When is the best time to request help from a dog trainer or behaviourist?

When is the best time to request help from a dog trainer or behaviourist? 

Is it when 

• You have tried to live with the behaviour for a period in the hope it will go away , improve on its own or think that your dog may grow out of it
• A family member has said “it’s me or the dog”
• The dog, another person or animal has become injured or upset
• You have consulted the internet and watched many YouTube or social media videos or asked for advice and got totally confused with the often-conflicting information you have seen or heard.
• You, your dog, or family is so confused or upset that communication has broken down
• You are worried about taking them out for fear of criticism or embarrassment.

If any of the above apply you have probably left it too late.

The best time to request help is as soon as you notice any recurring behaviours that you find inappropriate and if you see signs of aggression, fear, anxiety, or excessive reactivity in your dog. 

Early intervention can help prevent the behaviour from escalating or becoming ingrained, making it easier and often less expensive to modify and address. 

Waiting in the hope it will improve in time, trying to resolve the issue or issues on your own or by following internet or social media dog trainers and behaviourists. 

This may make the behaviour worse as you dog has more time to practice it, or there may be no consistency in the methods and it confuses you and your dog.

Leaving it without professional support will often make matters worse or it will take longer to resolve therefore will cost more. 

If you are looking for a professional and supportive trainer or behaviourist and I suggest you do your research before engaging one. 

There are many dog training organisations in the UK and not all the follow the same ethics where the welfare of the dog and the caregiver is most important, they consider your dog’s needs and use gentle and pain free methods. Ones that do include the IMDT. APDT. PACT, Dog Training College. NICE. 

When looking for assistance the above organisations are good places to start your search as are breed clubs, local referrals, and specialist groups.

If your have training or behavioural issues with you puppy or adolescent dog I would be very happy to help and support you and your family.

Click Here to contact Gill at Speaking Puppy & Adolescent Dog training programmes 

www.speakingpuppy.co.uk

gill@speakingpuppy.co.uk 

07595 217299