Instructions
Decide what type of trainer you need to hire. This will depend largely on your dog's issues. Basic obedience or house training issues can probably be solved by a trainer or a Certified Pet Dog Trainer. Trainers usually learn their skill by apprenticing with another trainer, or by reading extensively on the subject. Certified Pet Dog Trainers (CPDT) are required to complete a certification program through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Severe problems, such as phobias or aggression, might be better dealt with by a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB). These professionals have earned a master's degree or Ph.D. in animal behavior.
Search for trainers or behaviorists in your area. Run a search in your Web browser or dig through the phone book to find trainers. Ask your veterinarian to recommend local trainers. If you're looking for basic obedience classes, you might even find them at local pet stores, such as PetSmart or Petco.
Interview instructors. Don't hire the first trainer you speak with. Ask each trainer about his education and experience. Find out what type of training methods he uses, such as positive or negative reinforcement. Ask if he only offers group classes, or if private lessons or in-home training is available.
Audit classes. Make an appointment with each school or trainer to sit in on a class or two. This will allow you to see the trainer in action. Ask yourself if this trainer or behaviorist uses methods that you feel comfortable with. Do you think that you and your dog will fit in at this school? Will you get along with the trainer on a personal level? See if the trainer only works with dogs, or if she teaches the owners how to work with their dogs. This will be important if you want to practice with your dog at home and continue training it in the future.
Ask about pricing for group classes and private lessons. Private lessons are likely to be more expensive than group classes. Expect to pay more for a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist than you would for a CPDT or a trainer.
Make an appointment with your vet. If your trained dog suddenly starts developing behavior problems, a health issue could be the true culprit. Talk to your veterinarian about the problems you are having and ask him to give your dog a full physical examination.
How to Choose a Professional Dog Trainer
Stacks of books and magazines, as well as blogs and Web articles, make it possible for many dog owners to take a do-it-yourself approach to dog training. But what do you do when your dog develops a problem that you can't figure out on your own? What happens when your well-behaved dog suddenly dives off the deep end and starts destroying things? How do you teach a dog that seems to have a particularly stubborn personality? The answer to this question is simple -- seek professional help. Professional dog trainers and behaviorists can help you solve your dog's issues when you feel in over your head.