Choosing the Right Dog Training: Why Local Expertise Beats a Corporate Model

At All Around Adventures, we’ve proudly served our community for over seven years. We provide top-notch dog walking and pet care services. Last year, we even won Best Petcare Company (though they got rid of our category, sadly!). We understand that finding the right training for your dog is just as crucial as their daily care. That’s why I want to raise awareness about the different types of dog training available!

Understanding Dog Training Options

In our town, a few companies are corporate, such as PetSmart, PetCo, and OffLeash Canine. However, there are also many local dog trainers and businesses, like Diverse Dog Training and Victory Road Dog Training. Finding the right fit for you and your dog is essential. Here are some tips and advice based on my experiences working for both a corporate dog training company (PetSmart) and a local company (Diverse Dog Training). Spoiler alert: always go local! 🐶

Personalized Training Tailored to Your Dog

When you choose a corporate company, you often receive a cookie-cutter model of training. As a former trainer for PetSmart, I can assure you that these trainers follow strict guidelines. They have booklets, pamphlets, and bullet points detailing what to do at each session. Their resources are limited, and if your dog's needs don't align with the corporate structure, you may not receive the help you need.

Corporate trainers are typically hired by third-party companies. They undergo training that lasts anywhere from one week to two months, often online or with someone local. These trainers usually work inside pet stores or as part of a franchise. If a company claims their trainers have thousands of hours of experience, remember that board-and-train programs count every hour toward that total, even if it’s just a 24-hour program.

In contrast, a locally owned business is often run by the dog trainer you meet and work with. These trainers have years of hands-on experience and likely hold several certifications. They continue to learn daily because dog training is not just a job for them; it's their passion.

For instance, at Diverse Dog Training, you work directly with Cody, a seasoned trainer with over ten years of experience. He became certified in a dog training school and constantly learns and adapts his methods to fit each dog's unique personality and your specific goals. Whether it’s mastering basic obedience, improving leash manners, or tackling more challenging behaviors, Cody’s hands-on approach ensures your dog receives individualized attention.

Most locally owned businesses strive to work with your dog's strengths. Finding the right trainer for you is just as important as finding the right one for your dog. There are two primary training philosophies: the All Positive training world, which emphasizes treats and soft discipline, and the Balanced training world, which uses treats, discipline when necessary, and praise when it works best. Your feelings and your dog's needs will determine which route you take.

Transparency You Can Count On

One major concern with corporate board-and-train programs is the lack of visibility into where your dog is staying. Often, these programs don’t allow you to see the trainer’s home or facility. This lack of transparency can leave you wondering about your dog’s environment, care, and daily routine.

Red Flag Number 1: If you cannot drop off and pick up your dog at the training facility, be cautious. All trainers who train your dog when you are not around should be transparent about the living situation, training environment, and overall care of your pet. Some trainers meet you in a park, take your dog, and then transport them to their home. Be wary of this practice; your dogs are family, and you wouldn’t drop your child off with a stranger in a park for daycare.

Rooted in Our Community

At All Around Adventures, we are committed to supporting local businesses that share our values of trust, care, and community. Choosing a local dog trainer over a big corporate company or franchise is always our recommendation.

Red Flags to Avoid

When choosing a trainer, here are a few ways to distinguish the good from the bad:

1. Drop-off Location: If you are dropping off for board-and-train, ensure you drop off at the trainer's location where your pet will be staying.

   
   

2. Initial Consultation: A great trainer will offer advice over the phone and not make you wait for your first session. They value helping customers over making a quick dollar. While they need to pay their bills, don’t take advantage of their generosity. They shouldn’t pressure you into purchasing more sessions than necessary. If you don’t see results after the first training session (or the first package of 3-6 sessions), consider looking for a different trainer. Unless you enjoy regular visits, more than six sessions are rarely needed if you follow your trainer's advice and training plan. If you adhere to their guidance and see no changes, it may be time to find a new trainer.

   
   

3. Communication Style: When contacting a dog trainer, they should not spam you with calls, texts, and emails. They understand that there are options available and will respect your decision-making process. If you receive excessive follow-ups, you might be dealing with a corporate company or a trainer who may not be the right fit.

   
   

4. Guarantees: If a trainer guarantees they can help your dog over the phone without meeting you and your pet, it’s time to look elsewhere. Experienced trainers know that certain environments may not allow a dog to be "fixed." If they haven’t met you and your pet, they cannot make guarantees. Remember, dog training is more about training you to be consistent with your pet than the other way around.

   
   

Conclusion: Setting Your Dog Up for Success

Ready to set your dog up for success? At All Around Adventures, we first and foremost recommend Diverse Dog Training. Give Cody a call today to schedule a consultation. For all your pet care needs—dog walking, cat sitting, or drop-in visits—trust All Around Adventures to keep your pets happy and healthy. Let’s work together to provide your pet with the best care and training possible!