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Essential Questions to Ask Dog Trainers – Get Expert Answers

By Michigan Dog Training

Ready to choose the right dog trainer? Learn essential questions to ask and gain expert answers that will guide you in training your furry friend effectively!



Essential Questions to Ask a Dog Trainer Before You Hire Them

Hiring a dog trainer is a big decision—after all, you’re trusting someone with your pet’s education, confidence, and behavior. Whether you’re dealing with a feisty puppy or a reactive adult dog, finding the right professional can make or break your training success. Before committing, here are the essential questions you should ask to ensure the trainer’s ethics, methods, and experience align with your goals.

Trainer Credentials That Matter

Before trusting someone with your dog’s behavior, it’s crucial to evaluate their background. Credentials aren’t everything, but they provide insight into a trainer’s level of commitment, knowledge, and ethical standards.

Ask About Education & Experience

Training rooted in ethology (the study of animal behavior) goes far beyond basic obedience. Ask where the trainer learned their craft—was it hands-on mentorship, formal schooling, or continuing education? For more on training methods rooted in understanding animal behavior, see Michael Burkey’s approach.

Question to AskWhat to Listen For
How did you get started in dog training?Practical experience, structured learning, ongoing study
Have you worked with my breed before?Especially important for working breeds like German Shepherds
Do you specialize in puppies or adult dogs?Choose based on your dog’s age and needs

Check for Behavior Certifications

Professional certifications aren’t legally required, but they show dedication to learning, ethics, and professionalism. They also offer reassurance that the trainer has committed to continuing education and science-based dog training principles. Look for trainers certified by reputable organizations such as:

  • CCPDT (Certified Professional Dog Trainer) – This is one of the most recognized certifications in the field. Trainers must pass a rigorous exam covering learning theory, behavior modification, and professional conduct. They are also required to log hundreds of hours of hands-on experience and maintain their certification through continuing education.
  • IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) – Ideal for trainers who specialize in behavior modification, aggression, and fear-based challenges. IAABC members must demonstrate real-world experience and submit detailed case studies for peer review. Their standards promote humane, evidence-based methods rooted in ethology.
  • Karen Pryor Academy – Known for its focus on positive reinforcement and clicker training, this academy produces trainers who follow clear, ethical guidelines in their work with both animals and owners. Graduates receive extensive hands-on education in operant conditioning and animal communication.

Each of these certifications reflects a high level of professional development and a commitment to ethical, effective dog training. Choosing a trainer with one or more of these credentials helps ensure your pet receives the best possible care and instruction.

Request Client Testimonials or Reviews

Don’t just take the trainer’s word for it. Ask for referrals, read reviews, and check their reputation in your community. A solid trainer will have happy clients eager to share their results.

How They Assess Your Dog

The best trainers don’t jump into a program blindly. They start with a careful assessment to better understand your dog’s temperament, learning style, and specific challenges.

Watch Their Initial Evaluation

Observation is everything in animal training. During an assessment, the trainer should:

  • Watch your dog’s body language
  • Ask you detailed questions
  • Note triggers like fear, leash pulling, or attention-seeking behavior

If they jump into training without observing first, that’s a red flag.

Review Custom Training Plans

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work in behavior modification. Ask how they tailor their training to your dog’s needs. Puppies need structure and socialization, while older dogs might need help overcoming aggression or fear.

Dog TypeNeeds May Include
PuppySocialization, potty training, leash manners
Rescue DogFear reduction, confidence building, trust exercises
Working BreedMental stimulation, impulse control, structured challenges

Understanding Their Training Methods

Small white dog walking politely on a leash beside a person during outdoor training.

How a trainer approaches behavior tells you a lot about their ethics. A professional trainer should be able to explain their methods clearly and confidently.

Ask About Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is the gold standard in modern dog training. Ask what tools they use to reward good behavior. Treats, toys, praise—these all support learning through motivation, not punishment.

Discuss Correction vs. Motivation

Some trainers use corrections like leash pops or even a shock collar. You need to decide what aligns with your comfort level. Ask:

  • Do you use aversive tools?
  • When do you use them and why?
  • What is your stance on fear-based techniques?

A transparent answer tells you whether their ethics and understanding of behavior align with yours.

Review How They Measure Success

Do they track training goals? Will they provide feedback after sessions? Progress tracking helps ensure your dog is learning and that you’re getting the value you paid for.

Handling Behavioral Issues

Some dogs need more than basic obedience—they need help overcoming real behavioral challenges like aggression, anxiety, or resource guarding.

Review Their Approach to Common Problems

Ask how they handle barking, leash reactivity, jumping, or separation anxiety. Listen for clear, structured plans, not generic advice. For example, understanding the fundamentals of basic manners can be a good start.

Discuss Aggression & Fear Responses

If your dog struggles with fear or reactivity, ask about their experience handling these issues. Have they worked with dogs who needed behavior modification due to aggression? Did they involve a vet or behaviorist when needed?

Learn About Post-Training Follow-Up

Training doesn’t stop after the final session. Ask if they offer follow-up support, check-ins, or ongoing coaching to ensure lasting success.

Costs and Program Details

Training is an investment in your dog’s well-being, but you still want to understand exactly what you’re paying for. Transparency in pricing helps build trust and allows you to compare options with confidence. Be sure to ask whether any additional fees apply for special equipment, extended sessions, or kennel stays if you’re enrolling in a board-and-train program. Knowing the financial commitment in advance also helps set expectations for the duration and intensity of the program, so there are no surprises along the way.

Clarify the Pricing Structure

Ask for a breakdown of:

  • Per-session rates
  • Program vs. package pricing
  • Payment terms

See What's Included in Packages

Does the package include:

  • Group classes or private sessions?
  • Written training plans?
  • Tools like leashes or clickers?

Understand Cancellation Policies

Life happens. Make sure you know their policies around missed appointments, rescheduling, or withdrawing from a program. Some trainers have strict timelines or non-refundable fees, while others may be more flexible depending on notice. Clarifying this upfront can help you avoid surprises and maintain a positive relationship with your trainer, even when plans change unexpectedly.

Owner Training & Ongoing Support

Two fluffy puppies sitting on a bench, both leashed and looking playfully at the camera.

A trainer doesn’t just teach dogs—they teach owners. You’re part of the training team, so ongoing education matters. The habits you build at home are just as important as what happens during training sessions. A good trainer will ensure you’re equipped with the tools, confidence, and understanding needed to reinforce learning and continue your dog’s progress beyond the classroom.

Why Owner Involvement Matters

Without your participation, even the best training can fall apart. Ask how much time you’ll be expected to practice at home and what kind of hands-on learning you’ll do.

Ask About Resources & Workshops

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to leverage every available resource to enhance your skills and understanding, especially when it comes to professional growth. One effective way to do this is by participating in workshops and asking about the various resources available within your organization or community.

These workshops often cover a range of topics, from technical skills to personal development, and they can provide you with hands-on experience and insights that you might not get in more traditional settings. By asking about these opportunities, you take proactive steps in your learning journey, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve and well-prepared for future challenges.

Moreover, tapping into resources extends beyond just workshops. Many organizations offer access to online courses, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities that are incredibly beneficial for professional development. Inquire about these resources and how they can fit into your schedule and learning style. This not only shows initiative but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement within your workplace.

Remember, taking advantage of available resources demonstrates your commitment to growth and can significantly enhance your expertise, making you a more valuable asset in your field. So, don’t hesitate—ask questions and actively seek out workshops and resources that align with your goals. Your career trajectory will thank you!

Do they offer:

  • Written guides or training videos?
  • Workshops or Q&A sessions?
  • Ongoing access to advice after graduation?

The more support you have, the more confident and consistent you’ll be with your dog.

Bottom line: A great dog trainer doesn’t just fix problems—they help you and your pet become a better team. Asking the right questions reveals a trainer’s experience, ethics, and approach so you can make the best choice for your dog’s future. And when you invest in the right trainer, you’re not just paying for obedience—you’re building trust, understanding, and a lifelong bond.

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