Do You Need In Home Dog Training?

By Geraldine Dimarco

Have you ever gone home to see your puppy make your whole living room his personal fire hydrant? How about leaving for work trying to cover the freshly gnawed side of your shoe? Do you have friends who took rabies shots before deciding to ever visit you again? If this is you then it might be time to call in dog training experts into your abode.

There are a number of pet owners who want to train their own pets. Unfortunately, due to lack of know-how and time, they dont get around doing much about this. If this is you, do not fret; in home dog training is an excellent alternative way to watch your dogs progress in the privacy in your own home. Sounds good? Well, before you call up that dog trainer, there are a few things you might want to ask first.

What is the level of obedience of your canine? If you have attempted dog training and have had some success in doing so; consider doing it yourself. There is no better person to teach your dog but you. However, if you have correctly assessed your incapacity as an effective trainer, then by all means have a professional trainer over as soon as you are able.

Where are all the good trainers? The best trainers are those whose work speak for itself. Talk to your friends and neighbors who have used a professional's services in training their pet. If they don't know anybody, they should know somebody who comes highly recommended. Check the yellow pages or surf through the internet for companies or individuals that offer the training your dog needs (basic obedience training or specific behavior modification). Research on their rates and find one that gives you the best value for your money.

What do I need to look for in a trainer? More than anything, this person will be handling your dog so make sure that his method of teaching is firm but never violent; kind but always in authority. You can ask for referrals of his past work. To not give you one for whatever reason raises a red flag"all successful trainers will be proud of the examples that will speak for his expertise in the industry. There are no official animal training licenses required by the government but a CDT or CDTA certification received upon graduation of International Association of Canine Professionals are great qualifications to have.

Are individual classes better than group classes? Individual classes ensure your dogs get the undivided attention of the teacher on him. Group classes on the other hand, will be good for the dog's socialization skills. It will also be cheaper for the owners as they get to chip in for the trainer's fees and other expenses. As much as you are able, enroll him in group sessions with dogs whose owners you know take care of their animals. Infections and fleas are not what you want out of your dog's classes.

When should the training commence? As soon as possible! It is best to train puppies while they are still 8 weeks old. However, with patience and perseverance, even dogs can learn obedience commands at any age. If you are ready and your dog is present then anything is possible. Through in home dog training, a well trained dog is not only possible, it is expected. - 32401

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