Terry's Tips > What To Look For In a Dog Training Class

Dog training classes, the type where you and your dog attend together, can be the very best thing for your dog's future success as a good companion animal. Class can also be a very detrimental experience for both dog and owner. Investigate--training classes are not all alike. Before enrolling, ask questions or see if the instructor will allow you to visit a class in currently in progress. Things to look for and think about before enrolling:

• Can the instructor tell you the goals of the class? Can the instructor explain easily the steps that will be taken to attain the objectives? Are the exercises being taught are useful for your lifestyle or consistent with your expectations?
• Does the instructor check the health records of the dogs registering for class? Will you be asked to fill out a profile about you and your dog, or at least ask a few questions such as your dog's age ?
• A good instructor will have a variety of techniques, most of them positive. Are the majority of the exercises taught by reinforcing good behavior or by punishing inappropriate behavior?
• Are the people getting individual attention and coaching or is the instructor simply calling out general directions? A ratio of more than five students to one instructor is pushing the limit for a quality class.
• Are the instructor's directions clear to you? Do the people and dogs seem to be catching on with ease or are either confused?
• Are the students, spectators and dogs treated with respect?
• Is there reasonable control of the class? It should be clear to you right away WHO the instructor is and what is happening in the class. However don't confuse lack of class control with enthusiasm and animation! A good class can have both.

For Additional Information:

Association of Pet Dog Trainers is an organization that lists member trainers geographically. Membership is not a guarantee of a good instructor. All you have to do to join is pay the fee. This organization attracts many reward-based trainers.

National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors is an organization also has a geographic list of instructors. Membership is not a guarantee of a good instructor. There is a written test associated with this organization.

The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers conducts the most vigorous screening. To be certified, candidates must pass a 250 question written exam and have at least 300 hours of experience in dog training during the last 5 years (75% of which must be in actual teaching hours as Head Trainer or Instructor). All certified trainers must earn continuing education credits to maintain their designations. They must also adhere to a strict Code of Ethics in their dog training practices.