If your dog needs professional training, or if you just want to attend classes with other dog owners, make sure you and your dog attend a top training school. There's no reason to waste your time and money on below average instruction, because there are plenty of wonderful dog trainers in the world. The best trainers will allow you to observe a class before signing up. Here are three things you should look for:

1. Dog Trainers Should Make the Classes Fun!

   Dogs have the mind of a small child. Do you know many three-year-old kids who can sit through an hour of mundane classroom instruction without losing concentration? Me neither. That is why pre-school and kindergarten classes are supposed to be fun! Kids learn the alphabet through singing. They expand their minds through art. Funny-looking puppets on television teach them to count. Dogs also like to have fun, and their attention will last much longer in a fun class. Never forget that you as the owner should also enjoy the class.

2. Dog Trainers Should Love Dogs and People!

   Any trainer who tries to condition your dog through physical punishment is not only inhumane but also outdated in his or her teaching methods. Dogs learn best from people who want to reward them for obeying, not those who try to instill fear through punishment. Speak to the instructor before signing up for his or her class. If he or she for any reason rubs you the wrong way, there's a good chance your dog will have a similar impression. Training sessions led by compassionate and caring people are the most productive.

3. Good Dog Trainers Receive Rave Reviews!

   When you observe a class, strike up a conversation with one of the participants. Nobody knows how effective a class will be more than current students. If you speak to a few people whose dogs have shown behavioral problems similar to yours, and the instruction has worked, there's a strong chance your dog will also benefit from the class.
   

Just as you would want your children to attend the best schools, your dog should learn from the best dog trainers. If an instructor uses humane training methods, seems like a good-spirited person, and has satisfied customers, he or she is the person you want training your dog.