When you are thinking about going to a Dog Behaviourist Near Me, make sure you hire a dog behaviourist who meets the following conditions.
They are a Certified Professional Dog Trainer:
It is important to check for certification as they provide proof that the training is done in accordance with a code of ethics and standards. It allows you to know that they are qualified and experienced trainers who practice safely.
They do not use any harsh methods:
A dog behaviourist should be gentle when working with your dog, using reward-based techniques like positive reinforcement rather than punishment.
They do not recommend the use of shock collars:
A dog behaviorist should never recommend using a shock collar or controlling your dog with any other type of training equipment. You do not want to hire a dog behaviourist who will use these techniques on your dog.
They respect the client’s wishes:
A good dog trainer should work with you to find a plan that meets your needs, rather than just imposing their own methods by forcing compliance. If they are unwilling to consider your opinions or input, then they are not the right choice.
They do not label the dog as ‘dominant’ or try to change their breed:
A good Dog Behaviourist will not classify your dog as dominant simply because of his size, energy level, or breed. They will also respect that you are the owner and accept that what works for some dogs may not work for others.
They do not recommend euthanasia:
A qualified dog trainer should never recommend euthanasia as a result of bad behavior. They should advise you on how to deal with the problem and work on training your dog.
They do not sell you treats or equipment:
A Dog Behaviourist in your area should never try and convince you to buy their own products or treat your dog in a certain way in order to train them. A professional trainer will rely on proven methods, not gimmicks.
Do the above guidelines mean that all qualified dog trainers out there are offering a good service? Unfortunately no. But these guidelines will give you a place to start looking for a Dog Behaviourist Near Me who truly understands how dogs think, learn, and communicate with their human pack members. If you want to find these services, a good place to start is by asking your veterinarian for their list of preferred dog trainers in your area.
