Over the last year there has been a marked increase in people getting puppies – from September I had to put on 3 extra puppy classes, and could have easily put more on.

This has led me to thinking – how does a first time dog owner choose where to take their puppy for training?  This is probably one of the most important decisions they will make for their puppy and if they get it wrong it can have a lasting negative effect, possibly for the rest of the dog’s life.

Chances are they will ask family, friends, people they meet while out on a dog walk, and now-a-days ask for recommendations via social media.  But how can they be sure the trainer is using positive, science based training methods that work, in an unregulated industry?

Yes, unfortunately, dog training is unregulated.

Checking the trainer’s ‘credentials’ is one way – but what do they actually mean, if anything – after all, there is an online dog behaviour and training course available for £19!

Look out for ‘proper’ dog training qualifications  – such as National Open College Network,  Degree (FdSc, BSc (hons)), MSc etc.

Membership of a professional dog training organisation – there are numerous organisations that a dog trainer can become a member of; some just require an annual fee to become a member, and others require the trainer to prove their competence in order to become an accredited member – this includes in-depth theoretical and practical assessments.  Professional dog training organisations will also have a code of practice their trainers must adhere to.

The new Dog Behaviour Charter does go some way to reassure dog owners the trainer they have chosen has been checked and monitored by a reputable accrediting member organisation, so you can be sure the trainer is professional, providing a professional service, with professional conduct, standards, tools and methodologies.

As an accredited Kennel Club Instructor,  a Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT UK), Animal Behaviour & Training Council (ABTC) Registered Animal Training Instructor (as well as having a foundation degree and a BSc (hons) in Dog Training and Behaviour), I am proud to be able to display The Dog Behaviour Charter symbol.

Resources:

The Dog Behaviour Charter: https://ukdogcharter.org/

APDT UK: https://apdt.co.uk/

APDT – find a trainer: https://apdt.co.uk/find-a-trainer/

Animal Behaviour & Training Council: https://www.abtc.org.uk/