BEHAVIOR ISSUES NEED MORE THAN A “TRAINER”

As previously mentioned, many classes are run by volunteers of a club or people who show their dogs, but generally not by professional trainers or behavior consultants. If a dog is stable and the owner is knowledgeable and experienced with dog shows they may only need run through type classes. However, if a dog is having issues, particularly issues like being fearful or reactive with other dogs a behavior consultant experienced in dealing with these issues will be needed.

In my experience as a dog trainer and behavior consultant specializing in show dogs, most people teaching classes do not know how to address and deal with real behavior issues. I have worked with clients whose efforts and whose dogs were set back due to the advice of someone teaching a class who does not understand how to deal with behavior issues.