Finding the right dog behaviourist/ trainer is crucial for your dog’s well-being and the success of their training.
With so many training methods available, it’s important to find the right person/ company for your unique dog, but also to recognise warning signs that indicate outdated, harmful practice, and potentially, unrealistic outcomes.
From a positive reinforcement perspective, here are some ‘concerns’ to watch out for when choosing a trainer.
1. Use of Aversive Methods
Any trainer who relies solely on punishment-based tools like prong collars, choke chains, or shock collars should raise immediate concern. Positive reinforcement training is based on rewarding desired behaviours rather than using fear or pain to suppress unwanted ones. If a trainer insists that punishment is necessary for obedience, tread very carefully.
These aversive methods often achieve a quick fix but often add to a dog’s fears and anxieties.
2. Lack of Certifications, Continuing Education or Proven Experience and Results.
A reputable positive reinforcement trainer will have accreditations from recognised organisations/ study bodies.
Trainers who dismiss the need for education, experience, or professional development may not be up to date with modern training practices.
Always ask to see before and afters and examples of methods used to achieve the results.
3. Blaming the Dog or Certain Breeds
Trainers who claim that certain dogs are “stubborn,” “dominant,” or “untrainable” often rely on outdated dominance theory. Positive reinforcement trainers understand that all dogs can learn with the right approach and environment- methods may need to be adapted to suit different breed’s needs but no breed is untrainable.
4. Lack of Transparency
A trustworthy trainer should be open about their methods, allowing you to observe training sessions or explain the reasoning behind their techniques. If a trainer refuses to let you watch a session, discourages questions, or avoids explaining their methodology, they may have something to hide.
5. Guarantees of Quick Fixes or Putting specific Timescales on How Long a Problem Will Take to Resolve
Dog training takes time and consistency. Beware of trainers who promise instant results or claim they can “fix” behavioural issues in just one or two sessions. Real behavioural change, especially for issues like reactivity or anxiety, requires patience, management, and a customised training plan.
Also stay clear or companies/ individuals who insist on a huge block booking, and entire up front payment for them all before even assessing the dog
6. No Use of Rewards or Dismissing Food as a Training Tool
Positive reinforcement training is based on rewarding good behaviour. Trainers who refuse to use food, treats, or toys as motivators often rely on outdated methods. If a trainer claims that using treats is “bribery” or that a dog should work only for praise, they misunderstand how learning and motivation work.
7. Forcing Interactions or Ignoring a Dog’s Discomfort
A skilled trainer understands canine body language and respects a dog’s emotional state. If a trainer forces a dog into situations where they are clearly uncomfortable—such as flooding a fearful dog with overwhelming exposure to their trigger—they may be causing more harm than good.
8. Overuse of the Word ‘Pack’ or ‘Alpha’
Trainers who talk about “being the alpha” or “showing dominance” or even suggesting dogs are being dominant, are using outdated theories based on debunked wolf pack models. Modern dog training focuses on cooperation and trust rather than outdated dominance-based approaches.
9. Excessive Focus on Suppressing Behaviours
If a trainer focusses only on stopping unwanted behaviours without addressing the underlying cause or teaching alternative behaviours, this is a problem. Effective positive reinforcement trainers focus on preventing unwanted behaviours by reinforcing better alternatives and setting dogs up for success.
10. Negative Reviews or No Client References
A good trainer should have a track record of success with satisfied clients. If they have numerous negative reviews, lack testimonials, or won’t provide references, it may indicate problems with their approach.
I’d also keep a distance from those who spend their lives on social media ripping apart other trainer’s work as opposed to promoting their own success stories.
What to Look for in a Positive Reinforcement Trainer
Instead of focusing solely on red flags, here are key traits of a great positive reinforcement trainer:
• Uses science-based, reward-based training methods.
• Encourages questions and transparency in their training process.
• Has certifications or continued education in animal behaviour (and shed loads of experience)
• Respects a dog’s emotional well-being and body language.
• Customises training to each dog rather than using a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
Remember, good training should strengthen the bond between you and your dog, not damage it.
