08/18/2025
š¾ Finding the Right Gun Dog Trainer: Top 5 Questions to Ask š¾
Choosing a gun dog trainer for your dog is an important decisionāyouāre trusting someone with not only your dogās skills but also their well-being.
Here are the Top 5 Questions you should ask when looking for a new trainer:
1ļøā£ What training methods do you use?
Every trainer has a style. Ask if they use positive reinforcement, pressure/release, collar conditioning, or a blend of methods. Make sure their approach matches your expectations and your dogās temperament.
2ļøā£ Can I visit your facility and watch you work dogs?
A transparent trainer should welcome you to observe their setup. Look for clean kennels, happy and healthy dogs, and professional handling.
3ļøā£ What is your training timeline and process?
Ask how long they typically keep dogs, what the stages of training look like, and how they measure progress. This gives you an idea of what to expect while your dog is away.
4ļøā£ How do you involve the owner in the process?
The best trainers donāt just train the dogāthey train the handler, too. Make sure youāll get lessons or updates so you and your dog can succeed together.
5ļøā£ What does a typical day look like for the dogs in your care?
This helps you understand how often your dog will be worked, what downtime looks like, and how they balance training with rest and kennel life.