Training a dog requires a lot of time, energy and patience but not everyone is able to devote this kind of time to their dog. If they want a safe and well adjusted dog then for some people the answer may be to outsource this training to a professional.
You should be aware that training philosophy, quality and cost may vary from professional to professional so you should determine yours and your dog’s needs first.
In some areas training is offered on a weekly basis by volunteers in parks and shelters, on the other hand training can cost $100 or more per session. It is up to you to decide what you think constitutes a reasonable fee for the length and type of program that you want.
Training programs vary some are offered on a weekly basis and some more frequently. You may have to be involved in the training or leave your dog and pick it up later. You may find that most will suggest that you spend at least some time each day training your dog. A lot depends on your other commitments but in the early days of training dogs need around an hour a day in order to learn.
Some owners prefer to send their dog to a special facility for several weeks for a training program. Training is regular and intensive at these ‘boot camps’. You may be required to participate towards the end of the program so that the dog’s obedience to the trainer is transferred to you. The results of such programs are often amazing and your dog will be well disciplined and eager to do as it is told yet still happy to play with enthusiasm.
You should be clear on what you want, to you simply want to increase obedience and reduce destructive behavior or do you want a dog that you can enter into shows? Whatever you decide it will require training on a regular basis, what this training will be and how long it will take is determined by your dog’s breed and its temperament.
Some dogs are over assertive and always striving to be pack leader while others are more inclined to be submissive. The type of training you choose depends on how you want to influence your dog and what behavior you deem appropriate. No matter what your goals are you should choose a trainer who appears to have plenty of patience and energy along with a deep love of dogs.
In addition to the above you will want a trainer whose philosophy is similar to yours. Some trainers insist that owners, as well as dogs need training. Some trainers have a laid back, hands on style while others lean towards a military style of training, most will fall somewhere between these two extremes.
It is rare that one style of training will suit every dog and its owner, nevertheless there are some commonly agreed principles such as patience, persistence, consistency and the need for human leadership among other things.
Shop around for a trainer and ask people you trust if they can recommend one. It may be that you will need to change trainers a couple of time before you find one that suits your needs. Bear in mind however, that dogs need consistency and a secure environment if they are to learn what is required of them.
