Q What credentials are required for dog trainers?

A None!  Anyone can call oneself a dog trainer!

Q What are the different types of certification available today?

A Currently the most widely recognized dog trainer certification program is that offered by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).  In order to take this exam, one must provide proof of a certain number of hours of experience as well as references from peers, vets & students or clients.  The exam covers topics such as learning theory, operant & classical conditioning, equipment, animal husbandry, etc.

The other type of "certification" is really more of a certificate of completion for a particular course of study.

Q Can mixed breeds earn titles?

A Yes!  They can be registered with the California chapter of the Mixed Breed Dog Clubs of America & earn titles in most all the same venues as purebreds!  The AKC is also considering allowing mixed breeds to compete at their trials.

Q Are the soft crates that I see today as good as plastic or metal crates?

A Soft crates can be wonderful & convenient for use in motels & at dog shows, but *only* by dogs that are reliably crate trained!!!

Q Why doesn't my dog come when called?

A Because you've probably taught him *not* to come by calling him when you cannot enforce it or by scolding him when he comes to you. 

Q Why does my dog continue to jump when I tell him "down?"

A We are teaching our dogs a foreign language.  You must show them what a word means, make it easy for them to be successful at first & reinforce the behavior.  Make sure you are not using the same command for multiple behaviors or your dog will just be confused & not fluent at either.  For example, to my dogs, "off" is used for jumping & "down" means to lie on the ground.

Q What is the "honeymoon" period?

A It is the period of time it takes the dog to adjust to a new environment.  Often they appear to be "on their best behavior" or inhibited at first.  As they gain confidence, old behaviors begin to surface.

Q How come my dog gets along at the dog park, but lunges & barks at other dogs when on leash?

A The dog park environment allows the practice of many inappropriate behaviors.  They can't engage in these types of behavior while on leash. 

Q Why is my 2 year old dog getting more aggressive?

A Dogs don't reach their peak of aggression until 3 or later.

Q Why does my dog continue to shake in fear even though I tell him "it's okay?"

A Consoling tends to reinforce fear, instead you want to convey a matter-of-fact or confident attitude.

Q Should I take my puppy's food away so he learns not to be aggressive?

A Actually, well-intentioned owners can *create* food bowl aggression by doing this.

Q Does using food rewards make dogs only listen when you have food?

A Not unless the trainer is using the food incorrectly!  Studies show that food trained dogs learn faster & retain more.