How do you know if a trainer is qualified to train your dog? The most important qualifications are formal schooling and years on the training field.

For over 2 years, I was formally schooled in dog behaviors and training techniques, and I was blessed with opportunities to do additional apprenticeships with some of the most learned trainers in the world. I have been in business a long time, from initially owning a boarding kennel to owning my own business breeding and training police and protection German shepherds, to now owning my business for almost a decade training strictly family dogs. Obviously, I have an extensive history with German shepherds, having owned, bred, and trained them for over twenty years. But, I am familiar with all breeds, and although my clients continue to challenge me, in most cases, I can train any dog you’ve got–from Yorkies to Dobermans. The table below details my formal experience.

I do not have a training building deliberately. I train your dog where you live and go. Training buildings limit the experiences dogs get, by limiting distractions and failing to simulate the environment where you and your dogs naturally go (and make mistakes). In Colorado where I lived for years, I trained in the mountains on trails; in fields and in woods with deer and elk; and in the parks with lots of other dogs, kids, and people playing sports, because this is how people lived with their dogs. In Texas, I train in homes, parks, woods, neighborhoods, parking lots, stores, and even on farms for people struggling with their dogs chasing their farm animals. I go with you where you and your dogs go, and we train for all the situations you encounter. In my experience, this is the most successful way to train to get a dog that is neutral everywhere.

All my training is off-leash. Ultimately, this allows you and your dog the opportunity to develop a deep bond and to be able to experience life together without a tether. There are many benefits to this, such as having the peace of mind that your dog will come when you call; knowing you can place your dog out of harm’s way, and he will stay there; and feeling confident in your dog’s behavior when you do not have access to a leash. This training gives you and your dogs flexibility and increased opportunities.

As a veterinarian, there is nothing more pleasant than walking into an exam room and greeting a well behaved, well socialized, and confident dog. I know I can complete a thorough physical exam and perform any necessary procedures with ease and without endangering myself or my staff in any way. The encounter goes smoothly, quickly, and efficiently. I have plenty of time to discuss any health concerns and treatment plans with the pet owner before feeling rushed to my next waiting appointment. Most importantly, the dog enjoys the visit and leaves the office with a pat on the head, a tail wag, and if interested, a few treats. This sets us up for a lifetime of pleasant veterinary exams.

Unfortunately, we often encounter a less ideal situation. Frequently, my patient has rarely left his/her home environment, has had no training and is terrified. In spite of my attempts to ease him/her with a gentle voice and some food bribes, the experience is frightening. Unfortunately, due to time constraints and the necessity to perform the exam and necessary procedures in that visit, we are forced to restrain the pet, place a muzzle, and reinforce the dog’s opinion that the veterinary clinic is a scary place.

Due to the extra time needed to try to settle the dog and take the necessary measures to keep myself and my staff safe, I have far less time to discuss my findings and recommendations with the owner. These animals often leave the clinic too nervous for us to make amends with affection or treats. We have set the patient up for a lifetime of unpleasant veterinary exams.

Too often, we don’t have the opportunity to address behavioral issues until problems develop. Any trainer will tell you that behavioral problems are much harder and more expensive to correct than prevent. Starting your dog in a well-designed training program with an experienced trainer is paramount in maximizing the enjoyment you and your pet get out of your relationship. A good training program should address not only obedience but socialization in a variety of settings to improve the dog’s confidence outside the situations to which he/she is accustomed. Your dog should be trained to allow basic handling of feet, ears, mouth, and touching anywhere on his/her body. The sooner you get started with this, the less likely it is that your pet will develop problem behaviors. Your relationship with your dog will be much more pleasant, and those dreaded veterinary visits can be enjoyable for all.

- Dr. Lena Roeder, DVM

Dr. Roeder is the owner and one of the veterinarians at Dublin Animal Hospital.

She has extensive experience in treating small animals and exotics.