What Separates a Good Dog Trainer from a Great Dog Trainer?
When it comes to training your furry friend, you want to make sure that you hire only the best. With plenty of good trainers in the business, what actually makes the good, great? In this blog, we will discuss how a good dog trainer differs from a great one as we review some of the most popular trainers in the business; some of these names include Doggy Dan, Ian Dunbar, Will Atherton, and many more.
The Importance of Pack Leadership and a Calm Demeanor
A critical difference between good trainers and great trainers is their ability to effect pack leadership yet remain in neutral. Great trainers understand that leading the pack with a strong, assured leader is significant because dogs are pack animals and therefore will look toward their leader for guidance and instruction.
Doggy Dan, for example, insists on the importance of assuming pack leadership through calm, assertive behavior. Ian Dunbar, a veterinarian and dog trainer, believes that dogs thrive on strong, fair leadership and is an advocate for positive reinforcement training methods. Will Atherton is known for his calm and gentle approach, which he insists is crucial to build trust and respect with dogs.
Characteristics of a Great Dog Trainer
Aside from pack leadership and calm demeanor, great trainers have many other qualities that distinguish them from simply good trainers. For example, they must be able to read a dog’s body language and communication to understand what their needs are and take appropriate action. They must be patient, able to adapt to any situation, and bend their training methods to suit the personality and learning style of each dog.
Experience isn’t Everything
Although experience most definitely has some value, it certainly is not in any way representative of a trainer who is considered excellent or otherwise poor. For a trainer with probably many years’ experience may actually still not attain the proper ability and demeanor to become truly great; conversely, a new person may happen upon the position quite intuitively, demonstrating an immediate gift and rapport with dogs.
What to Look for in a Great Trainer
There are a few things to consider when looking for a great dog trainer. Look for trainers who utilize positive reinforcement training methods, know a thing or two about canine behavior, and have a calm and patient demeanor. You will want to verify their credentials and certifications, as well as read reviews and ask for recommendations.
Why Paying More May Be the Best Value
While it is tempting to go with a less expensive trainer, paying more for a great trainer is really the best value. A great trainer will help you achieve faster and more effective results which will save you time, money and stress in the long run.
In short, what makes a great dog trainer is pack leadership qualities, calm and composed demeanor, and reading into canine body expressions. While experience is important, it isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a trainer. When looking for a great trainer, prioritize positive reinforcement methods, check their credentials and certifications, and be willing to invest in their expertise for the best results.