Choosing the right dog trainer is essential for building a positive relationship with your dog. Whether you’re looking to teach basic commands or address behavioral issues, knowing what to look for in a dog trainer can make a significant difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key qualities to seek in a dog trainer and why they matter, with a particular focus on how Pack Academy’s methods align with these important factors in Chattanooga.
When choosing a dog trainer, certification and qualifications are crucial. A good trainer should have an in-depth understanding of canine behavior and training techniques.
Look for certifications from reputable organizations or trainers with a solid background in behavior science. Trainers with experience in behavioral analysis and positive reinforcement will be equipped to handle a wide range of behavioral issues, from basic obedience to more serious behavioral challenges.
For example, Jeannine Wilman of Pack Academy holds a Bachelor's in Psychology, which gives her a deep understanding of both human and animal behavior. She is also certified in fear, aggression, and canine behavior, with over seven years of experience working with dogs of all temperaments. This educational background, along with her practical experience, allows Pack Academy to deliver scientifically informed training methods that address a variety of dog behaviors.
When it comes to dog training, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Look for a trainer who uses balanced training methods—those that incorporate both positive reinforcement and appropriate corrections. Positive reinforcement encourages desirable behaviors, while corrections can deter undesirable behaviors, helping the dog understand what’s expected of them.
At Pack Academy, we use a balanced training approach that combines positive reinforcement with strategic corrections. This method is grounded in operant conditioning, where behaviors are shaped by their consequences. For example, if a dog jumps on you for attention, instead of rewarding the behavior by petting them, we focus on ignoring the jumping behavior and reinforcing calmness with positive rewards. This teaches the dog that calm behavior, not jumping, is what gets the desired attention.
While positive reinforcement is a vital component of training, we’ve seen firsthand that relying solely on positive methods without addressing undesirable behaviors can lead to frustration for both the dog and owner. This is why a balanced approach is critical to achieving lasting results.
If your dog is struggling with behavioral challenges such as aggression, fear reactivity, or separation anxiety, it’s important to find a trainer with experience in these areas. Look for a trainer who uses Behavioral Adjustment Methods (BAM) and Constructional Aggression Treatment (CAT), which are scientifically-backed techniques specifically designed to address these types of issues.
Pack Academy specializes in these methods, and we are committed to providing thoughtful, structured interventions for dogs facing fear and aggression challenges.
These techniques help to reduce negative behaviors like aggression while promoting positive, desired behaviors. Our approach ensures that your dog not only learns to overcome these behaviors but also builds confidence and stability.
Effective dog training should always be customized to the individual dog. Every dog has a unique temperament and learning style, and a good trainer will create a personalized training plan based on these factors.
At Pack Academy, we take the time to assess your dog’s personality and needs, then create a training plan designed to suit them. Whether your dog needs help with basic commands, leash training, or overcoming specific behavioral challenges, we work with you to ensure the training is as effective as possible.
While much of this guide focuses on behavioral challenges, it’s equally important to start training puppies early to establish good habits. Puppies are like sponges, absorbing everything they experience. Starting training at a young age helps set the foundation for a well-behaved adult dog.
At Pack Academy, we emphasize early training to set puppies up for success. Our balanced training methods are perfect for puppies, teaching them essential skills like potty training, leash walking, and socialization. We use a mix of positive reinforcement and appropriate corrections to help your puppy learn good behaviors from the start. By introducing the concept of boundaries early on, we set the stage for your puppy to grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.
Lastly, don’t forget to look for client testimonials. Positive reviews and success stories give you insight into the trainer’s methods and results. A trainer with proven success in helping dogs of all kinds will likely be a good fit for your needs.
At Pack Academy, we’ve helped countless dogs, from puppies to adult dogs, overcome challenges such as fear reactivity, aggression, and leash pulling. Our clients often share stories of significant improvements in their dogs’ behavior and overall happiness.
Choosing the right dog trainer can make a lasting impact on your dog’s behavior and your relationship with them. With Pack Academy’s balanced approach to training, your dog will not only learn proper behavior but also build a stronger bond with you as their owner. Whether you're dealing with aggression, fear reactivity, or simply need help with obedience, our team is here to provide the guidance and expertise you need.
If you’re looking for expert dog training services in Chattanooga, reach out to Pack Academy today. Let’s work together to create a positive, well-behaved dog who is a happy, confident member of your family.
