There are around 14,880 dog trainers in the U.S, which shows there are plenty of choices available for pet owners. All trainers are not created equal, so it’s important to know what to look out for. But don’t worry, although it feels daunting, there is a method to the madness so you can connect with a dog trainer who has your pet’s interests at heart. Perhaps you’re currently in this situation and you’re not sure where to begin your search.
Sounds like you? Don’t you worry, you’ve come to the right place? Here are five tips on how to find the best dog trainer for your pooch.
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1. Outline Training Goals
Before you hunt down the best dog trainer in Tampa Bay, outline your training goals. For instance, perhaps you want to house train your puppy or practice off-leash recall. Once you have a list, then you can find a professional who has deep knowledge in the area, making them worth your time and money.
2. Ask For Certifications
There are multiple ways to train dogs, which is why you should ask for certifications. Each professional has an area of interest, so find one that aligns with your pup’s needs. But don’t worry if you find the perfect dog training professional who doesn’t have certifications, because they could still achieve your training goals.
At the very least, ask them to check proof of their skills and education, such as workshops or courses taken.
3. Check Out Online Reviews
The other way to find a dog trainer is to check out online reviews. This will give you honest feedback about the professional’s service and how they approach training. You should also directly ask for referrals so you can reach out to past customers and ask if they were happy with the trainer.
4. Ask Questions
Our top piece of dog training advice is to come equipped with questions. Ask each candidate about their methods and tools for training pups. You should also make sure the trainer uses positive reinforcement as it’s the most effective way of teaching dogs new tricks.
5. Follow Your Gut
Learning how to train a dog is a difficult process, so follow your gut when you’re browsing options. If there are any minor red flags, continue working down your list. For instance, if a dog trainer isn’t willing to offer referrals, then their customers likely didn’t have a good experience or you could be their first client.
You should also avoid trainers who criticize other professionals, refuse to let you visit their facilities, and become defensive when you ask questions.
Find The Best Dog Trainer Today
Now, after reading this article, you know how to find the best dog trainer in your area.
Start by figuring out your training goals, ask each professional for proof of certifications (if that’s what you want), and ask questions. You should also read online reviews and follow your gut so you can find the perfect trainer for your pup’s needs. Good luck!
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