How to choose a dog trainer or training method

Question - where does a dog trainer go to learn how best to train problem dogs?

Question - how to have a superior relationship with your dogs?

Question - which training method is best?

All are valid and perplexing questions. Let's try and answer them!

First - Dog trainers, I believe, come in two types... those who have all the paper qualifications, and may, or may not, be the best at their chosen profession... and those who are instinctive. Instinctive trainers may also have the paper qualifications, but not necessarily so - they have, on the other hand, studied, and empathized with animals throughout their lives, so building up a vast store of knowledge.

All 'new' dog trainers should study as much as they can from as many different sources as possible. And here by 'dog trainers' I am meaning those who wish to turn dog training into their profession, and also those who are about to take into their homes a new pet.

Second - you will gain a superior relationship, by first gaining superior knowledge. Learn, learn, learn. The more you learn, the more interested you will become, and the more interested you are the more you will learn and understand the complexities of dog society, and pack hierarchy.

Third - which method is best? One which is kind and relies on rewards for 'good' behaviour.

Short note on rewards... all rewards need not be of food - attention in the form of petting, play with a favourite toy, a walk, or a few games or tricks also work well for some breeds.

[A later post will discuss the trainers, methods of learning, and differences between them. Your preferred learning method, learning reinforcements, etcetera, will be taken into account. You can then review all the possible training methods open to you before you resort to a personal dog trainer for your situation.]