Expert Insights: How to Choose the Best Dog Trainer for Your Pet

A skilled dog trainer plays a vital role in shaping your pet’s behavior and well-being. The right training strengthens your bond, curbs unwanted behaviors, and builds confidence and social skills in your dog.

Dog training is an unregulated industry in the U.S., allowing anyone to claim the title without formal qualifications. This lack of oversight makes it essential for pet owners to choose trainers carefully.

Hiring an unqualified dog trainer can lead to serious consequences, including increased aggression, family stress, or even harm to people and pets. That’s why it’s up to pet owners to thoroughly examine and choose a qualified professional.

Effective Dog Training Techniques: What Works and Why

Positive reinforcement is widely recognized as the most effective and humane dog training method. It uses rewards like treats, toys, or praise to encourage desired behaviors and build your dog’s confidence. Backed by learning science, this approach strengthens the bond between you and your dog while making training enjoyable and successful.

Force-based, balanced, and punishment-based training methods use harsh corrections like leash jerks, shouting, or physical force. These outdated techniques can increase fear, anxiety, and aggression in dogs and are proven to be less effective than positive reinforcement.

Avoid trainers who use choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars, as these tools rely on pain and fear. True positive reinforcement trainers do not use, and are not associated with, aversive equipment.

Be cautious of trainers who use phrases like “pack leader,” “alpha,” “dominance theory,” or “balanced approach,” as these often signal reliance on outdated, aversive methods. Also, beware of those who dismiss the use of treats. Effective, science-based training embraces reward-based motivation.

How to Choose a Qualified Dog Trainer: What to Look For

Qualified dog trainers have in-depth knowledge of canine behavior, learning theory, and humane training practices. Choose a trainer who actively pursues ongoing education and stays updated with the latest research in animal behavior science.

Academic knowledge is important, but hands-on experience is essential for effective dog training. Look for professionals who have real-world, in-person experience working with a variety of dogs and behavior issues.

Professional affiliations and certifications

Certifications demonstrate a dog trainer’s expertise, ethical standards, and commitment to humane, science-based methods. Choosing a certified professional ensures your dog is treated with care and trained using proven, effective techniques.

Membership in professional organizations like CCPDT, IAABC, or ABTC shows a trainer’s alignment with ethical standards. However, membership alone doesn’t guarantee skill or expertise. Always verify credentials and real-world experience.

Specialized certifications like Fear Free Professional or Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer add valuable expertise in specific areas. However, they should complement, not replace, comprehensive, science-based dog training credentials.

Competence vs. experience

When choosing a dog trainer, look for a few years of professional experience, especially with the specific behavioral issues your dog is facing. Relevant, hands-on experience is key to ensuring effective, tailored training solutions.

Claims like "having owned dogs their whole life" or “specializing in your breed” can be misleading and aren’t proof of true training expertise. Remember, experience alone doesn’t guarantee competence. Look for demonstrated skills, education, and ethical methods.

Transparency and communication

Trustworthy dog trainers are clear about their methods, pricing, and training expectations from the start. They openly communicate their approach and are happy to answer questions about their philosophy and techniques.

An effective dog trainer focuses on teaching you how to train your dog, ensuring long-term success. They should encourage participation from the entire household, including children, for consistent, clear communication with your pet.

Top Resources for Finding a Reputable Dog Trainer

Professional organization directories are a reliable way to find trainers who meet education standards and follow humane, science-based methods. Reputable examples include the following:

• Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  
• International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
  
• Academy for Dog Trainers
  
• Karen Pryor Academy
  
• Pat Miller Certified Trainer
  
• Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC)
  
• Pet Professional Accreditation Board
  
• Victoria Stilwell Academy
  
• The Academy of Pet Careers
  
• Online platforms like FindADogTrainer.com

For complex behavioral issues such as aggression, anxiety, or fear, consult a board-certified veterinary behaviorist (DACVB) or a pet homeopathy expert. These specialists are licensed veterinarians and holistic experts with advanced training in animal behavior and medical solutions.

Recommendations and referrals

Referrals from veterinarians, shelters, rescues, friends, or breed clubs can be a great starting point when searching for a dog trainer. However, since referrals may be based on visibility rather than skill, it’s essential to do your own research and verify the trainer’s qualifications.

Thorough online research can reveal a lot about a dog trainer’s approach and credibility.  Review their website, social media, blog posts, or published materials. Look for detailed client reviews that highlight how the trainer worked with both the dog and owner, not just claims of quick fixes.

Always search the trainer’s business name online to check for complaints, negative reviews, or concerning news. A few minutes of research can protect you from poor practices and help you choose a reputable professional.

How to Interview a Dog Trainer: Questions That Matter

Prepare your questions before speaking with a potential dog trainer, and don’t hesitate to ask more as the conversation unfolds. Start with, “What is your training philosophy and method?” Look for science-based, positive reinforcement approaches and steer clear of anyone who uses or endorses aversive tools.

• Ask, “What training and experience do you have, and how long have you been working in the field?” This helps ensure the trainer has both the credentials and hands-on expertise needed to address your dog’s specific needs.
• Ask, “What is your educational background, and how do you stay current with new training methods?” Ongoing education shows a trainer’s commitment to using the most effective, science-based techniques.
• Ask, “What certifications do you hold, and what do they entail?” Look for third-party certifications that require testing and practical experience, as they verify a trainer’s competence and commitment to professional standards.
• Ask, “What do you do if a dog makes a mistake or doesn’t listen?” The right answer should focus on helping the dog succeed, not using corrections or punishment, reflecting a humane, modern training approach.
• Ask, “What training tools do you use?” Look for answers that include treats, toys, or clicker training, and avoid any trainer who uses prong, choke, or shock collars, or whose presence causes fear in your dog.
• Ask, “Do you guarantee results?” Ethical trainers will say no, because every dog and human is unique, and honest professionals won’t promise outcomes they can’t control.
• Ask, “What types of cases do you refer to other specialists?” A knowledgeable, ethical trainer understands their limits and will refer out when necessary to ensure your dog gets the right care and expertise.
  

Digging Deeper: How to Assess a Dog Trainer Effectively

Here are key tips to keep in mind when evaluating a dog trainer’s credibility and methods. Use these insights to make an informed, confident choice for your dog’s training needs.

Observe a training session

Attend a training class as an observer before enrolling your dog. Look for dogs that seem relaxed, focused, and engaged. Avoid programs where dogs appear fearful, withdrawn, or overly stressed.

A quality training class should have a calm, low-stress environment. Excessive barking or shouting may signal poor handling or tension. Make sure the trainer consistently uses force-free methods in practice, not just in marketing, and avoids mixing rewards with harsh corrections.

A skilled dog trainer should treat both dogs and their owners with patience, encouragement, and respect. Positive, professional interactions are key indicators of a supportive and effective learning environment.

Evaluate the trainer’s online presence

Review the trainer’s website and social media for photos and videos of dogs they’ve worked with. Look for happy, engaged dogs, not animals showing signs of stress like tucked tails, flattened ears, or avoidance.

Watch for the types of equipment used in photos and videos. Harnesses are ideal, and flat collars are generally acceptable. Avoid trainers who use or conceal prong collars, choke chains, or e-collars, as these indicate aversive training methods.

Ask for references

Ask for client references to learn more about the trainer’s real-world results and communication style. A reputable trainer will welcome the opportunity to share positive feedback from past clients.

Don’t stop at reading testimonials. Reach out to at least a couple of past clients directly. Speaking with them helps confirm their satisfaction and gives you a clearer picture of the trainer’s approach and results.

Choosing the Right Type of Dog Training for Your Needs

Many people assume dog training is the same across the board, but it actually comes in several specialized forms. Exploring these options will help you find the best fit for your dog’s behavior, age, and training goals:

• Group training classes offer structured learning and valuable socialization for your dog, often at a lower cost. They're a great option for building basic skills in a controlled, distraction-filled environment.
• Private dog training lessons provide personalized, one-on-one support tailored to your dog’s unique behavioral needs. This focused approach is ideal for addressing specific issues or achieving faster progress.
• In-home dog training takes place in your dog’s familiar environment, reducing stress and improving focus. It’s especially effective for addressing issues that occur specifically at home, like leash reactivity or door manners.
• Drop-off training programs allow the trainer to build foundational skills while your dog is in their care. Follow-up lessons help you continue the training at home, ensuring consistency and long-term success.
• Virtual dog training offers convenient, accessible coaching for pet owners through video calls and online platforms. It’s a great option for basic obedience, behavior consultations, or continued training from the comfort of home.

Make sure the trainer provides services that match your specific goals, whether it’s puppy training, basic obedience, behavior modification, or dog sports. Choosing a trainer with the right focus ensures more effective and tailored results for your dog.

Why Dog Training Can Be Stressful and What You Can Do About It

Adrenal fatigue in animals results from prolonged stress or anxiety, which can deplete cortisol, the hormone that regulates the stress response. Common signs include low energy, poor concentration, and depression.

Zumalka’s VITALOPET is especially formulated with powerful herbs that help support the hypothalamus and pituitary axis, helping to balance stress hormone production. It also helps nourish the adrenal, thyroid, and other glandular systems to promote overall hormonal health in pets.

To emphasize, VITALOPET is an adaptogenic formula that helps pets adapt to stress by supporting healthy adrenal function and regulating key systems like metabolism, immunity, and blood pressure. Ideal for adrenal fatigue and low resistance to illness, it helps boost your pet’s natural defenses for optimal wellness.

Dog Training Costs: What to Expect and Why It Varies

The length of a dog training program significantly impacts the overall cost. Short-term puppy classes are typically more affordable, while advanced or long-term training programs require a greater investment.

Trainers with advanced qualifications and extensive experience often charge higher fees, and for good reason. Investing in a skilled, ethical professional ensures effective results and helps you avoid the risks and setbacks of cheaper, unqualified options.

A trainer’s location and reputation can greatly influence pricing, with well-known professionals or urban facilities often charging more. Take time to research and compare options to find the right balance between cost, quality, and convenience.

Final Thoughts: Making a Smart, Lasting Investment in Your Dog’s Future

Choosing the right dog trainer is a key decision that directly impacts your dog’s behavior and long-term well-being. The right guidance strengthens your bond and lays the foundation for a lifetime of trust and success.

Take the time to research carefully, ask the right questions, and choose a trainer committed to positive reinforcement. This approach ensures a humane, effective training experience that supports your dog’s long-term success.

Hiring an excellent dog trainer is a smart investment in your dog’s future. It sets the stage for a lifetime of joyful, well-mannered companionship and a stronger bond between you and your pet.

FAQs

How to know if a dog trainer is good?

A good dog trainer uses positive reinforcement, holds reputable certifications, communicates clearly, and tailors methods to your dog’s needs. Look for transparency, client testimonials, and dogs that are happy, relaxed, and responsive during training.

How do I choose a dog trainer?

Choose a dog trainer by researching credentials, asking about training methods, and observing their interactions with dogs. Prioritize positive reinforcement, clear communication, and experience with your dog’s specific behavior or training goals.

How to know if a dog trainer is legitimate?

To know if a dog trainer is legitimate, check for reputable certifications, client reviews, and a clear, force-free training philosophy. Legitimate trainers are transparent, experienced, and committed to humane, science-based methods.

How to find the best dog trainer?

To find the best dog trainer, research credentials, read client reviews, and observe training sessions. Look for certified professionals who use positive reinforcement and customize their approach to your dog’s specific needs.

What is the best age to get a dog trainer?

The best age to get a dog trainer is during puppyhood, typically between 8 and 16 weeks, to build good habits early. However, dogs of any age can benefit from professional, positive reinforcement training.

What age is too late for dog training?

It’s never too late for dog training. Dogs can learn at any age with the right approach. Older dogs often benefit from positive reinforcement methods tailored to their needs, pace, and experience.

Is it worth getting a trainer for a dog?

Yes, getting a trainer for your dog is a valuable investment. A professional trainer provides expert guidance, addresses behavioral issues, and strengthens your bond, leading to a well-behaved, confident, and happier dog long-term.

What age is a dog hardest to train?

Dogs are often hardest to train during adolescence, typically between 6 and 18 months. This phase can bring increased independence and testing of boundaries, making consistent, positive reinforcement training especially important.

About the author

Suzie Cyrenne

HOMEOPATH & CO-FOUNDER OF ZUMALKA

Suzie Cyrenne has dedicated more than 20 years of her life in making and improving natural animal health solutions in the global setting.

Being the co-founder of Zumalka, Suzie is a forerunner in enhancing the lives of pets through natural and homeopathic options using the knowledge she has gained from the Classical Homeopathy School in Quebec.

Through the guidance of her mother-in-law and fellow natural health expert, Denyse Lessard, Suzie constantly devotes herself to create premium pet products that are aimed at dealing with the root causes of wellness problems and not just their symptoms.

Besides immersing herself in books, personal development and visiting new places, Suzie also enjoys keeping herself in tiptop shape by snowboarding and taking daily hikes with her husband and Zumalka co-founder, Matt Lessard, and their Golden-Doodle, Westin.

Find out more about Suzie when you click HERE.