Here’s Help With Choosing A Trainer

Shock collars are inhumane. Shock collars are humane if used sparingly.

Every dog should be trained the same way. Training should be tailored to the breed and the individual dog.

Some physical discipline is appropriate. Never physically discipline a dog.

To understand dog behavior look at wolf behavior. Dogs are not wolves so behavioral comparisons are invalid.

When it comes to dog training and dog behavior, consensus can be hard to find.

With myriad philosophies out there, how does the average dog owner find a reputable dog trainer?

Who should a dog owner consult if a dog has a behavioral problem?

Here is how six national dog training and animal behavior experts answered those questions:

“It’s very much buyer beware,” said Dr. Patricia McConnel, an applied ethologist in Wisconsin. “It can be regrettably difficult to find a dog trainer who is reputable because there is no integrated national program. Look for a trainer with a clear understanding of positive reinforcement, but who is also willing to set boundaries.”

Kathleen Chin of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers stresses homework.

“Observing the trainer before taking a class is really important,” Chin said. “Look at the trainer and the class as you would a day care. Do you feel comfortable with the trainer’s methods? Is the trainer willing to give you and your dog individual attention? A good trainer will have no problem with you coming to observe a class.”

Lonnie Olson, past president of the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors and one of three people who examine the test results of dog trainers applying for membership in the organization, suggests choosing a trainer with a diverse background.

“Look for someone who is well versed in many methods, someone who understands they might not want to use the same technique with all breeds,” Olson said. “I recommend humane, motivational methods like those developed by (well-known dog trainer) Jack Volhard.”

To solve behavioral problems, Dr. Catherine Ulibarri, an animal behaviorist with the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital’s Animal Behavior Referral Clinic, suggests dog owners look beyond basic obedience training.

“One of the biggest myths is that obedience has any bearing on behavioral problems,” Ulibarri said. “Eighty percent of behavioral problems are medical. If a medical cause is ruled out, many vets know how to refer their patients to a certified animal behaviorist.”

Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinarian certified in animal behavior by both the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and the Animal Behavior Society, concurs with Ulibarri.

“Behavior is not separate from medicine,” Beaver said. “It is intricately involved in medical problems. For example, look at how drugs interact with brain neurotransmitters.”

Dr. Suzanne Hetts, an animal behaviorist and chairperson of the Animal Behavior Society’s Board of Professional Certification, urges dog owners whose dogs have behavioral problems to work only with professionals.

“Anyone can call themselves a behavioral consultant,” Hetts said. “Make sure they have the credentials.”

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