December 10th, 2019

Do I really need a trainer for my puppy? 

I'm asked this question frequently by folks who have some dog experience, "Why do I need to hire a trainer?  Ive already trained all my dogs before."  
We all look in the mirror to make sure our clothes look like they fit, make sure we aren't walking out of the house with two different colored socks on, etc.. A dog trainer is your mirror. They will coach you into being the best partner for your dog and to set you both up for success.  In addition, your dog trainer is a PROFESSIONAL.  They've studied many different training tools, dog behavior and motivation and they will use the best training tools and methods that will work for your dog.  

Hiring a dog trainer doesnt mean that you dont know about raising a dog.  Not all dogs develop and learn in the same manner.  All dogs go through certain stages, such as fear periods, where you need the guidance of a trainer to correctly identify what's happening and form a plan to get through it.  

Even if you have some experience with dogs, nothing can compare to someone who has dedicated their life to working with dogs and their people.  In the Potrero contract, all my puppy owners agree to attend a basic obedience class immediately with their puppy.  This is so that you all start off on the best foot and paw!