How to Find a Good Dog Trainer
A good dog trainer uses reward-based methods, explains what they're doing and why, includes you in the training, and doesn't promise guaranteed results. Look for a recognized certification, ask how they'd handle a mistake, and watch a session before you commit if you can.
That matters because dog training isn't regulated in the US. Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, with or without education, experience or certification. Here's how to tell the difference.
Step 1: Decide what kind of help your dog needs
Different problems need different professionals.
| Your situation | Who to look for |
|---|---|
| New puppy, basic manners, loose leash walking | A dog trainer offering puppy or group classes, or private lessons |
| Pulling, jumping, barking at the door | A dog trainer, group or private |
| Reactivity (barking and lunging at dogs or people) | A trainer with reactivity experience, usually private lessons first |
| Fear, anxiety, separation problems | A certified behavior consultant |
| Aggression or a dog who has bitten | Your vet first, then a certified behavior consultant or a veterinary behaviorist |
| Service dog tasks | A trainer who specializes in service dog training |
If you're unsure, start with a private consultation. A good trainer will tell you if your dog needs someone with more specialized skills.
Step 2: Check credentials
Certification isn't required, but it shows a trainer has passed an exam, logged hands-on hours and signed up to a code of ethics. Common ones in the US:
- CPDT-KA, CPDT-KSA (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers): certified professional dog trainer, by exam and experience
- CBCC-KA (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers): certified behavior consultant for dogs
- IAABC certified members (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants): behavior consultants assessed by a panel
- KPA CTP (Karen Pryor Academy): graduates of a reward-based training program
- DACVB (American College of Veterinary Behaviorists): a veterinarian who is board-certified in behavior; the right choice for serious aggression or anxiety, and able to prescribe medication
A trainer without letters after their name can still be very good, especially if they're working toward a certification or learning under someone who has one. Just ask what training and experience they have, and how they keep learning.
Step 3: Ask about their methods
This is the most important question. Veterinary behavior experts recommend reward-based training for all dogs and advise against methods that rely on pain, fear or intimidation. There's no evidence that harsh methods work better, and they carry real risks, including more fear and aggression.
Good signs:
- They use food, toys, play and praise to reward the behavior they want
- They can explain what they'll do when your dog gets it wrong, and the answer isn't a correction or a punishment
- They talk about your dog's emotions and body language
- They break skills into small steps
Step 4: Ask these questions before you book
- What training methods do you use, and what happens when my dog gets it wrong?
- What equipment do you use or recommend?
- What certifications or training do you have, and how do you keep learning?
- Have you worked with dogs like mine (breed, age, the specific problem)?
- Will I be part of the training? How much homework is there?
- What does a typical session look like? Can I watch a class first?
- How do you measure progress, and what happens if we're not making any?
- What do you charge, and what's included? (See typical prices in our dog training cost guide.)
- Do you have insurance, and can you share reviews or references?
- For board and train: Can I visit or get daily updates, and how many handover lessons are included?
Red flags to watch for
- Talk of "dominance," being "alpha" or "pack leader." These ideas are outdated and often used to justify harsh handling.
- Physical corrections like leash pops, alpha rolls, pinning or hitting.
- Prong, choke or shock collars as a standard part of training.
- Guaranteed results. Behavior can't be guaranteed. Honest trainers talk about likely progress, not promises.
- Won't let you watch, or won't explain what happens to your dog during training.
- Your dog seems scared of the trainer, or shuts down during sessions.
- No questions about your dog's health or history before suggesting a plan.
Step 5: Watch a session and trust what you see
If you can, watch a class or the start of a session before you sign up. Look at the dogs, not just the trainer. Dogs who are learning well tend to look loose, curious and engaged. Dogs who are cowering, avoiding the trainer or shutting down are telling you something.
After a session, you should come away knowing what to practice and why. If you feel confused, rushed or uncomfortable with how your dog was handled, it's fine to stop and find someone else.
How to compare trainers on Find a Dog Trainer
Every trainer profile shows the services they offer, where they train (in your home, at a facility or online), and any prices they publish. Use the filters to narrow by training type, like puppy classes, reactive dogs or board and train, and read reviews from other owners before you get in touch.