Free checklist

10 Questions to Ask Any Dog Trainer

Before you hand over your dog (and your money), these are the questions that separate a great trainer from a risky one. Save it, print it, bring it to your first call.

What training methods do you use?

Methods reveal everything. You want reward-based / positive-reinforcement training, not fear or pain.

Green flag“Positive reinforcement, force-free, LIMA” — and they can explain it simply.

Red flag“Dominance,” “alpha,” or heavy reliance on prong/shock collars as the first tool.

What are your certifications and education?

Dog training is unregulated — anyone can call themselves a trainer. Credentials show real, tested knowledge.

Green flagCCPDT (CPDT-KA), KPA, IAABC, or a vet-behaviorist referral they can verify.

Red flagNo certification and no answer beyond “years of experience.”

How much experience do you have with my specific issue?

Puppy manners and serious aggression are different jobs. Match the trainer to your actual need.

Green flagConcrete examples of similar cases and outcomes.

Red flag“I handle everything the same way.”

What does a typical session look like?

You should know what you’re paying for and how the work actually happens.

Green flagA clear structure, and they involve YOU, not just the dog.

Red flagVague answers, or they take the dog away with no plan you can follow.

Do you guarantee results?

This one is a test. Behavior depends on the owner and the dog — no honest trainer guarantees it.

Green flag“No one can guarantee behavior, but here’s the realistic outcome and timeline.”

Red flag“100% guaranteed results” — a marketing promise, not a training one.

How do you handle mistakes or unwanted behavior?

Their answer tells you whether they teach or they punish.

Green flagRedirect to the right behavior and reward it.

Red flagCorrections, “corrections,” or anything that relies on intimidation.

Can I watch a class or speak to past clients?

Confident, ethical trainers are happy to be seen and vouched for.

Green flag“Of course — come watch” and real references.

Red flagReluctance, secrecy, or “we don’t allow observers.”

Will you teach ME, or just train my dog?

You live with the dog. Lasting results come from the owner learning the skills.

Green flagOwner coaching is built into the program.

Red flag“Drop the dog off and we’ll fix it” with no handover.

What happens if it isn’t working?

Good trainers adjust and stand behind their work.

Green flagA follow-up plan, and a fair revisit/refund policy.

Red flagNo follow-up, no flexibility, payment up front for everything.

What are your fees, and what’s included?

Know the total before you start — sessions, follow-up, and materials.

Green flagTransparent, itemised pricing.

Red flagHidden add-ons, or pressure to buy a big package on day one.

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