Choosing the right dog trainer is one of the most important decisions you'll make for your dog’s well-being. A knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled trainer can make all the difference in your dog’s behavior and your relationship with them. Here’s what to look for when selecting a dog trainer, and how to avoid potential red flags.
The Value of Education and Certification:
A reputable dog trainer should have a strong foundation in animal behavior and positive reinforcement techniques. While anyone can claim to be a dog trainer, formal education and certifications are essential indicators of a trainer’s commitment to professional development and humane training methods.
Formal Education: Look for trainers who have attended accredited programs. These programs teach the science behind animal behavior and training techniques that promote trust and cooperation.
Certifications: Earning a certification demonstrates that a trainer has passed rigorous exams and practical assessments. It also shows they stay up-to-date with the latest research through continuing education.
Reputable Schools and Certifications:
Here are some respected institutions and certifications that reflect a trainer’s expertise: (this is not an exhaustive list)
Academy for Dog Trainers: Graduates or those with the Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC) from this former SF SPCA program are known for their expertise in evidence-based, humane training.
Animal Behavior College: Trainers certified through the ABC have completed both theory and hands-on training.
CATCH Canine Trainers Academy: Offers a well-rounded program in science-based dog training techniques.
IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants): Look for Certified Behavior Consultants (CBCC-KA) who specialize in canine behavior.
Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA, CPDT-KSA, CBCC-KA): These certifications, offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), require both practical experience and an understanding of humane training methods.
Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB): For complex behavioral cases, a CAAB offers specialized expertise in both behavior and training.
Fear Free Certified Professional: Focuses on reducing fear, anxiety, and stress in dogs, especially during veterinary visits and grooming.
Grisha Stewart Academy: Offers education in behavior modification techniques (CBATI or CBATI-KA)
How Behavior Works: Living and Learning with Animals: Dr. Susan Friedman’s course emphasizes the science of behavior and learning.
Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP): Trainers certified through Karen Pryor’s academy are experts in positive reinforcement and clicker training.
Pat Miller Certified Trainer (PMCT): PMCT-certified trainers are skilled in humane, reward-based methods.
Pet Professional Guild (PPG): A membership organization committed to force-free training methods.
Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA-CDT): VSA-certified trainers use positive reinforcement to build relationships between dogs and their humans.
Continuing Education:
Dog training and animal behavior research are always evolving. Trainers who prioritize continuing education show a commitment to providing the best, most up-to-date methods for their clients. Continuing education might include attending conferences, workshops, or earning additional certifications. This shows that the trainer is dedicated to learning and growing within their field.
Why Choose Positive Reinforcement Trainers?
Positive reinforcement trainers focus on rewarding desired behaviors rather than punishing unwanted ones. This builds trust, encourages learning, and fosters a strong bond between you and your dog. Training based on force, fear, or pain can lead to long-term behavioral issues, such as anxiety or aggression, whereas positive reinforcement is proven to be both effective and humane
Red Flag Words to Watch Out For:
Unfortunately, not all trainers use humane, science-backed methods. Some trainers who use aversive techniques (such as shock, prong collars, and intimidation) will use certain words to hide the reality of their training style. Here are some red flag terms:
“Balanced Training”: This often means the trainer uses a combination of positive reinforcement and punishment, which can include harsh methods like shock collars or prong collars. While it sounds fair, “balance” often involves using fear and pain, which can damage the trust between you and your dog.
“Pack Leader” or “Dominance Theory”: These terms are based on outdated theories that suggest dogs need to be dominated to behave. This approach has been debunked by modern science and can lead to fear and aggression in dogs.
“Correction”: While this sounds gentle, it often means physical punishment, such as leash pops or using aversive tools. Trainers using this language may be hiding the fact that they rely on fear and intimidation.
“E-collar” or “Stim”: These are often euphemisms for shock collars. While some trainers may claim that e-collars give a “mild stimulation,” they work by delivering an unpleasant shock to the dog.
“Calm Submission”: This phrase comes from dominance-based training and is often used to justify using force to control a dog’s behavior. It can result in a dog that appears calm but is actually shut down or fearful.
“Rehabilitate”: Trainers who use this term often work with dogs displaying behavioral issues, but may rely on punitive methods to “fix” the dog rather than understanding and addressing the root causes of the behavior.
“It’s just a tool”: This phrase is sometimes used to downplay the harm caused by aversive tools like prong collars or shock collars. While tools can aid training, those that inflict pain or discomfort should never be necessary.
In Conclusion
Because dog training is an unregulated industry, it’s essential to prioritize education, certifications, and continuing education. Look for trainers who are transparent about their methods, use positive reinforcement, and avoid fear, pain and intimidation. By staying informed and vigilant about red flag terms used in the industry, you can ensure your dog is in caring, capable hands. Your dog deserves the best – choose a trainer who values kindness, science, and respect for all animals.
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