Red Flag Green Flag

This blog discusses red flags and green flags in the dog training industry to help pet owners make informed choices. Red flags include trainers with no formal education, reliance on aversive tools, belittling owners, using dominance-based language, offering guarantees, lacking continued education, and neglecting the dog's well-being. On the other hand, green flags highlight the importance of education, positive reinforcement practices, membership in professional organizations, a focus on the dog's well-being, continued education, a non-judgmental attitude, and transparency about training methods. Choosing a dog trainer with green flags ensures a positive and effective training experience for both the owner and the dog.

Let’s look at some of the red flags that come up in dog training:

• No education but relies solely on experience. (How do you know what they are doing is right?!)

• Slip leads

• Prong Collars

• Choke Collars

• Shock collars or E-collars.

• Belittles owner for not being good enough.

• Uses words like alpha, pack, corrections & balanced.

• Wants to utilise all 4 quadrants.

• Offers guarantees.

• Lack of continued education.

• No focus on the dog’s wellbeing.

• Is secretive about their methods.

• Any form of “training” leashes.

Now let’s look at some of the green flags:

• Education! A dog trainer needs to be able to explain how dogs learn.

• Memberships of professional organisations like the Pet Professional Guild as an example.

• Focuses on the dog’s wellbeing in terms of physical and mental health.

• Uses a clicker.

• Uses treats or toys.

• Recommends a harness to take the pressure off your dog’s neck.

• Focused on continuing education.

• Is non-judgmental of the owner.

• Willing to talk about their methods and why they use what they use.

• Doesn’t offer any guarantees.

Navigating the world of dog training requires a discerning eye to distinguish between red flags and green flags. Recognizing warning signs, such as a lack of education, use of aversive tools, or guarantees, can help pet owners steer clear of potentially harmful practices.

Contact me if you need help with your dog.

Happy training!