Monday, January 7, 2013

In Home Dog Training For The Busy And Loving Dog Owner

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 don?t 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 dog?s 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.

How high up the obedience ladder is your dog? If your pet knows the basic commands down, then you should consider training him yourself. The owner is always the best person to teach his own. However, if you really don't know the first thing about dog training or have no chance to do so, then have the professionals take a look at what can be done to Fido as soon as possible.

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.

Which should I choose: individual or group classes? Individual classes are always advisable because your pet gets the complete focus of the teacher. However, group classes are a good alternative also because your dog will get to develop his social skills as he interacts with others of his own kind. It will also be easier on the pocket to share the trainer's rates and other fees. Make sure that the group of dogs your pet is included in are healthy and vaccinated.

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.




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