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Continued from Previous Page
 How does the
instructor handle the class? Is he like
a drill sergeant and not encouraging?
Does he explain and show as opposed to just
hoping you can figure it out? Even if
people are discouraged, does the instructor
find at least one area of improvement and
point it out?
Is the technique
adapted to the dog or is the dog expected to
fit the technique? If something is not
working, will the instructor use other
techniques to find what works best for the dog
or continue on with something that is not
working?
Does the
instructor provide the class with collars and
leashes or are you expected to provide your
own? If a pup outgrows a collar or the
type of collar given not the best, will the
instructor switch to a better suited one?
Are you given
any form of written instruction to help you
remember how to work with your dog?
Is the
instructor available before or after classes
to work with you? Can you reach the
instructor between classes if a problem arises
that may not be able to wait? Can you
call even after the series is over and ask
questions?
Is the
instructor a member of a national group such
as the Association of Pet Dog Trainers? Has he
or is he working towards any form of
independent accreditation such as offered by
the Certification Council for Pet Dog Trainers
through the Professional Testing Corporation?
These tests are not given by a school or
training association, rather they are similar
to board exams which are given by a separate entity.
Lastly, how do
YOU feel when you talk to the instructor and
observe a class? Do you feel
comfortable?
Now, with all this in mind, it is easy for the
dog owner to be blinded by titles and awards or
time in the field.
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