Choosing the Right Trainer for You

As promised, today we want to talk about choosing a trainer. Not all trainers are created equal. It is important to your success as a trainer and your dogs’ success as a trainee that you work with a trainer that compliments your style of work.  My people, Gayle & Jenn, have worked with several trainers over the years. I personally have worked with at least four trainers and I am not yet two years old.

Graduation from Dog Train

I’ll not spend time telling you about the trainers I did not enjoy working with, but rather will spend my time on the positives. My very first trainer was Diane at Dog Train, Inc. Diane is a no non-sense kinda woman. The best part about her class is there is no wasted time or energy. She knows her game plan and how you fit into it. Before the first class, we received a syllabus (just like being in College). We were required to read the materials BEFORE class and to know our plan. We really liked this! It was clear what we needed to know and have made decisions on before we were asked the questions. In the syllabus, there was a plan for what would be covered in each and every class. Ninety-nine percent of the time, the syllabus was spot on (I just like saying spot on).

 Not to turn our post into a Diane love fest, but we (I) also liked that she asked about each individual pup at the start of each class. Issues we were having, things we needed to work on, etc. Even better, she remembered! We actually worked on my trouble spots (there’s my word again – grin).

 Our biggest complaint about other classes is the lack of a game plan. There is too much time spent deciding what to do next. It’s not like they didn’t know we were coming! The best part about other classes (aside for expanding our appreciation of Diane) is that I get to experience a lot of different environments, people, and things. My training spot moves and I have to stay on my toes.

 I just want to reiterate my opening statement, the most important thing in choosing a trainer is to find a trainer that complements your style, personality, and work ethic. The right trainer for some may be the wrong trainer for others. Just with any relationship, try to find someone that challenges you to be better, work harder and be the best you can.

 Here are a couple of links with good information about choosing a trainer:

 HSUS – choosing a dog trainer

 Fosters & Smith – How to Choose a Dog Trainer

 Doglogic – Choosing a Trainer Who Trains People

Tomorrow I have plans to interview my nutritionist (AKA Aunt Kerry). Stay tuned….

And remember, there is no obstacle you can’t get around if you’re willing to run, jump, tunnel or weave.

Wrigley