WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN PICKING A TRAINER

Found on each Trainer's Profile page. 

Dog training credentials tell you a little bit about the type of education your trainer has pursued to ensure they are as knowledgeable as possible for the field.

• Education is critical in the field of animal training. Dog training is, essentially, applied science. If you don't know the science, how can you effectively and ethically apply it?
• For many specializations, trainers may hold certifications or credentials specific to that specialization
• NMDTU recognizes credentials from organizations that focus on up-to-date, scientifically-sound training approaches that prioritizes the behavioral health and welfare of the learner (the dog). 
• We don't accept all credentials, so when you see credentials on a trainer's page, it tells you their education meets the ethical standards of New Mexico Dog Trainers United.

Found on the "Find a Trainer" and Trainer's Profile pages.

Training can be offered in different ways. Look for the trainer with offerings that best fit the learning experience you want. 

• Private Training: One-on-one education, with the trainer coming either to your home or another location. Can be more expensive, but also more individualized.
• Group Classes: Training takes place in a group setting with other dogs and people. Often less expensive, but less individualized.
• Day Train/Board-n-Train: Trainer will do the training directly with your dog, either in your home or their facility. Trainer then teaches you how to ask for and get the same behaviors.
• Remote: Trainer offers sessions (either private or group) via online platforms. Coaching happens online, not face-to-face. This means these trainers have a wider service area than their physical location (and, yes, remote training does work!).

Found on the "Find a Trainer" and Trainer's Profile pages.

You want to find a trainer with experience and education in the specific area you are interested in training your dog in.

Examples of specializations include:

• Basic Skills: sometimes called "obedience" these are the basic behaviors most families want dogs to learn, "sit," "down," etc.
• Puppies: trainer is specialized in development and learning for dogs 6 months and under
• Service Dog: trainer has education/experience in teaching service dog behaviors and coaching owners looking for service dog support
• Therapy Dog: trainer has special education/experience in preparing owners to complete therapy dog testing with their dog
• Aggression: trainer has special education/experience working with dogs who might attempt to bite humans/other animals
• Behavior concerns: trainer has special education/experience working with dogs struggling with issues of fear, anxiety, hyperactivity or other concerning behaviors
• Sports: trainer has special education/experience teaching dogs to competition level in sports such as agility, obedience, scent work, field work, etc. Details on what sports trained for in trainer profile 

Found on the "Find a Trainer" and Trainer's Profile pages.

Location is important if you will be meeting your trainer face-to-face for private sessions or group classes. 

• Look for trainers whose service area includes a location you are willing to travel within or to for your training sessions. 
• Can't find a trainer in your exact location? Look for trainers offering Remote services!