Questions to Ask when Searching for a Trainer

The inside scoop on how to narrow down your trainer search 

Looking for the right dog trainer and coach can be an intimidating challenge. It's important to discover someone who you can trust to support your dog and your family.

​I've got you covered! I've put together some essential questions to ask prospective trainers and coaches that will give you an idea of whether you'll be a good fit for one another.

You might be wondering why I, as a trainer and coach, am sharing this with you. Because there is only so much time in the day and so many family and dogs I can help. I won't be the best match for everyone so I want to provide you with guidance on how to filter through all the options available out there. 

Additionally, I'll share some warning signs and red flags that could indicate it's time to keep searching for a better match. You can find even more red flags in my last blog post. At my core, I believe in helping you and your pup achieve a happy and deep relationship through finding the best support for you and your family!

Keep reading

Key Questions to Ask

Here are six enlightening questions you should ask any potential dog trainer to gain insight into their training and coaching style.

What tools and products do you use during training?

Every trainer has their own preferred set of tools and products. It's important to know what these are and how they would be used in training your dog so you can be sure you are comfortable with them.

RED FLAG: Be cautious if a trainer requires specific tools without knowing the dog, the case, or your feelings about the tools. Also, be wary if they jump straight to aversive tools to control the dog or if they don't show curiosity about what you are comfortable with.

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What certifications, credentials, or continuing education do you have?

While not strictly required, any certifications or credentials a trainer has can indicate their dedication to staying up-to-date with the latest in dog behavior science and studies.

RED FLAG: A lack of certifications or credentials could suggest that the trainer doesn't keep up with the ever-changing science and studies in the field.

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How often should I work with my dog and how long does the training usually take?

When it comes to training and behavior change, there are many variables at play and behavior is fluid so any set timeline or guarantee around how long the process will take is unreasonable, especially before knowing the case, your goals, or your expectations. 

RED FLAG: Having a set timeline without knowing the case, guarantees of specific behavior changes, or specific requirements for training frequency without consideration for your goals, lifestyle, and expectations are all red flags to watch out for.

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How can I connect with you to ask questions or get support between sessions?

Supportive trainers will make themselves reasonably available to answer any questions or provide support between sessions because there is so much that can happen or needs tweaking regularly. Management should also be a priority for times when you are not actively working with your dog.

RED FLAG: If communication is limited to happening during sessions only, this could be a red flag. Good support should be reasonably available between sessions, though still with healthy boundaries and clear expectations.

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Are you willing and able to work with my dog's Vet (and other professionals on the support team)?

Collaboration with other professionals, especially your dog's vet, is extremely important in maintaining the health and wellbeing of your pet during training.

RED FLAG: Behavior experts should be ready to shift and pivot at any point in the process. Look for willingness to reach out for help and veterinary visit recommendations should be high on the list of early or next steps.

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If I'm not seeing behavior changes or feel stuck in the process, what should I do next?

It's important to have a plan of action if the training doesn't seem to be working or if you feel stuck. Willingness to adapt and seek help is a good sign.

RED FLAG: Unwillingness to connect with other professionals, particularly your pet's vet, should warrant extra curiosity as to why this might be the case.

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For more information on how to choose a qualified trainer and coach for your dog and family, you can read more on my last blog post, all about: Trainer Red and Green Flags

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