Tuesday, April 9, 2013

The 5 Questions You Ask Before Availing In Home Dog Training

By Geraldine Dimarco


There is nothing worse that rushing to get dressed for the office and finding your good pair of shoes all chewed up. Unless of course, its coming home to find pee puddles and poop hills all around your living room. And when was the last time you had friends over without them being attacked or slobbered by your unruly pet? If you have had it with doggie nightmares, then maybe its time to call in the experts in dog training.

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.

At what level of obedience is your dog? If your canine is already moderately well-mannered, this means that you have been at least a little bit successful in dog training. You may want to continue in this. However, if you believe you are not qualified to teach him anything, then you should call in the experts as soon as you can.

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 training begin? Right away! Ideally, training puppies should begin as early as 8 weeks old. However, you can always teach an old dog new tricks. If you are prepared, your dog is in attendance, and you have a competent trainer, then sky's the limit! Through in home dog training, you can have a trained dog the safe and convenient way.




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