fbpx

How to Find a Qualified Dog Trainer

It can be difficult to know who to trust when seeking help with your dog. Dog training is not regulated in the U.S, meaning anyone can claim to be a dog trainer, behaviorist, or “dog psychologist.”

Finding the right fit can be challenging. The following questions can help you assess a trainer’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to ongoing education, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet your needs.

These questions and resources can also help you find qualified veterinarians, dog walkers, groomers, and other pet professionals. A reputable candidate will be happy to provide clear, concrete answers. If responses are vague or make you uncomfortable, keep looking.

Experience:

How long have you worked with dogs, and in what capacity?
Have you worked with all types of dogs and behavioral issues?
Do you have experience with my specific goals, my dog's breed, and my dog’s particular challenges?
What is your formal education in dog training or behavior?
What continuing education are you currently pursuing?
Are you fully insured for the services you provide?
Do you hold any credentials, and are they current?
Do you enjoy working with people, teaching, and coaching? A good trainer focuses on building strong relationships with both dogs and their humans.

You may also want to ask if they have undergone a background check or hold additional certifications, such as pet first aid or Fear Free certification.

Methods:

What training tools do you use or recommend, and why?
How do you respond if my dog makes a mistake?
What happens when my dog gets something right?
Do you follow modern, science-backed methods such as LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) and force-free training?

If you're looking for a trainer who prioritizes kindness and supports both your dog's physical and emotional well-being, be cautious of language like pack, leader, corrections, dominance, or alpha. These outdated concepts are not aligned with modern, humane training practices.

Be wary of guarantees and anyone who says they can ‘fix’ your dog. Behavior can be complex and can take time to change.When searching for a dog trainer, you may come across professionals who guarantee results—promising that your dog will be fully trained or that all behavior issues will be "fixed" within a specific timeframe. While this may sound appealing, it’s important to understand why ethical trainers do not offer behavior change guarantees and why such promises can be misleading.


Why Behavior Guarantees Are a Red Flag

1️⃣ Dogs Are Individuals, Not Machines
Just like people, dogs learn at different rates and respond uniquely to training. Factors like genetics, past experiences, environment, and health all influence their progress. A trainer can guide the process, but they cannot force a guaranteed outcome.

2️⃣ Behavior Change Is a Process, Not an Instant Fix
Training and behavior modification takes time, consistency, and effort from both the trainer and the dog’s guardian. Sustainable progress depends on ongoing reinforcement at home.

3️⃣ Guarantees Can Signal the Use of Harsh Methods
Some trainers offering guarantees may resort to forceful or punitive techniques to achieve fast, surface-level results. While these methods can suppress behavior in the short term, they can also cause fear, anxiety, and even aggression over time. Ethical trainers use humane approaches that focus on long-term learning and trust.

4️⃣ Ethical Trainers Guarantee Their Methods, Not the Outcome


A reputable trainer can guarantee that they will:

✔️ Use humane training techniques


✔️ Customize the approach based on your dog’s needs


✔️ Be transparent about progress and realistic expectations


✔️ Provide guidance for you to continue success at home

However, they will not guarantee a specific behavior change—because no ethical trainer can promise to override a dog's emotions, instincts, or unique personality.

My Commitment to You and Your Dog:

I am dedicated to using only humane methods and will always be transparent about your dog’s progress and realistic expectations. My goal is to help you and your dog build a strong, trusting relationship—without gimmicks or false promises.

More About Me:

I specialize in puppy training as well as working with dogs experiencing fear, anxiety, and aggression. If your dog has complex behavioral needs beyond my expertise—such as severe multi-dog bite cases—I will refer you to a trusted colleague with the right experience.

When choosing a trainer, check their reputation in the community and whether they follow an ethics policy. If they claim certification with an organization, verify their listing on the organization's website or ask for clarification. A reputable trainer should be open about their credentials.

    Two that I belong to are:

    CCPDT Certification for Professional Dog Trainers 

    IAABC International Association of Behavior Consultants

    I have done many courses with most of these organizations:

    Let's work together!

    I am available for Online or In-Person work. Please click below to learn more.

    Online Puppy Training & Dog Training 

    📍 Virtual Consults & Local Private Training 🏠

    San Diego - Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Del Mar, and Encinitas.

    Fairbanks Ranch

    Copyright © The Puppy Care Company 2024. All Right Reserved. Privacy Policy & Website Terms - Contact