Training and Behaviour
There are any number of training clubs and individual trainers. There are also various versions of behaviourists. Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer and set up in business.
There are also professional bodies which require their members to adhere to well thought out rules of conduct.
In the UK there is the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists (UKRCB) and Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
In the US there is the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI).
In Canada there is the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers(CAPPDT).
In Australia there is the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (AAPDT).
Trainers/Behaviourists
There are any number of training clubs and individual trainers. There are also various versions of behaviourists. Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer and set up in business.
There are also professional bodies which require their members to adhere to well thought out rules of conduct.
In the UK there is the UK Registry of Canine Behaviourists (UKRCB) and Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT).
In the US there is the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and the National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI).
In Canada there is the Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers(CAPPDT).
In Australia there is the Australian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (AAPDT).
Trainers/Behaviourists
Catherine O’Driscoll says, "I once took two of my dogs to training classes given by an ex police dog handler. I noticed that whenever he walked past any of the dogs, they cringed away from him. Then he took my dog and used her as a demonstration model, and she was terrified. I left."
There’s nothing more powerful than following your own inner voice. If you or your dog feel intimidated and controlled in a training class, listen to your own inner voice. If you want to walk away, you are free to do so. You will find another experienced dog trainer or behaviourist who can help you to socialise your dog and make it fun.
Think about what you want from the experience - for you and your dog. For example, there's no point in going to a competitive obedience class if all you want is basic obedience.
There are different viewpoints on dog behaviour and training, and therefore different approaches to training. Some trainers or behaviourists work on the principle that a dog will do anything for you if he understands what’s needed and is shown how in a positive way. Others believe that you need to be tough with a dog, and show him who’s boss.
Why not share your world with your dogs and seek out a trainer who allows them to cooperate with you, rather than one who is aggressive or domineering towards your dogs.
If a trainer or behaviourist is qualified and registered with a professional body, you can be fairly sure that they meet a certain standard which you can be happy with. However, this doesn’t mean that a trainer who hasn’t registered with these bodies won’t be brilliant. Sometimes rebels do things their own way, without seeking approval from organised bodies. And sometimes people with loads of qualifications somehow fail to have empathy and natural talent.
It’s often useful to have a recommendation from someone who has been to classes. You can attend the first time without your dog to see if they match up to what you want for you and your dog.
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