R. I. Dog Guy, LLC

Selecting the right training program for your dog is an important decision.  To bring out the best in your dog, and to have a dog who is a good member of the family and community, requires a partnership among the owner, training instructor, and of course the dog.  You and your dog both need to be comfortable with the trainer's knowledge, methods and style.  Here are some hints for selecting the right trainer, and the right training program.

The Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) provides a great guide for selecting a trainer.  The APDT is dedicated to building better trainers through education, promoting dog-friendly methods and encouraging their use.  They recommend that you find a trainer whose classes are fun, who is a skilled instructor of people as well as dogs, is open to dialogue and is up to date on training methods.  They also suggest that you ask about training methods and equipment, and be sure you are comfortable with what the trainer uses.  A good trainer should insist that all dogs be healthy and vaccinated against common diseases, should be willing to provide references, and should welcome visits to training classes. 

Dog training instructors typically provide group classes, private instruction in clients’ homes, or both.  Some also board dogs while they train them, or do day training while dogs are in day care.  There are advantages and disadvantages to all of these approaches.

Group classes benefit dogs by helping them to be comfortable around other dogs and people.  Owners can talk with others about the challenges they may be having, and find useful information and support.  Group classes are less costly than private lessons or board/day care programs.  The disadvantage is that group classes are held at a specific location so that you have to travel. Most group classes follow a fixed curriculum and schedule that may not be convenient for all owners.  In large classes, owners and dogs may not get much individual help.

Private instruction can be tailored to the specific goals and schedule of the owner and the special needs of the dog.  They are held at the owner’s home at a convenient time.  Dogs in private instruction may not have as much opportunity as those in classes to interact with other dogs and people.  Private instruction is more costly than group classes.

Board and train or day care programs can benefit dogs because they provide intensive interaction between the dog and a skilled trainer.  Progress in these programs can be very rapid.  It is necessary to build in time for a smooth transition back to the owner and to instruct the owner in the training methods used.   And of course, your puppy is away from you for the duration of the training!