We can’t all becertified dog trainers, but you’ve got to think like one if you adopt a dog. Being a good dog parent is more than cuddling up at night or posting cute pics to Instagram. It’s about teaching your dog how to behave in the world so they can live their best life. We asked three certified dog trainers what their number one rules for dog training are. Their answers are simple, easy to follow and a great place to start if you’re feeling overwhelmed. At the heart of each one: work with your dog, not against her.
Meet the Experts:
- Nicole Ellisis a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Pet Lifestyle Expert withRover, a site that connects pet parents with pet sitters and dog walkers. She’s trained all sorts of animals for the past 15 years and detailed these experiences in her book, “Working Like A Dog.”
- Kait Hembreeis the Head of Training atGoodPup, a positive reinforcement training company. Hembree worked with a team of professionals to build GoodPup’s program. Her dog behavior consults are based on science and her many experiences training canines.
- Chris Ramsayis a dog trainer, behaviorist and designated coach forTraining Between The Ears, a specialized dog training program designed for pups with difficult behavior issues. Ramsay also ownsShaker Hound Academy, a doggy boot camp. He’s been in the business of dog training for more than 15 years.
While each professional trainer has a different number one rule they tell clients to follow, each touches on one fundamental fact: your dog is a dog. If youwant them to respect youand follow your guidance, you’ve got to meet them where they are. They’re dogs! Not humans or kids or English-speaking animals out of a Pixar movie.