18/08/2026
Choosing the right dog trainer matters 🐕
Your dog is only as good as the guidance they receive .
A good trainer won’t just teach your dogs to obey commands , they should help you understand your dog and grow as a team .
What to look for in a good trainer
1 Look at their knowledge, experience and results they consistently produce
2 Understand individual dogs , temperament, genetics, breed traits etc all matter
3 Have real world experience , have dealt with different types of dogs and behavioural challenges
4 Assess the dog before training, a good trainer will want to know why the behaviour is happening before addressing the problem
5 Adapt their methods, there isn’t one technique that is suitable for all dogs
6 Communicate clearly, they should be able to explain what they are doing, why they are doing it and what’s expected from you going forward
7 Train the owner as well as the dog , you need to be able to maintain the training at home
8 Be honest and realistic , a good trainer won’t promise instant or overnight results
9 Prioritise safety, especially when dealing with aggression, reactivity or dogs with a bite history
10 Focus on long term results, not quick fix equipment to make a dog appear obedient for a few minutes
11 Be willing to demonstrate their work , ask to see them demonstrate with and handle dogs like yours .
Problems that can arise through bad training ‼️
1 Increased fear and anxiety , if the trainer uses inappropriate intimidation, pressure or punishment an anxious dog maybe come more fearful instead of learning to cope with situations
2 Suppression rather than solving the behaviour , a dog may stop showing an obvious behaviour rather than changing how it feels
3 Increased aggression or reactivity , poor timing and inappropriate training methods can increase frustration, conflict and defensive behaviour
4 Damage to dog - owner relationship , training should build communication and trust .
5 Incorrectly identifying the cause of the problem, not every problem is caused by disobedience . An inexperienced trainer may treat the symptom rather than understand the cause
6 One - size - fits - all training , there is no single training method that is appropriate for every dog
7 Problems becoming harder to undo , the biggest problem is poor training can create learned behaviours and negative associations .
By the time an experienced trainer is brought in they have to undo months of bad training before they can address the underlying issues.
At West Lancs Canine Centre we have been helping to train dogs and their owners since 1989 , we have a wealth of qualifications , knowledge and experience.
We have helped to build countless relationships between dogs and their handlers and most importantly helped dogs become happy, fulfilled members of society.
We have dealt with dogs of every breed and every behavioural problem and would love to help you and your dog build the relationship you both deserve.
For any further help or assistance please contact us to discuss your needs
