I've seen a lot in my 30-plus years of training. I've worked with 1,000s of dogs, from family pets to specialized K9 units, and if there's one thing I've learned, it's that not all training is good training. It’s tough for owners to know what to look for, so I want to lay out some of the biggest red flags I see in my profession. Clarity is kindness, and you and your dog deserve a clear path forward.
The first major warning sign is a trainer who promises a "quick fix." Faster is usually not better. A trainer who guarantees they can solve a deep-rooted behavioral issue in a single session is selling you a fantasy. Real, lasting change takes time, patience, and a deep understanding of the dog in front of you. Remember my third commandment: faster is not better. True training is about building a relationship and clear communication, not forcing a robotic response. Dogs are living, emotional beings, not machines.
Another red flag is a trainer who relies on a single tool or method for every dog. Whether it's an e-collar, a prong collar, or a treat pouch, tools don't make the trainer. A good trainer has a deep toolbox and understands which tool is appropriate for the individual dog and the specific situation. They should be able to explain why they are choosing a particular approach and what the steps are for eventually phasing it out. They should be setting the puppy up for success rather than failure.
Finally, be wary of any trainer who dismisses the importance of your dog’s needs and instincts. Not allowing your dog to be a dog is a form of cruelty, even if it's unintentional. Dogs need to play, they need to have purpose, and they need structure. A trainer who doesn’t address the root cause of a behavior, or who wants to correct a dog before it even understands what’s expected, is a trainer to avoid. Above all, corrections must be fair. It’s never too late to find the right path for you and your dog, but it starts with choosing the right guide.
