Why should you hire a dog trainer?

     Why should you hire a dog trainer?  Here are a couple reasons why. Did you know that in most cases it is cheaper to train your dog than pay for replacing the items they destroy. It's also less expensive than paying that vet bill after the dog swallows something it chews or if they accidentally injure themselves.
     Basic obedience dog training helps you form a healthy bond between you and your dog. They learn to trust you.  By training your dog, you are setting expectations and teaching them the "rules" of the house. Your dog will be more confident and will be less prone to destructive behaviors like separation anxiety.
     Many people just live with annoying and potentially dangerous behaviors. Take barking at the neighbor.  A good dog trainer can figure out why your dog is barking at the neighbor. Are they barking out of fear? Does your dog want to go play with the neighbor? Is it Aggression?  All of these scenarios present with your dog barking at your neighbor but very different techniques are used to change that behavior into a more desired one. If you use the same technique on each of them you can end up with reinforcing the underlying issue and potentially making it worse. 
     Do you have one of those dogs that only your husband can walk because the dog is too strong for you? Does your dog "only pull on the leash when they see another dog" Wouldn't it be nice to not have that happen. Not only does pulling cause trauma and possible injury to the dogs neck (assuming they are wearing a collar) but can potentially cause you physical harm as well. Not to mention the stress this behavior creates for both you and your dog. I don't know about you but if my dog pulled me down the street every time we went for a walk, I wouldn't be looking forward to our walks together. A good trainer can teach you how to walk with your dog at your side and maintain control of your dog, using positive reinforcement techniques, even if that pesky neighbor goes by.
     Hiring a dog trainer is an investment in your dogs health and well being.  All too often dogs are surrendered to shelters due to behavior issues that were never addressed. Some owners grow tired of these "annoying" behaviors or "cannot physically control" their dog. These dogs aren't "bad" they just never learned the rules of the house.  Did you know that some shelters euthanize these poor pets because they run out of space or don't have the means to care for them.  All because they were never taught what was expected of them.
     These were is just a few reason you should hire a professional dog trainer. Believe me I could write for days on this subject. Stay tuned for tips on how to hire a great trainer!