Choosing a Dog Trainer: Important Questions to Consider

Interviewing a dog trainer can be confusing so I’ve put together a list of some of the essential questions you should ask when looking for a trainer for you and your furry family member. It doesn’t include everything you may need but it could help you in your decision process.

Company Name: ___________________________________________________

Training and Services:

• What type of training do you offer?
  • puppy training                                  Yes    No
  • obedience                                         Yes    No
  • behavior modification                      Yes    No
• How much does dog training cost?
  • Per session __________    Per Hour __________ Initial Consult __________
• Do you charge for the initial consult? Yes No
  • How long does it take? ___________________________________________________
  • How do you do it? ___________________________________________________
• Can you help with my specific dog’s issue?
  • Aggression towards other dogs___ / towards people ___
  • Separation anxiety                           Yes    No
  • Jumping on people                          Yes    No
  • Walking on Leash                            Yes    No
  • Retrieval                                            Yes    No
• Do you offer private training ____ or group classes _____
• Board & Train:  Y__No_ / Cost per day _________ / week _________ Total: _________
• Do you come to my place ____ or do I take my dog to you___?
• How long will it take to train my dog? _________________________________________
• What are your qualifications ________________________________________________
  • experience _____________________________________________________________?
• What training methods do you use?
  • Positive reinforcement _______   E-collars _______  Dominance ______
• Do you offer any guarantees?
  • None _______          30-90 days ________         1 year _____   Lifetime ___________
• Notes: _________________________________________________________________________
• _______________________________________________________________________________
• _______________________________________________________________________________
• _______________________________________________________________________________
• _______________________________________________________________________________

Be sure to look at what others say about their experience with the trainer you are interviewing. Be thorough; your trainer needs as much information as you can supply about your dog.