8 dogs and Canine Good Citizen is limited to 9
dogs.
9. Where are your classes taught and what is the environment
like?
Puppy Pre-School is taught indoors at a veterinary
clinic after the office is closed. All other classes are taught outdoors either
on a lawn or in a large parking lot. This allows us to have plenty of space
between the dogs and lots of room to work on training come when called and loose
leash walking. Unlike classes taught indoors at pet stores, you will not have to
deal with cramped spaces and members of the public trying to pet your dog while
you are trying to train it.
10. Do you offer a guarantee?
The Association of Pet Dog Trainers, of which I am a
member, prohibits members from offering guarantees (www.apdt.com/po/ts/choose_trainer.aspx).
Dogs vary widely in how quickly they learn. Results also depend on how
frequently you practice and how consistently you follow recommendations. If you
are offered a guarantee that seems to be too good to be true, it probably is!
11. Are you willing to discuss your methods?
Sure! I teach primarily by lure and reward methods, using
a food treat like a magnet. Once your dog has learned the desired behavior, you
will be shown non-confrontational ways to get your dog to respond consistently
without depending on a treat in your hand. Dog
training is becoming a more polarized profession with some trainers insisting
that dogs should never hear the word “No” and others relying on harsh
physical corrections or shock collars (also known as e-touch or gentle
stimulation). I believe that some balance can be found between these two
viewpoints. I don’t think that punishment should be our primary method of
teaching, but I also think it is unrealistic to think that an owner will never
yell at or punish a dog. I am happy to discuss with you how to use punishment
correctly and more importantly how to train and manage your dog so that it just
isn’t necessary.
12. Do you enjoy teaching people?
Yes! Unlike many dog trainers, I enjoy working with
people as much as I enjoy training dogs. Surprisingly, many people who hire me
say that I was the first trainer they talked to who was actually nice to them
when they called.
Anne Macaulay, Ph.D. · (732) 940-0208 · E-mail: 
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