Dog training is an unregulated industry, so anyone can call themselves a trainer. If you're searching for a dog trainer in Wilmington, Woburn, Reading, Andover or anywhere north of Boston, these seven questions will help you choose with confidence.
1. Where does training happen?
Group classes, board-and-train and in-home training all have a place. In-home training fixes problems where they actually happen, at your front door, on your street, in your kitchen, and it teaches you to handle your own dog, which is what makes results last.
2. What methods do you use, and why?
A good trainer can explain their approach clearly and adapt it to each dog. Ours is balanced: overwhelmingly positive and reward-based, with fair accountability when it's needed. Ask how tools are introduced and how they're phased in for owners.
3. What experience do you have with dogs like mine?
Puppies, reactive dogs and high-drive working breeds all need different skill sets. Kurtis's background includes the Shield K9 system and decoy work under experienced protection-dog trainers, so high-energy shepherds and malinois are right at home with us.
4. Can I see results?
Ask for videos of real client dogs, not just staged demonstrations. You can see our training results on the homepage.
5. Will you teach me, or just the dog?
Training only sticks if you know how to maintain it. Every Roman's K9 lesson includes hands-on owner coaching.
6. Is pricing clear?
You should know exactly what you're paying for before you start. Our pricing guide lists every program, the number of lessons and the price.
7. Do you offer a free consultation?
A trainer should meet your dog before recommending a program. We offer a free in-home consultation anywhere in our service area.
Ready to talk about your dog? Contact Roman's K9 or call (978) 729-1812.
About the author: Kurtis O'Byrne is the founder of Roman's K9, providing in-home dog training in Wilmington, MA and surrounding towns. More about Kurtis.
