Online, in-person? Group classes or 1-2-1s? Inside or out? Thought picking a trainer was easy, think again!
First things first, what do you want to get out of your training? Do you have a new puppy who needs to learn to focus on you around other dogs, or do you have a rescue that you want to build a bond with? Whilst nearly all trainers will say they can help you, it is much better to have a clear idea of what you want to get out of your sessions and search for a trainer with that in mind.
Have a friend with a dog that you admire the behaviour of? Ask them where they train, or who helps them. Ask locally for recommendations and see who's name comes up time and time again.
Thirdly give up the trainer, not the training. Sometimes, just sometimes you'll pick the wrong trainer. Their methods wont work for you, or the environment doesn't feel right. If it doesn't feel right for you and your dog don't be afraid to walk away. Training your dog should be about what works for you both, if you're miserable stood out in a field in the rain, or your dog is over their threshold in a village hall- take a moment to reset and evaluate if this is the right trainer for you.
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