Dog training 101: How to hire the right pro for your pup

If “man’s best friend” has turned into your worst nightmare—shredding your sofa cushions, jumping all over Grandma, or attempting to dart into traffic—they might be in desperate need of dog training. Dogs that haven’t been properly trained can be a hazard to themselves, humans, and other animals. 

Almost every pooch can benefit from some type of dog training (even if they’re not destined to be a service dog or therapy dog). When you have a puppy who needs basic obedience-training, a rescue dog with poor socialization skills, or an older animal who needs to unlearn bad behaviors, professional dog trainers can help shape your dog into the best dog (paw)sible. 

There are dog training options for every budget and lifestyle, from private sessions in your home, to group classes at the trainer’s facility and away-from-home bootcamps. Dog trainers may also use different methods based on their background and a dog’s needs. 

Here’s a look at the 3 most common dog training methods, advice on how to hire a pro trainer, and the 10 commands every dog should learn. 

Read about the Cost of pet training, and find a professional pet trainer near you.

Dog training is just as important for dog owners as for dogs. Dog training gives you an opportunity to learn how to speak “dog” and communicate better with your canine companion. 

Here are the 7 basic obedience commands that every dog needs to know. Your dog will have to perform each of these to ace the American Kennel Club (AKC) Good Citizen Test, plus a few more.

1. Come. There are a number of scenarios where this command is useful; the most critical one involves calling your dog away from people or other animals who don’t want to interact.

2. Sit. This directive helps curb rambunctious or anxious behavior, such as jumping on people or nervous pacing. 

3. Down. Like the “sit” command, teaching your dog to lie down can redirect unruly behavior. The “down” command helps them settle comfortably for a longer period of time.

4. Stay. Use this command to prevent your dog from darting out the door or getting himself into a dangerous situation. 

5. Heel. This command helps with leash training, keeping your dog close to you and out of the way of other dogs, walkers, or cyclists. 

6. Off. Use this command to tell your dog to get off furniture, countertops, and other dogs. 

7. Leave it. This directive discourages your dog from eating dangerous items, destroying your shoes, or chasing squirrels.

If you want to be the best dog parent pawsible, read the Ultimate Pet Parent’s Guide. 

There are 3 primary methods of dog training: dominance training, positive reinforcement training, and science-based (or “scientific”) training. The best training technique for your dog will depend on its age, disposition, behavioral problems, and other factors. 

When interviewing dog training pros, give them detailed info about your dog and ask questions about their training program, to find the best match possible. Here’s what each method entails:

Dominance training had been the go-to method for decades, based on presumed wolf-pack mentality ruled by an alpha dog. This technique uses what’s called “positive punishment” and “negative reinforcement” to train unwanted behaviors out of a dog.

E-collar training is one example. For example, a pro would add a consequence to an unwanted behavior—say, buzzing an e-collar (sometimes called a shock collar) or spraying a bottle filled with water to deter jumping or excessive barking.

The most famous recent proponent of dominance training is Cesar Milan, who has received criticism from animal behaviorists. Studies show that dominance training induces higher levels of stress in dogs when they’re asked to perform a desired behavior. While this has fallen out of favor for most dog trainers, some find it useful for dogs that show aggressive or dominant behavior toward other dogs and humans. 

With positive reinforcement training, pros reward a dog’s good behavior with a treat, toy, petting, or praise. Negative behavior is ignored, rather than punished. Clicker training is a form of positive reinforcement. 

This training style is an effective method for puppies and young dogs (before aggressive or dominant behaviors have taken hold), as well as highly trainable dogs who are eager to please.  

Pick up some treats at your local dog food supplier, or head to one of the Top 50 dog bakeries in the US & Canada. 

A growing number of veterinarians and trainers recommend a method called science-based, or scientific, training. It combines aspects of both dominance training and positive reinforcement training.

As with positive reinforcement training, rewards are given when the dog performs a desired behavior. Instead of ignoring or punishing unwanted behaviors, rewards are taken away if the dog displays unwanted behaviors or doesn’t perform a command. 

Because the dog-training industry isn’t regulated, anyone can call themself a trainer without professional education or credentials. To find a qualified trainer, do your homework. Here are some tips to get started:

For more information on keeping your dogs occupied while you’re away, read the Cost of doggy daycare and How much does pet boarding cost? 

When speaking with pros, ask about the following information to help make your final selection:

A well-trained dog is a happier and safer dog—not to mention they’re more enjoyable for you and other pets and people. 

It’s ideal to intervene with proper training while your dog is still a puppy, but it’s never too late to teach an old dog new behaviors—or even tricks—if you find the right trainer for your particular pet. From the 7 basic commands, to eliminating bad habits, and modifying anxious or aggressive behavior, a pro trainer can be your (and your dog’s) best friend.

Find a dog training professional in your area.