How to choose a dog trainer?

It's almost two years since I launched Lead & Follow Dog Training, and I've had a few people ask why I chose the name, and the answer is that I feel it describes the kind of trainer I am.

I also like that there's a nod to one of my favourite non-dog things - dancing. Back in my 20s (so, just last week), I danced several nights a week at my local ballroom dancing school, where they taught one partner to lead, and the other partner to follow. For me, that's how dog training should be, and how I like to teach. You show your dog something, make it easy for them to succeed, and watch them follow your lead. In Mantrailing the dog follows the scent of the person who has hidden, and we can't see it. So your dog leads and you follow. See - we're back to Lead & Follow, I think it kind of named itself!

Just as those who dance ballroom should enjoy it, training your dog should also be enjoyable, and I do everything I can to make it so. That's the kind of trainer I am. If you want to be a good ballroom dancer, you need a teacher or coach who can not just teach you the basics, but also help you improve, show you the more difficult things, and help you succeed. After over two decades of teaching/coaching, this is how I see my role as a dog trainer too. It's not just about showing you the basics, it's more about which basics are appropriate for your dog and what you want to achieve, and how to teach both you and them, based on your learning style, and that of your dog (yes - dogs have personalities too!).

Both dance teachers and dog trainers can have a strict style, or they can be kind. It's up to you which kind you prefer for you and your dog. Personally I will always choose kind. When I'm being taught a dance move I want the teacher to be clear, fun and not embarrass or punish me if I mess up! That's also the kind of dog trainer I like, and the kind of dog trainer I am - I don't force you or your dog to do anything you're not comfortable with. I find ways to create and update your training plan so it's leading you to where you want to be, but in a way that you both enjoy, and can get on board with. And above all, my methods are kind, force-free and backed by the latest science.

So have a think about the kind of trainer you want to work with, and the kind of trainer you want to be for your dog. And maybe glance over at your dog and think about the kind of trainer they'd like to work with. Their answer may possibly be "the one with the tastiest treats!", but I guarantee you they would also wish for you to be kind.

If you're looking for a trainer to work with, and you think I could fit in with your idea of how you want to train, get in touch and let's have a chat - whatsApp, email, phone, it's up to you - I'll take your lead!

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