Whether it’s for reasons like learning agility training, either for fun or competition, or simply to help an out-of-control dog learn how to behave better or execute simple commands, more pet owners are considering hiring a professional dog trainer. instead of trying to train him. their own dogs.

Here are some pros and cons to consider before hiring a professional dog trainer:

The advantages of hiring dog trainers

1. Professional knowledge of how dogs think, feel, and act is the number one advantage of hiring a dog trainer, whether it’s teaching your dog basic commands or turning your dog into an extremely well-trained pet, or even a dog. award-winning show animal. .

2. In addition to the peace of mind that your beloved pet is being properly trained, hiring a trainer is a great alternative if you can’t provide the consistency or level of physical activity needed to successfully train your dog.

3. Using a dog trainer gives you the option of hiring one to do private home visits, which is helpful for dogs that may not have been properly socialized or don’t appreciate being around other animals. Alternatively, many trainers hold group sessions or classes and allow owners to participate and learn as well.

The Cons of Hiring Dog Trainers

1. The first negative aspect of hiring a dog trainer to consider is the cost involved. Although many trainers offer very reasonable rates and services, there are also some that are quite expensive, but will nevertheless provide excellent results.

2. The second scam to hiring dog trainers would be simply finding the time available to make appointments. Some trainers will come to the house, while others will wait for you to travel to them, and while most tend to have flexible hours to accommodate those who work or have hectic schedules, many still find it difficult to find the time off that dog needs professional. will require training.

3. In some cases, a dog just doesn’t respond well to being trained by someone other than his trusted owner. In this case, instead of “forcing” the dog to participate in training sessions or become distressed, it is better to try to address the problems yourself, albeit with the guidance of a trained professional. There are many dog ​​trainers out there who provide helpful training advice and tips for a fee, but without actually being with the animal. Also, the Internet, the library, the humane society, or the local animal shelter should have helpful information on the various methods and aspects of dog training.

Regardless of whether you have decided to train your dog yourself, or have chosen to hire a professional dog trainer, the most important part to remember is how the dog responds to training. Do they seem to enjoy it or do they seem agitated and out of it? Are they capable of performing the tasks expected of them in the training sessions or do they seem intimidated and fearful?

Training should always be a positive experience for your dog, giving him a physical outlet to keep him fit and healthy, but also giving him mental stimulation.