How Do You Choose a Dog Trainer? What to Look for and What to Avoid

Dog training is an unregulated industry. That means anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, regardless of their education, experience, or methods. Knowing what to look for before you hire someone can protect your dog from approaches that cause fear or harm, and help you find a trainer who actually gets results. Here’s what matters, what to look for, and the red flag language that should make you pause.

Why Do Dog Trainer Certifications Matter?

Because there’s no licensing requirement for dog trainers, certifications are one of the most reliable signals that a trainer has invested in learning the science of behavior and committed to humane methods.

A certification means the trainer has:

• Completed a structured program in animal behavior and learning theory

• Passed practical assessments or written exams

• Agreed to a code of ethics

• Committed to ongoing education to stay current with research

Formal education and certifications don’t guarantee a perfect trainer, but they raise the floor considerably.

Which Dog Training Certifications Are Worth Looking For?

This is not an exhaustive list, but these are respected credentials in the field:

• CTC (Certificate in Training and Counseling, Academy for Dog Trainers): Known for rigorous, evidence-based education.

• KPA CTP (Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner): Expertise in positive reinforcement and marker training.

• IAABC Certified Behavior Consultant (CBBC-KA): Specializes in behavior consulting and modification.

• CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist): For complex behavioral cases requiring deeper expertise in behavior science.

• Fear Free Certified Professional: Focuses on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in training and handling contexts.

• FDM (Family Dog Mediation): A welfare-centered coaching organization and the creator of the L.E.G.S. Model, which looks at behavior through the lens of Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self.

• VSA-CDT (Victoria Stilwell Academy): Positive reinforcement focused training certification.

• PMCT (Pat Miller Certified Trainer): Humane, reward-based methods.

• CBATI or CBATI-KA (Grisha Stewart Academy): Behavior modification focused.

• Animal Behavior College (ABC): Combines theory and hands-on training.

• CATCH Canine Trainers Academy: Science-based training curriculum.

• Pet Professional Guild (PPG): A membership organization committed to force-free methods.

• Behavior Works (Dr. Susan Friedman): Emphasizes the science of behavior and learning.

Why Does Continuing Education Matter in Dog Training?

Behavior science keeps evolving. Trainers who attend conferences, complete additional certifications, and stay engaged with current research are bringing you the most effective and up-to-date methods available. When you’re vetting a trainer, it’s completely reasonable to ask what continuing education they’ve pursued recently.

Why Should You Choose a Positive Reinforcement Trainer?

Positive reinforcement training focuses on rewarding the behaviors you want, rather than punishing the ones you don’t. That approach builds trust, encourages learning, and creates a dog who chooses to work with you.

Training methods that rely on fear, pain, or intimidation can suppress behavior in the short term, but they often create new problems over time, including increased anxiety, avoidance, and in some cases, aggression. The research on this is consistent. Reward-based methods are both effective and better for your dog’s long-term wellbeing.

What Are the Red Flag Words to Watch Out For When Hiring a Dog Trainer?

This is the section most people don’t know about, and it matters. Some trainers who use aversive tools and techniques use specific language to make their methods sound more neutral or scientific than they are. Here’s what to watch for:

“Balanced Training”

Sounds fair and reasonable. In practice, it typically means the trainer uses both positive reinforcement and punishment, which can include shock collars, prong collars, and physical corrections. The “balance” often comes at your dog’s expense.

“Pack Leader” or “Dominance Theory”

These terms come from outdated research that has been thoroughly debunked by modern behavior science. Training built on dominance theory relies on suppressing behavior through intimidation, which can increase fear and aggression rather than resolve it.

“Correction”

Often used to describe leash pops, physical pressure, or aversive tools. It’s a softer word for punishment, and trainers using it frequently may not be transparent about what that actually looks like in a session.

“E-collar” or “Stim”

These are common terms for shock collars. Some trainers describe the sensation as a “mild stimulation,” but the tool works by delivering an unpleasant shock to interrupt or suppress behavior.

“Calm Submission”

A phrase from dominance-based training used to describe a dog that has stopped resisting. A dog that looks calm may actually be shut down or in a state of learned helplessness, not relaxed and confident.

“Rehabilitate”

Not always a red flag on its own, but worth paying attention to. Trainers who focus on “rehabilitation” using punitive methods are often addressing the symptom rather than the underlying cause of the behavior.

“It’s Just a Tool”

Sometimes used to minimize concerns about aversive equipment. Any tool that works by causing pain or discomfort warrants a direct conversation about why it’s being used and what the alternative options are.

Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Dog Trainer

Is it okay to ask a trainer about their methods before booking?

Yes, and you should. A good trainer will be transparent and happy to explain their approach. If someone gets defensive or vague when you ask about their methods, that’s useful information.

What if a trainer has a lot of experience but no certifications?

Experience matters, but without a framework grounded in behavior science, experience can also mean years of practicing outdated or harmful methods. Look for both.

Can I work with a trainer who uses prong or shock collars if they seem nice?

The trainer’s personality and your dog’s experience of the training are two different things. A friendly trainer using aversive tools can still cause fear and anxiety in your dog. Methods matter as much as manner.

What should a first session with a good trainer look like?

A good trainer will spend time assessing your dog, asking about history and context, and explaining their plan before jumping into training. Your dog should not look fearful or shut down during or after a session.

Is online dog training effective?

For many skills and behavior concerns, yes. Online training has become much more accessible and effective. The same vetting criteria apply whether you’re working with someone in person or virtually.

About Nadja

Nadja Juliana Wiese is a dog trainer and the founder of Dogerati, an online dog training education brand based in Seattle, Washington. Her work is grounded in positive reinforcement and welfare-centered training, with a focus on helping dog owners understand their dogs and build practical skills for everyday life. Find her on Instagram and Facebook at @dogerati.