It is a privilege to be able to work with so many wonderful owners looking to change their relationship with their dogs. I am fully aware that there are endless options, especially in the DFW area, and am honored to be considered! Finding the right dog trainer for you and your goals can be overwhelming but here are some red flags to consider and what to look for instead. This is in no way meant to put down others but to encourage and help owners make the best decision possible and avoid issues in the long run.
Trainer does not charge enough- I hear ya! Board and Train programs are an investment. Do not fall into the trap of looking for something "cheap". You get what you pay for. If a trainer seems to put in the same amount of work as their colleagues but charges significantly less, maybe consider others first or do more investigating. If you're not sure about a trainer that is in your budget, see about scheduling a consultation or doing a private lesson to get to know them better.
Trainer is not transparent - Having a social media presence is becoming more important today than in the past. If that trainer has an Instagram page or Facebook, make sure to follow them! Make sure you know where your dog will be staying, what their daily schedule will be, and how the program will involve you.
Trainer makes guarantees or promises - There are no quick fixes or guarantees in dog training and every dog is different. Behavior is also an evolving aspect over time. There are aspects that we cannot control such as environment, genetics, consistency, relationship, and experiences. If a trainer is guaranteeing certain success, they are not being truthful. A trainer needs to be realistic and prepare the owner for consistency and work after the program.
Trainer does not emphasize the importance of the Go Home session - Pick up day should be the most important day of the program. This is the part where the owner learns everything they need to know to maintain their dog's skills for the rest of their life! If a trainer is being unclear about the day Go Home will be or is not offering a long session at pick up, go elsewhere! A trainer alone cannot fix bad behavior without first teaching the owner.
There is never a need to 'take a chance' on a trainer. You should be fully assured your dog is learning and taken care of while they are away. Make sure a trainer is charging enough for quality work, are transparent, are realistic, truthful, and helpful in preparing you for the best chances of success!
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