How to Select a Dog Trainer- A Guide to Understanding Dog Training Theory and Styles

“The Pack Leader” Philosophy (Domination Theory)

The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) has issued a formal Position Statement about Domination Theory. “This type of training assumes that animals misbehave because they are seeking a higher rank in the pack. This often leads trainers to believe that force must be used to modify the undesirable behaviors. People who rely on Dominance Theory to train their pets may need to regularly threaten them with aggressive displays or repeated use of physical force. Conversely, pets subjected to threats or force may not offer submissive behaviors. Instead, they may react with aggression, not because they are trying to be dominant but because the human threatening them makes them afraid.”

Trainers who use Domination Theory typically use catch phrases such as: “Be the Pack Leader”, “Show the Dog Who’s Boss” and “Dominate the Dog for Respect”.”Because the use of punishment can exacerbate problem behaviors by increasing an animal’s fear and anxiety, the AVSAB recommends that veterinarians not refer clients to trainers or behavior consultants who coach and advocate dominance theory and the subsequent confrontational training that follows from it.”

Positive Reinforcement

Positive Reinforcement theory is a reward-based training theory. “The AVSAB endorses this theory which allows the dog to work for things (food, play, attention, etc.) that motivate them rather than techniques which focus on using fear or pain to punish them for undesirable behaviors.”

The dog offers desirable behaviors because something good happens to him (your praise or attention, treats, etc.) when he does. Simply put, you reward behaviors you like and ignore behaviors you don’t like.

Dogs naturally repeat behaviors that they find rewarding and typically self-extinguish behaviors that are not rewarding.

Are you still the dog’s leader? Yes! True leaders don’t have to dominate to gain respect; they are followed BECAUSE they respected and admired by the animal. Every dog needs guidance and boundaries. As his leader, you provide clear direction for the dog, in language HE understands. Once your dog understands what’s expected of him, he will offer the desired behaviors because he wants to please you…not because he’s afraid of you.

Selecting a Dog Trainer

The AVSAB states that, “choosing a dog trainer can be one of the most important decisions that you can make in your dog’s life. The techniques that a trainer uses can strongly affect how you interact with your dog for years to come. Training should be a fun experience for both you and your dog.”

Many trainers claim they are Positive Reinforcement trainers when in fact they are not. Some trainers use a combination of Dominance (Pack Leader) Theory and Positive Reinforcement Theory. They may refer to themselves as “Balanced” trainers. It’s important to note that this is not a recognized training theory.

When interviewing a potential trainer, ask probing questions which require a detailed response. For example, if you tell a trainer that your dog is dragging you down the street or growling at you when he’s on your bed, ask them what methods they would use to correct the problem and listen carefully to their response. Ask questions if you don’t understand the trainer’s response. The AVSAB warns you to “Avoid any trainer who advocates methods of physical force and punishment.”

Additional questions you may want to ask include:

How will you motivate my dog to teach him something new?
How will you motivate my dog to change a problem behavior?
What tools do you recommend and use to stop dogs from jumping or pulling on-leash?
What tools do you use and recommend to treat aggressive behaviors such as growling or biting?
How will you correct or punish my dog if he needs it?

Education and Certification

Most people don’t realize that there is no regulatory requirement or licensing for dog trainers. Anyone can hang a shingle that they are a dog trainer. Buyer beware! Significant damage can be done to your pet if he is misdiagnosed or trained improperly.

While there are numerous “certifications” available for dog trainers, these only “certify” that an individual attended a program. They do not “certify” or validate capability, skill, experience or education.

There is only one, nationally accredited body that requires and certifies education, skill and experience- The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT). To achieve this certification and even sit for the exam, applicants must already have the required education, skill and 300 hours of documented training experience.

Additionally, a veterinarian must sponsor them. Applicants must pass an independent, CPDT issued, knowledge-based, written exam and a hands-on training exam.

Locate a Certified CPDT Trainer

Individuals are certified, not companies. To locate a certified, CPDT trainer, obtain the trainer’s first and last name and the city in which he or she resides. Then go to: https://www.ccpdt.org to see if they are listed as a certified, CPDT trainer or certified dog behavior consultant.

Don’t take chances with your pet’s education, hire a CPDT trainer!

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