The field of dog training is unregulated, legally allowing any individual to call themselves a trainer. While there are educational programs that train students within specific programs’ methods, there are no officiating licensing agencies to oversee anyone once certified. This allows anyone to advertise as a dog trainer, regardless of experience, education, or credentials.

When choosing a trainer, focus on qualifications, training philosophy, and their ability to work compassionately with both you and your dog. The right trainer should use methods backed by up-to-date science, prioritize your dog’s emotional and physical well-being, and help promote a healthy, human-animal bond. No trainer should ever push you or your dog past comfortable or safe limits.

What Science Reveals About Training Methods

Scientific research shows that reward-based training is not just more effective, it is also much safer for you and your dog’s welfare:

Dogs trained with punishment or aversive techniques (like shouting, leash jerks, shock, prong, or choke collars) show more signs of fear and stress, such as body shaking, yawning, cowering, panting, lowered ears or body, lip licking, and even increased vigilance or avoidance.

• These effects from stress can last long after training is over; sometimes just hearing a training word can make your dog anxious.
• Using punishment is linked to more aggression and other problem behaviors, not less. In fact, positive punishment (like leash corrections or yelling) is not effective at solving aggression.
• Training with pain or fear damages the relationship between dog and caregivers: Dogs are less trusting, less affectionate, and may avoid eye contact or ignore gentle affection if punished often.
• Dogs learn less and respond more slowly when punishment is used. Studies show that using rewards alone leads to quicker, more reliable learning and better long-term obedience.

Especially Dangerous Practices

Some methods, like "hanging" (suspending a dog by its collar) or "helicoptering" (swinging or spinning a dog by the collar), have resulted in tragic cases of brain damage, blindness, and death. These techniques are considered abusive and are condemned by animal welfare groups internationally.

Important Qualities to Look for in a Dog Trainer:

Treat pouch

Trainers should use positive reinforcement with treats, toys, or praise.

 The trainer should use treats, toys, or praise; not pain, fear, or intimidation. Shock, choke, or prong collars and methods that you or your dog find uncomfortable or scary should not be used.

• Trainers should be transparent, answer your questions honestly, update you on your dog’s progress, and explain every technique.
• Have they worked with dogs like yours (breed, behavior, goals)?  Any specific titles (CGC, AGCH, SWM), ongoing training, or advanced experience?
• Good trainers are not only knowledgeable but also patient and friendly; they make both dogs and people feel supported, never pressured, or rushed. 

What about Training Tools?

Be alert for these tools and practices: 

• Shock collars: Scientific studies confirm these tools cause immediate pain (yelping, crying), high stress (panting, body tension), and even physical injuries in some cases. They are banned in many countries due to welfare risks.
• Prong and choke collars: These can hurt or injure your dog and are associated with more undesirable behaviors and less caregiver satisfaction. Both types are illegal in many places.
• Other collars: Even regular neck collars can increase pressure on the eyes and neck when dogs pull.
• Intermittent rewarding: If using a clicker, be consistent. Science shows inconsistency (not giving a treat after each click) can make dogs frustrated and delay learning.

Trainers and Professional Organizations

Having certifications such as those from the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), Victoria Stilwell Academy (VSA), Pet Professional Guild (PPG), or International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) is a good sign. However, check that the certifying body requires force-free science-based methods. Most of the respected consultants do.

More than a dozen leading organizations and veterinary associations worldwide (e.g., BC SPCA, AVSAB, ASV, ACVB, RSPCA UK/Australia, British Veterinary Association, Pet Professional Guild, The Kennel Club, Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, and more) publicly state that aversive methods, including shock, prong, and choke collars, should not be used.

Experience and Continuing Education Matters

Ask about the trainer’s experience with specific dog issues (e.g., fear, aggression, therapy work, sports). If you have sports goals, look at titles or achievements. Trainers should keep learning via workshops, conferences, and reading new studies.

Dog class

Dogs panting, avoiding eye contact, and wearing a shock collar in a class.

What to Watch for in Class 

• Ask to observe a class before signing up. Students and their dogs should look relaxed, engaged, and happy.
• See what equipment is used. No dogs should be wearing or subjected to shock, prong, or choke collars.
• If you ever feel uncomfortable about a trainer’s approach, trust your instincts and look elsewhere.

Question Checklist for a Prospective Trainer

• What training methods and tools do you use?
• What certifications and memberships do you have?
• What training or education have you completed recently?
• How do you respond to a dog that acts up or struggles in class?
• Can I observe a class or lesson before signing up?
• Do you have experience with dogs who have the same behaviors or goals as mine?
• Can you give me a list of referrals?

Red Flags to Avoid

• A trainer who promises guaranteed results (no one can guarantee dog behavior).
• Anyone using, recommending, or hiding punishment-based methods or equipment (such as bandanas over collars).
• Trainers who push your dog or you past your limits, ignore your concerns, or who are not open and clear about what’s happening.

Understanding the Field and Possible Confusion

Dog with caregiver

Dog engaged with caregiver

Since the training field is not regulated, some trainers use unclear terms like “balanced,” “pack leadership,” or “nature-based” to make harsh methods sound friendlier. Do not be misled by marketing; ask for details about every tool and method used. Studies show that confusion about what is safe and effective is common because trainers and organizations do not all say the same thing, and information quality varies. Be sure your trainer stands with science and reputable professional groups.