Too many dogs are given up after their normal, easily modifiable behaviors are allowed to become problems. But it doesn't have to be this way. To prevent your dog from becoming a sad statistic, take your dog and your family to a professional dog training class. A good training class is a fun, social activity that helps your dog become a well-behaved, safe and valued family member. This information will help you find the dog trainer and class environment that best fits your budget and needs.

Why is training my dog a necessity?

As a dog owner, one of the first questions you may ask is, "Does my new companion need training?". Yes, and so do you! Whether you are intentionally teaching him or not, your canine friend is always learning and this is true not just for puppies but also for older, adult dogs. If you do not teach your pet your rules, he will invent his own. Training allows caregivers to safely and humanely control their dog's behavior. Positive training enhances the bond between dog and owner and helps ensure that your dog will respond happily to your instructions.

What should I look for in a trainer?

It's essential that the dog trainer you select uses humane training techniques that encourage appropriate behavior through such positive reinforcement as food, attention, play, or praise. Look for a trainer who ignores undesirable responses or withholds rewards until the dog behaves appropriately. Training techniques should never involve yelling, choking/hanging, shaking the scruff, alpha rolling (forcing the dog onto his back), shock collars or other actions that frighten or inflict pain. Look for a trainer with credentials, experience and competes and/or demos with his/her own dogs.

Where can I find a trainer?

A recommendation from a friend, neighbor, veterinarian, humane society, boarding kennel or groomer is a good place to start. You can also check the Yellow Pages under "Pet Training." Don't assume that a trainer's "membership" in a dog training association qualifies him/her as a suitable instructor. Not all associations' membership criteria will meet your expectations and someone with no experience or credentials can pay dues and become a member of any organization. Always ask for credentials.

What exactly is a "Certified" Dog Trainer?

Many schools teach dog trainers and offer certification for their specific programs, thus the word "Certified" appears. These certificates, however, reflect only the teachings and quality of a specific school. Other organizations offer take-home tests for certification. These tests are not monitored, nor are the testing processes standardized.

What is a "CPDT"?

The Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) program is an internationally recognized certification program for professional dog trainers. A trainer who has received the CPDT credential has met eligibility requirements and has successfully demonstrated his/her knowledge by passing the certification exam. Knowledge of dog behavior and application of training techniques are assessed in the following content areas:

• Learning Theory
• Instruction Skills
• Husbandry
• Ethology
• Equipment

The Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers is the first national certification program for dog trainers. Rigorous testing and recertification systems provide dog owners with information to help you make an informed choice when selecting a dog trainer.

Certified Pet Dog Trainers (CPDT's) maintain their credentials through continuing education by attending workshops, conferences and hands-on seminars for professional dog trainers. This continuing education requirement ensures that CPDT's are knowledgeable about the most current thinking, research and techniques in the field. There are CPDT's all over the United States and in countries outside the U.S.

To locate a CPDT in your area, visit the following website: The Association of Pet Dog Trainers at www.apdt.com.

Who can use the professional title "Animal Behaviorist"?

At present, there is no licensure for this title so anyone can call themselves an animal behaviorist with no training or experience in the field. Always ask for credentials.

When using the terms "applied animal behaviorist" or "animal behaviorist" professionals are now referring to people who have graduate degrees in animal behavior. The general approach in education would be to earn a BA/BS in either biology, zoology or psychology and then an M.S. or Ph.D. in Animal Behavior. There are many graduate programs in animal behavior in nearly every part of the country. These may be in Biology, Psychology, Ethology or another department. While few of them will offer specific courses or opportunities in companion animal behavior, they will provide the broad basic background needed in animal behavior principles, including Learning Theory, Comparative Psychology, Ethology, Experimental Psychology and Physiology.

Which is better? Private Training, Group Training or Campus Training?

It all depends on you and your dog's specific needs. All three are available options. There are pros and cons with all forms of training. Choose what's right for you.

Dogs with "issues" such as dog to dog aggression or dog to human aggression would not be suitable for group instruction, therefore making private training the only option at first. Private lessons offer valuable one on one, individualized training and can be customized to the training and/or behavior issues that are most important to you. They are also more convenient, giving you flexibility rather than attending scheduled classes. Even with private lessons, distractions and socialization are recommended to shift the context of the training. Your dog may be well trained at home but what happens when you leave your house? Private lessons are more expensive than group classes.

Group classes offer the socialization and human/canine distractions that all dogs require in order to be considered "trained". Group classes can help owners learn by observing other people interacting with their dogs and benefit from the camaraderie. Group classes are less expensive than private lessons. Group classes teach you to be the dog trainer! A disadvantage to group classes are that it's sometimes harder to train your dog in an atmosphere filled with distractions. But once your dog is trained in a group setting - your dog is TRAINED!

Campus training offers a professional trainer training your dog when your time is limited with today's hectic schedules and lifestyles. The only disadvantage of campus training is that the dog may respond well for the experienced trainer but may not transfer what he/she has learned to you and your family.

When possible, all family members should participate in the dog's training. By learning to communicate humanely and effectively with their canine friend, they will develop bonds that will form the basis of the entire relationship.

What should I seek in a group class?

Ask the trainer whether you can observe a class in session before signing up. Watch for the following:

• Is class size limited to allow for individual attention?
• Are there separate classes for puppies and adult dogs?
• Are there different class levels (for example, beginner, intermediate and advanced)?
• Are training equipment and methods humane?
• Does the trainer use a variety of methods to meet dogs' individual needs?
• Are vaccinations required?
• Are the students, both human and canine, enjoying themselves?
• Are dogs and owners actively encouraged?
• Is praise given frequently?
• Are voice commands given in upbeat tones?
• Are lesson handouts available?
• Is information available on how dogs learn, basic grooming, problem solving and related topics?

What's the best age for training?

Dogs of all ages can benefit from training. Dogs between 9 and 18 weeks of age should be enrolled in puppy classes. Regular classes are appropriate for dogs five months or older.

After you have selected a training program:

• Have your dog examined by your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy, free from parasites and up-to-date on vaccinations.
• Don't feed your dog a large meal before class because many trainers rely on food treats to encourage or reward desired behavior.
• Bring the training equipment recommended by the trainer.
• Practice between classes with brief lessons that end on a positive note.

By enrolling and actively participating in a dog training class, you will help your dog become not just a well-behaved member of your family, but also a safer member of your community.

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."