As a Central Valley dog trainer for almost 13 years, I know you have a lot of choices when choosing a dog trainer. Because dog trainers don’t have to be licensed in the state of California, anyone can call themselves a dog trainer. Choosing the right dog trainer is an important decision considering you will hopefully have your dog for 10+ years. I have successfully trained thousands of dogs throughout the Central Valley of all ages and breeds, so I know what it takes.
I want you to have a positive experience, one that ends up with a well-behaved dog for you! Whether you need puppy training or have a dog with some mis-behaviors, you want to establish a relationship with your dog based on love, trust and respect.
What should you look for?
- Types of dog training. Different dog trainers use different methods. Some use treats or negative reinforcement while others use shock and prong colors. You need to decide what training philosophy is right for you (one that works, right?). Treat training can work well on a short-term basis, but you must plan on carrying treats at all times. Physical training (alpha rolling, pinning, shock collars) can worsen aggression in a dog that is already aggressive or can create aggression in timid or fearful dogs. The Bark Busters Central Valley methods of training focus on the way dogs naturally communicate. Dogs learn how to communicate as pups with their Moms and the rest of the litter. Pup Moms don’t use treats or prong collars! At Bark Busters Central Valley, we teach you how to communicate with your dog using voice tones and body language.
- Behavior problems. No two dogs are alike, so no two dogs have the same issues. What issues are you having with your dog … barking, separation anxiety, or housebreaking issues? You want a dog trainer that gets to the “root” of the problem, versus just treating the symptom. For instance, dogs bark for a reason. Is your dog barking out of fear, boredom or a cry for attention? Once you uncover the why, you can overcome the bad behavior.
- Location of the training. Many people take their puppies to training classes. The problem with training classes is they cater to the average dog’s problems. For instance, if your dog displays destructive behaviors, this is not something that is going to be addressed in a basic obedience class. That’s why Bark Busters develops a one-on-one training program in your home. Why in your home? This is where the dog is most comfortable (in his own “den”) and where most of problems occur.
- Are you 100% committed to spending the time it takes to train your dog? It will take patience and repetition. Your dog may challenge you as he vies for control. No matter how good your trainer is, you will need to reinforce the techniques you are taught. Although a good dog trainer will change your dog’s behavior immediately, it will take reinforcement on your part.
- Reviews. Technology makes researching a dog trainer easy. Check their reviews. For instance, you can view how my customers respond to my Central Valley dog training by clicking here.
My best advice is to go with your gut. Is the training going to be fun? Because you don’t want a training program you are going to dread. Training your dog should be a blast. Find a method where you smile when you practice.
I hope this advice has been helpful. Finding a good dog trainer can be a daunting task with so many options to choose from but if you do your research, the field will narrow, and your choice should be clearer.
Feel free to contact me – Barbara Gazley – by calling 877-500-2275 or emailing me.
