Tag: puppy training columbus

Board and Train Columbus

Boarding with Training in Columbus: Our Dog Training Programs

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog training, finding a dog trainer, puppy training dayton

At Dog Dynamix Ohio, we put a lot of effort into ensuring that dogs and their owners achieve the best results through our selection of dog training programs. Our off-leash Board and Train options as well as our Puppy Training programs come with extensive owner counseling after graduation and have evolved over the years to get the greatest results possible.

Our Board and Train is a very popular program for dog owners in Columbus and Dayton looking to get high quality training results for their dogs on an expedited timeline.

We provide a few different Board and Train programs:

Our Ohio dog trainer will teach your dog how to walk properly on a leash, go to their bed (and stay there), come when you call them, behave correctly on field trips to various dog-friendly establishments, parks, trails, and more throughout our three-week off-leash focused training program.

If off-leash training isn’t a goal, we offer a two-week program that focuses on walking nicely on leash around distractions, bed-stay, and basic house manners.

We also off a Dog Bootcamp that aims to treat troublesome behaviors in dogs like aggression, barking at other dogs or people on leash, separation anxiety, fear and phobias, and other issues. The two different stays included in this program allow you to work with your dog halfway through and provide feedback on what needs to be adjusted for the greatest results.

We have a puppy to adult Perfect Puppy Program for puppies that consists of two weeks of on-leash puppy foundation training (name recognition, crate games, beginning leash walking, wait at the door, leave it, confidence building, and handling for grooming), and three weeks of off-leash training when your puppy is at least seven months old.

Finally, we offer a two-week puppy training program that starts puppies off on the right track but does not get into the advanced off leash training when they are older.

So, why choose board and train for dogs?

The biggest benefit of a board and train program may be the amount of time that our experienced Columbus dog trainer can commit to training your dog. In a Board and Train program, your dog’s dog trainer gets the chance to put the training techniques to use every single day. We’ve been doing this for a long time, and our system works (and has been proven via many dogs each year!). While in training, your dog receives repetitions every day as well as deliberate introductions to new dogs, people, and environments intended to serve as distractions.

The daily training for a prolonged length of time can be quite helpful when trying to resolve more serious behavioral difficulties. Due to frequent exposure to long-term triggers, lack of consistency, and the fact that dog owners don’t have the skillset of a dog trainer, things can move more quickly with a trainer than they would at home.

At a specialized training facility, the trainer is also likely to have access to a wider variety of people, dogs, and other significant distractions than you would at your house. It can be quite challenging to locate neutral dogs and people to work with frequently enough to make significant progress if your dog is overly thrilled to meet new people or other dogs. Dog trainers are able to set up your dog for success by using their own well-trained dogs, other dogs in training, dog trainer friends, and coworkers as everyday distractions. One of the most important aspects of dog training—and one that can be the most difficult—is teaching your dog how to behave consistently and securely around people and other dogs. In a dog training setting, socialization does not entail a free-for-all, overly enthusiastic greetings, improper conduct from the new human or dog, or anything else. We manage the atmosphere so that your dog learns how to act in a thoughtful and shrewd manner.

Some of us have very little time for dog training because our everyday lives are so busy, whether it’s because of work, kids, or a mix of things. Board and train programs can assist dog owners teach their dogs effectively on a tight schedule. In most cases, all you need to get ready for a Board and Train program is the food your dog will need for the duration of their stay and their vaccination documents. You don’t have to worry about keeping up with your weekly training “homework” in between appointments because the trainer will handle all the tiresome repetitions. Private Lesson programs are without a doubt a fantastic choice for many people, but if your schedule is already full, adding another commitment may be challenging. Knowing that your dog will receive the necessary training from a trainer you can trust and that all you need to do is pack up their food and drop them off removes your tension.

If you’re heading out of town for vacation, boarding and training programs are a terrific option. A Board and Train program may be the best option for you if you don’t want to board your dog while you’re away on business or vacation in an unstructured way that can create more bad behaviors. If you’re planning a trip and know you’ll need to board your dog, why not take advantage of the chance to combine excellent training with doing so? Your dog will behave better when you return, in addition to being in good hands while you’re away.

Dog Dynamix provides board and train programs for dogs and their owners in Ohio (Dayton and Columbus) and Colorado (including the Denver Metro area).

If you’re interested in our Board and Train Programs, please contact the trainer in your area by visiting their page (which is listed above)!

Puppy Training Program

How to Raise a Puppy

by dogdynamixoh, posted in puppy training, puppy training dayton

I’m raising a few puppies right now. I’ve done a lot of puppy raising over the years, both for breeders and for clients (and, obviously, for myself). When clients are struggling with their own puppies it’s usually pretty easy to guess the root of the problem: too much freedom and attention.

I know, I know… you got a puppy because you wanted a pal. You don’t want to keep them in a box. You took two weeks off of work so you could make every crate experience the puppies own choice and bonded by hanging out on the couch. But now, that two weeks is up and you HAVE to put the puppy in the box… and the puppy isn’t having it. Yikes, what went wrong?

I love my puppies just as much as the next person. But loving them means understanding that what *I* want to do with my puppy isn’t always what is best for them.

If I want my puppy to get used to being in a crate when I’m out of the house, I need to make that a normal part of their life as soon as possible. I feed every meal in the crate, have them spend plenty of time in them both when I am home and when I leave, and I have multiple crates/pens set up around the house so they don’t get too accustomed to a certain environment/amount of activity. My time spent with my puppies is intentional and always directly supervised.

Potty training is also less complicated if you aren’t letting your puppy run around loose all day while you’re home. Baby puppies have baby bladders… and they need to physically mature a bit before they can learn to hold it. Too much freedom in the house means a high risk of accidents, and a more difficult time potty training. Puppies need to go outside regularly and have no opportunities to make a mistake inside. That’s the secret to it. How do you accomplish that? By using a crate, making a schedule, observing your puppy closely, and understanding that any mistakes they DO make are probably human error. With time, physical maturity, and structure, healthy puppies will potty train. But a puppy with too much freedom, no schedule, and inconsistent owners will struggle for much, much longer.

Jumping/biting/counter surfing/stealing household items/etc… don’t let them do that! Again, too much freedom is happening if your puppy is able to jump all over your house guests or run off with a sock. Keeping your puppy on a leash in the house, using your crate when you can’t directly supervise, and making sure all inappropriate items are out of reach when the puppy is out will prevent those normal-puppy-issues from spiraling out of control as they grow.

Puppies are hard. I get it! But they’re WAY harder if you don’t look at restricting their freedom as a temporary (necessary) state of existence. Preventing bad behavior now will save you a LOT of trouble later… do right by your puppy and your family by raising your puppy like a dog trainer would! And if you need help, contact Dog Dynamix Ohio today.

A cat and a dog sit on a place cot in the Dog Dynamix lobby.

5 Tips For Finding Quality Dog Training Near You

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog training, finding a dog trainer

Finding quality dog training nearby can be a challenge. With this guide, you’ll have the tools you need to find the perfect dog training program for you and your dog. Learn 5 easy tips so you can get started with professional dog training in your local area today!

Research Online For Local Dog Training Courses.

The first step in finding a quality dog training course near you is to research online. There are many websites and directories online that list local dog trainers and classes, and every trainer has a social media page for their business these days. Take the time to read reviews from other dog owners and find detailed information about the courses taught by each trainer. This way, you can easily compare programs and choose one that best meets your needs. Things to look out for:

How many dogs are assigned per dog trainer?

Does the trainer accept dogs and puppies of all ages, breeds, and sizes?

What opportunities are there for advancing in training? Does the program have significant follow up opportunities post-graduation?

What is the dog trainers professional experience? Did they mentor under any other dog trainers, and do they regularly attend dog training workshops?

Will the dog trainer send you homework for when the training program ends?

There are all important considerations, and can greatly affect your dogs’ training success rate.

Ask Your Friends, Family and Veterinarian for Advice & Referrals.

Don’t forget to ask your friends, family members and veterinarian for advice and referrals. They may have personal experience with a quality dog training program and can let you know what worked well for them. Pay attention to THEIR dogs’ behavior! If their dog is a bit of an out of control wild-child, maybe don’t press them for a recommendation… but you should absolutely ask dog owners that have calm, polite dogs out in the world and see how they trained their dog! Dog Dynamix Ohio gets a lot of calls that start out as, “I was out and about in town, and I saw this REALLY WELL TRAINED DOG, I just had to ask where they got their dog trained…”. When you reach out to people, be sure to ask about the cost of the program, what type of techniques were taught, and whether or not the instructor was someone they’d recommend or return to. This will help you quickly narrow down your options so you can select the best training program for your pup.

Determine What Type of Program Is Right for You and Your Dog

Before you start your search for the perfect dog training course, it’s important to understand what type of instruction will best serve your pup and your unique needs. Are you looking for an overnight board and train program, an in-person group training class, private lessons, or an online training course? If you have basic training skills mastered but are looking to really push it to the next level, a lot of high quality dog training instructors have content available online for a fee. You can also look into in-person dog training seminars/workshops from highly respected dog trainers traveling through your town. There are so many options these days, so do your research before settling on a dog trainer near you.

Read Reviews Before Putting Down a Deposit.

Knowing the quality of instruction you will be receiving before committing to a dog training program is key. Take some time to read online reviews and talk to people who have had success with any instructors or trainers you are considering. Many cities and towns also have Facebook groups dedicated to pet owners looking for advice on local businesses, including trainers, so don’t forget to take advantage of those resources. Ask around, and see what names regularly get brought up in your community, and why. You should always dig for good reviews and bad reviews, and decide which ones are credible, honest reviews from clients, which are from people who just seem unhappy because of unrealistic expectations, and which reviews might be fake. Just like shopping on Amazon, we need to look at things with a magnifying glass!

Inquire About a Trainer’s Qualifications and Experience.

Before enrolling in any dog training classes or courses, find out what type of qualifications the trainer holds. Is he/she certified by any industry organizations? Is the trainer experienced and educated in modern dog training methods? Have they worked with or under other experienced dog trainers, and if so, for how long? Do they compete in any dog sports? How is their reputation in the local dog training community? Ask as many questions as you need to be sure you’re investing your money in a qualified and ethical trainer that you can trust.

We hope this guide helps you find the best dog trainer near you. With so many options, the choices can seem overwhelming… but following these quick tips should get your pooch on their way to better behavior fast! If you are local to Columbus, Dayton, or Cincinnati, contact us for more information on how we can help you train your dog.

Finn, a daschund puppy from Columbus, Ohio, in training.

Is Hiring a Local Dog Trainer Important?

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog training, finding a dog trainer

The reality is, unlesss you have a real knack for animal behavior and leash handling, most dog owners will need the help of a professional dog trainer in order for them to make fantastic household pets. When the doorbell rings, most dogs will bark. Other dogs will pull hard on leash to visit the neighbor or practice doggy parkour in order to harass the household cat. While barking, jumping, digging, pulling on leash, and chasing prey items are normal canine behaviors, it can be really helpful to get a professional dog trainer on your team to help you figure out how to best live with your dog and avoid problematic behaviors from occuring.

Dog trainers can be extremely beneficial for dogs of all ages who may have a variety of problems, such as fear, aggression, and difficulties learning advanced (or even simple) obedience commands. If you want your dog to join you on off leash adventures, it is critical they are reliably trained under heavy distraction. Dog friendly patios can be a blast… unless your dog spends the entire time barking and trying to visit other patrons. Hiring a dog trainer doesn’t make an owner a failure, nor is it a sign that there is something wrong with the dog. Hiring a dog trainer should be a proactive move made to help better your relationship with your dog.

Finding the pet expert who is best for you is the first step in strengthening the link between owner and dog. Check out this guide on how to get in touch with the best dog trainer for you and your dog.

Dog training can begin at any age. Beginning with a trainer as soon as a new puppy comes home can start them off right; it’s a lot of work raising a puppy, and there is a lot of conflicting information out there! Hiring a puppy trainer can help you learn how to properly socialize your new friend, create an appropriate potty training schedule, and help you deal with pesky, but normal, puppy behaviors such as jumping, biting, and barking in the crate.

Get the tools you need to practice at home. Consider the tools you’ll need to reinforce excellent behavior at home after consulting with a trainer. Learning simple training skills like “sit,” “down,” and “leave it” can be done at home with minimal effort, with just a leash and some yummy dog training treats. You should have a short leash as well as a long leash for practicing coming when called out and about, and a properly fitted collar that won’t slip over your dogs head. A dog kennel helps puppies learn to respect other people’s property and facilitates housebreaking. We love Ruffland Kennels and KBC Kennels for solid crates that will last you years.

While working with a trainer, you can get into the habit of incorporating training exercises into your daily routine with your dog or puppy. Each walk should be spent reinforcing excellent leash manners, rather than teaching your dog to drag you around the park. You can practice leave it during dinner, and work on your bed stay at night while watching TV (while also paying attention to your pup, of course). Every time you let your dog outside to go to the bathroom is a time to practice “wait at the door”. Being consistent and keeping your dogs brain active goes a long way in future good behavior!

In the end, hiring a reputable dog training professional and devoting time to training will help your dog succeed and open up your world to more adventures together. We would love to discuss training options with you if you are local to Ohio or Denver. Our dog trainers specialize in Boarding and Training programs for dogs and puppies.

A Labrador Retriever, a German Shepherd, and a Kelpie all pose for a photo.

Important Considerations When Socializing Your Dog.

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog socialization, dog training, how to socialize a puppy

How to: Socializing your Dog or Puppy (the right way)

There is a important distinction between a ‘social dog,’ and a dog that is ‘dog obsessed.’ 

What people want is a dog that is happy to engage with other dogs and people without dog aggression, or human aggression of any kind. What they actually end up creating can be a different story. 

It seems like the obvious solution is to introduce your dog to as many dogs and people as possible. But, there’s so much more to it! The interaction itself must be a positive experience for your dog! If you see your dog avoiding the dog or person you are trying to introduce them to; If they are attempting to move away, make themselves small, or if you find yourself saying things like, “it’s okay….”, your dog is NOT having a great experience! There are steps you must take to ensure your dog walks away from that interaction thinking, “hey, that was easy.” We don’t want them to be like, “OH MY GOSH, THAT WAS THE BEST THING EVER!!!!” and we also don’t want, “THAT SUCKED… PLEASE, don’t make me do that again.” We want something lukewarm; medium if you will. Let me explain….. 

If we are going for Dog Social:  

 

    • Your dog can see another dog (off in the distance) and take it or leave it. Social dogs don’t get frustrated when they can’t access other dogs, and they don’t drag their owners to get to them.

    • While your dog is engaged with other dogs, they are still aware of you (if you feel like your dog is “blind” to your presence, your dog is not socializing in a healthy way). 

    • When your dog sees a dog friend, they can quickly and easily be brought back under control, even if they are excited initially.  

    • During play, your dog is easy to recall and refocus. 

Dog Neutral: It’s important to note that **most mature dogs fall into this category**. Dog Neutral does not mean unsocialized. 

 

    • Your dog is selective about its dog-friends. It doesn’t always enjoy playing with other new, stranger adult dogs or may have to be introduced in a thoughtful way.

    • Your dog probably grew up with the dogs it likes, and those relationships are friendly and fun. 

    •  It retreats, or growls and postures, when another (stranger adult) dog gets in their face or tries to sniff them.  

    • When stranger dogs try to play, they move away and seem disinterested. 

    • While they don’t enjoy playing with strange dogs, they are able to be near other dogs, or pass other dogs on or off-leash as long they don’t ‘get in their face.’  

 

    • These dogs are usually tolerant of, and willing to play with puppies. 

Think  of how YOU behave in public. Is it appropriate to run up and hug every stranger you see? How about banter (joking around) or wrestling? It doesn’t connote that you are a mean person, it simply shows you are aware of behavioral norms. Some behaviors that were totally acceptable as a child are frowned upon as an adult. The same is true with Dogs. We don’t typically accept overly touchy, clingy, childish behavior from friends. Those are considered Toxic. 

Toxic Dog Behavior 

Stage One Clingon: When your dog sees another dog in the distance it pulls hard on the your leash. You can ‘sometimes’ wrestle them back into compliance. Trying to use treats to control their behavior is  ‘hit or miss’ when trying to refocus. 

Stage Two Clingon: Your dog is pulling so hard on the leash, it compels you to explain your dog’s behavior with “He’s just so excited…” Treats are as useless as your leash. You dog is difficult to refocus until the other dog is far away. 

Stage Three Clingon: While you’re trying to explain how excited your dog is, the other people can’t hear you over your dog’s barking. You can’t reach your treats without losing your leash and your dog. Walking your dog is becoming more of an upper body workout. 

Stage Four Clingon: Seeing another dog in the distance gives YOU anxiety. Taking your dog for a walk is embarrassing. They are basically unaware of your presence in search of other things to interact with. They barely flick an ear at you even if you (repeatedly) call their name. Barking is become unbearable. 

Stage Five Dog Obsessed: The thought of walking your dog gives you pause. Hiding behind trees and cars when you spot another dog in the distance is the norm. You know there’s a problem. Is the Dog Park a solution?  

First, the Dog Park and Dog Daycare is rarely the way to go, as (as counter-intuitive as that may seem), because they can actually facility Cling-on behavior. 

If you notice your dog becoming a Cling-on, the best time to intervene is BEFORE STAGE THREE. Your dog needs proper dog training to retain or mitigate their social behavior. If Cling-on behavior has developed, the goal is to get Dog Neutral. Dog training is helpful, but not miraculous. If you are teetering on stage four or five,  life-long management and mitigation of the dog’s behavior is in order; dog training will *help but may not fix the problem. At that point the dog may struggle to return to Dog Neutral, and Dog Social will likely never be an option. 

Here are some tips for Socializing your Dog 

Focus on long-term doggy relationships (friend, neighbor, and family dogs). Monitor their play and intervene when things appear to be getting too amped. Don’t wait until there is aggressive behavior. Monitor their body language and step in early. If you need additional guidance, follow the Meet and Greet Protocol (Available on our Virtual Academy).  

Avoid meeting strange dogs your dog will never see again.  

Reward your dog for ignoring other dogs on walks. I know…. That doesn’t sound right!? If you want your dog to like other dogs, isn’t ignoring them the opposite? NO, not in dog psychology! Pairing a reward event with the presence of other dogs helps build that positive association, without the adrenaline and cortisol rush,  or the potential for the interaction to go south!  

If you feel like your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, treadmill train, teach them how to tug, and/or hire a dog walker or dog hiker, instead of doggy daycare or dog parks. 

Dog Dynamix Ohio can help you reach your training goals through various dog training program options. We have locations serving Denver, Colorado and Columbus, Ohio, so reach out and let us get your dog on track. 

A small Belgian Malinois puppy trots in the snow towards a dog trainer.

Puppy Training in Dayton: Get Expert Advice Now

by dogdynamixoh, posted in puppy training, puppy training dayton

Looking for Dayton puppy training? Starting off with good puppy training is such an important part of preparing your pup for a lifetime of happiness and adventure. This guide offers expert tips and advice on training your pup in Dayton, OH, so you can set them up for success from the start.

Establish Boundaries and Structure.

Establishing boundaries and setting structure is an important part of puppy training. Consistency and repetition are key to teaching your pup the boundaries and what is acceptable behavior. We always start puppies off with engagement (focus and attention on the handler), name recognition which will help with coming when called later, wait at the door, and leave it, all of which will help you maintain control of your pup in different situations as they advance in their training. Additionally, establishing rules such as ‘no jumping,’ ‘no barking indoors’ or ‘no chewing on furniture’ will help your pup learn what behaviors are acceptable or unacceptable in the home.

Establish a Consistent Routine.

Having a consistent routine when you are training your puppy is key – it helps create clarity for both of you! Once you have designed your puppy’s schedule, stick to it and be as consistent as possible. This will also help you and your pup get into the habit of performing certain commands or behaviors with ease. Consistency helps your pup grow in confidence and makes the training process much easier. The world is not a scary place if it is black and white! Finding a professional dog trainer to help guide you through this process can make a huge difference, as puppies can go through various fear periods throughout their growth.

Begin Socialization and Manners Training.

Socialization and manners training are important aspects of puppy training in Dayton. From an early age, it is important to start teaching your pup how to interact with other people, animals and its environment in a friendly and safe way. This is done by gradually introducing your pup to new sights, sounds, smells, objects and animals. Staying patient as you introduce your pup to new experiences and rewarding good behaviors with treats or verbal praise will help form positive associations for your pup. Taking regular trips to the local park or introducing your pup to pet-friendly businesses are great ways to socialize and teach them good manners, but remember that it is most important that your puppy learn to ignore other dogs and people! Any physical interactions they have with people or other dogs should be well-controlled with those you know and trust.

Potty Training with Positive Reinforcement.

Potty training your puppy is often the most challenging part of the process. However, reinforcing positive behaviors and providing consistent house rules is the key to success in potty training… meaning supervision, supervision, supervision is key here. Practicing a schedule with meal times, play times and bathroom breaks is important for establishing routines. Rewarding your pup when they do their job in the right area with treats or verbal praise will also help them form positive associations and learn good habits. Be patient as you go through this process, as different puppies move at different speeds when it comes to learning! Do not allow your puppy to sneak off and have accident in the house. Make sure you are crate training, using a leash in the house, and not giving your puppy too much freedom too quickly. It will take up to a few months of consistent work, but if you do not allow mistakes inside your puppy WILL potty train!

Introduce New Tasks Gradually and Be Consistent With Commands.

As your puppy gets more and more comfortable with the basics like potty training and house rules, you can start introducing the more complex commands like stay, come, sit and how to walk on a loose leash. Start off by teaching one command at a time in a low distraction environment (like the house or backyard) and keep the overall routine consistent. Don’t push your puppy too quickly by expecting them to perform under higher level distractions or in new, novel places. Use lots of positive reinforcement – in the form of verbal praise or treats – when your pup does a good job, as it will help solidify their understanding of that particular command. Remember to go slow – Rome wasn’t built in a day – and have patience as you introduce new tasks to your pup!

If you are located in Ohio and need help with Dayton puppy training or Columbus puppy training, please reach out. We have puppy programs designed to help you navigate this critical period in your life; we are experts in puppy obedience training, on and off leash training, socialization, focus and attention, potty training, crate training, house manners, and more.

A border heeler enjoying swimming time at an Ohio pond

Training Tips From Experienced Dog Trainers in Columbus

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog socialization, dog training, puppy training

Dog training in Columbus is an important part of dog ownership! Dog training helps your dog learn good habits and live a more fulfilled life. Whether you’re looking for basic obedience training or more advanced off leash dog training, local trainers near you can help guide your pup on the path to becoming a well-behaved companion.

Start With the Basics.

Before you move on to more complex skills, take time to really focus on the basics: name recognition, wait at the door, sit and down. Then, you can start more advanced skills such as walking on leash without pulling, coming when called, and stay. If your pup isn’t yet obedience trained, then it’s really important to start by teaching him foundational commands that serve as the building blocks for more advanced commands later on. Skipping out on important basics will make things much harder when your dog has developed bad habits!

Use a Positive Reinforcement-Based Training System.

Understanding and appropriately applying all four quadrants of learning is key when trying to teach advanced dog training cues. Positive reinforcement should be the building blocks set when it comes to successfully training your pup. Experienced dog trainers in Columbus know how to use all quadrants of learning properly, but should always teach using positive reinforcement, only layering over positive punishment to skills that your dog knows and understands. Dog Dynamix Ohio is well-versed in (and very passionate about) balanced dog training, which begins by using a liberal foundation of positive reinforcement, then uses negative reinforcement, negative punishment, and positive punishment as your dog progresses in their training.

Create Realistic Goals for Your Dog’s Training Progress

Creating realistic goals will help you and your pup progress in a timely manner. It is important to remember that teaching your dog or puppy new commands can take time, so don’t be discouraged if it takes your pup longer than expected. Overloading your dog with more tasks when they are not ready for them has the potential to make them confused or frustrated. So, start off with simple commands, master them in areas of low distraction, and then gradually increase the distance, distraction, and duration of the tasks as they get better.

Practice Your Training During Walks and Other Activities.

Walks, playtime and other day-to-day activities are major opportunities for practicing your dog’s training. For example, instead of just letting your pup run free at the park, try asking them to “sit” or “down” for their favorite toy, and then throw the toy when they do so. If you’re taking a hike, practice “place” on tree stumps, and work on coming when called (on a long line, of course!). Inserting training drills in your every day life not only keeps things interesting but helps your do anticipate their obedience commands anywhere and anytime.

Dog Trainer Shaina Zimmerman at the 2022 NARA National Championship

How to Find the Best Dog Training Near Me

by dogdynamixoh, posted in dog socialization, dog training, finding a dog trainer

Searching for a qualified dog trainer near you?

Whether you’re new to dog training or want to advance your pup’s current obedience skillset, finding the right person for the job can be an overwhelming task. This guide will help you find the perfect local dog trainer for you and your dog.

Research Different Training Options and Techniques.

Before you choose a local dog trainer, it’s important to learn about the different techniques and methods used in dog training. This can help you make an informed decision about which technique works best for your pup and lifestyle. Consider the differences between balanced dog training, traditional dog training, and force free dog training and the limitations of each option. You should also have a basic understanding of various training program options; cost and benefits will vary drastically between boarding and training programs, private dog training lessons, in home dog training, and group dog obedience classes. It’s also very important to research the qualifications of any potential trainers to ensure they have the experience and credibility needed to be successful.

Ask Friends, Family or Veterinarians for Recommendations.

A great way to find the best dog trainers near you is by asking around. Talk to your family and friends who live nearby to see if they have any advice. Or you can ask your veterinarian or other local animal professionals for recommendations. Their is SO much power in word-of-mouth recommendations – asking around can help you gain significant personal insights into the performance (or shortcomings) of a specific trainer.

Check Reviews of Potential Trainers Online.

It’s always a good idea to do your research online before settling on a trainer. Visit the websites of potential trainers and read their reviews. Also, search for their business names on social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram where you can get a more detailed look at their qualifications and reputation, and where you should be able to see the dog trainer working with client dogs or dog owners in video format. Finally, ask on forums or other dog-related communities to get insights from other owners who have worked with them in the past.

Consider Your Dog’s Needs and Your Budget When Making a Decision

When selecting a dog trainer, be sure to consider both your pet’s needs and your budget. Some trainers specialize in certain breeds or ages (for example, some trainers specialize in puppies, while others may take on more aggression cases), and others may work with all types of dogs. Additionally, some program types are more affordable than others. Once you have narrowed down your choices based on these criteria, contact the trainers you are considering to make sure they are available and find out more about their methods and experience.

Choosing a dog trainer can be a difficult task, but hopefully these tips make it easier for you! If you are looking for a Dayton Dog Trainer or a Columbus Boarding and Training professional, contact us for more information today. We’d love to help you on your dog training journey with your pup.