If you need help training your dog, you should know your options for professionals. Here is what to consider when choosing a dog trainer in Dallas, TX.
Are you a new pet owner, or a dog owner who has moved to the Dallas area? Are you looking for a certified dog trainer?
Believe it or not, the dog training process is not as simple as it sounds. Your dog's obedience, performance, and overall happiness will depend upon your ability to find the right professional.
Here's what you need to consider when choosing a dog trainer.
Philosophy
Some trainers focus on a positive, rewards-only approach. This means that bad behaviors are met only with a lack of reward.
Still, other trainers may use humane consequences for disobedience. Some consequences, such as choke chains, are effective only when used correctly and may also cause your dog to have a bad experience if used incorrectly or when not needed.
Before hiring a dog trainer, ask for examples of common consequences for undesirable behavior. You'll also want to find out about the equipment they will use.
Some trainers may take a more fun approach and focus on the whole dog as they train. Make sure you ask how they would approach a dog with your animal's specific issues before you hire them. Not all dogs are the same and not all behaviors are treated the same, a professional dog trainer should work with enough dogs to be able to adjust their approach based on the dog they are working with and their temperament.
If you're comfortable with the answers, you may have found the right professional.
Experience and Expertise
Before hiring a dog trainer, make sure you ask about how long they have been training pets like yours. What types of dogs do they typically work with, and how long does the process usually take?
The right trainer for you and your pup will have trained many dogs similar to yours before. They may even have unique niches are areas of expertise that can give you extra confidence. These may include training in tricks, behavior modification, or rehabilitation.
Your trainer could have experience working with a number of adverse behaviors. These could include barking, digging, or destructive behavior. Some animals experience separation anxiety or lack self-confidence.
When you talk to a prospective trainer about your animal's specific behaviors, you should become confident that they know exactly how to begin training your dog for better obedience. You should also feel assured that your dog will leave the program healthier, happier, and better able to get along with others.
Recommendations and Reviews
Social media community groups are a great way to get initial recommendations for dog trainers. Folks will know of local experts who have worked wonders with their pets. If more than one person is recommending a particular trainer, you are probably on the right track.
Once you have narrowed down your search, check out online reviews and see what former clients are saying. Did the training program help their dog become better behaved and socialized? Was the staff friendly and professional?
Be on the lookout for repeated negative comments, which can alert you to potential problems. If, however, you are seeing many encouraging comments repeat themselves, you are probably on the right track.
If you still need more reassurance, ask your prospective dog trainer for the names of at least three former clients that you can talk to about their experience. Ask questions about anything that makes you fearful, but this should give you a good idea of what to expect.
You should be able to actually SEE the trainer work with and train with dogs when you meet with them, not just show off their own personal "demo dog." Watch how they interact with the dogs they are training when you visit. Do the dogs look happy, do they look like they are enjoying the process?
Other Services
Qualified dog trainers often offer other dog services. This can give you a great resource if you need other assistance with your pet in the future since you already know you can trust your trainer.
For example, maybe your trainer offers grooming services, or maybe they can board your dog while you're out of town. When it comes to training, they may offer options like group classes and private lessons.
It helps to know what's available in the Dallas area since you'll want your pet-ownership life to be as stress-free as possible.
Cost
The actual cost of dog training will depend upon a number of factors. For example, group training typically costs around $30 to $80 per class, whereas private training can cost $45 to $120 per hour. Day and Train and Board and Train programs should include a few months of group classes and can run from $1,500 to $7,000 depending on the trainer and length of program.
The experience of your dog trainer, as well as your geographical location, will play a role in how much you'll spend. That being said, the least expensive trainer isn't always the best one for you. If you hire a qualified trainer, you will get the best value and avoid having to re-educate your dog later on.
The Benefits of Hiring a Professional
Dallas is a great city with an expanding number of dog parks and dog-friendly shops. It's important to hire a professional who can help get your dog on the right track.
Hiring a dog trainer is a lifeline for so many pet owners. Your dog will listen and obey when given commands. You can also have greater confidence that bringing your pup out in public won't result in any safety issues.
Your dog will have better interactions with people and know when and where to go to the bathroom. The right trainer can also help with any potential temper issues.
If you're a busy professional or parent, you probably don't have time to research dog training and spend hours training your dog properly. The right dog trainer will have years of experience and be able to solve many pet issues on your behalf.
Choosing a Dog Trainer
If you're a pup owner, choosing a dog trainer is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Once you've done your homework, you can be confident that your pet will be obedient and happy for years to come.
Don't stop getting smart about dog training now. For experienced dog training professionals in the Dallas area, contact us today.
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