…that the American Humane Association publishes the Guide to Humane Dog Training. Yes, actual guidelines to help you evaluate your dog trainer: is he or she using AHA-recommended tools?, is he or she behaving in an ethical manner?, does he or she have the necessary people and communication skills to teach effectively?, does he or she know the fallout or consequences of each tool he or she uses (and can explain it to you in every day language?).
This well written and informative guide is 57 pages and covers the following areas:
Part 1: Training with Pleasure – What every dog owner (and dog trainer) should know about their dogs and the different kinds of training methods and equipment available.
- Your Dog’s Behavior
- How Your Dog Learns
- Training Your Dog
- Training Tools & Equipment
Part 2: Who Knows Best? – Things you need to know to help you find a humane dog trainer.
- Instructor Skills
- Training Environment
- Ethics
If you’re interested in knowing whether your trainer meets the humane training guidelines as set forth by the American Humane Association, either buy a copy of the Guide -or- email me. And again, NO – I don’t get any money from the AHA. I do feel better, though, teaching people to set the bar high when interviewing a trainer for their dog. And empowering those people to be an advocate for their dog and speak up if they come across a trainer who practices inhumane techniques.
Happy training!
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