Manners & basics
Group classes or private lessons for puppies and adult dogs.
Step 1: Define what you need
Behavior problems
Fear, anxiety, barking, reactivity, aggression, which needs a professional with behavior experience.
Specialty skills
Service dog, therapy dog, off-leash, sports.
Convenience
In-home, board-and-train or online.
Step 2: Check methods
Ask exactly what tools and techniques the trainer uses. Prefer trainers who use rewards and management and who avoid shock, prong, choke and intimidation. Read methods compared for details.
Step 3: Verify credentials
| Credential | What it signals |
|---|---|
| CPDT-KA / CPDT-KSA (CCPDT) | Exam-based certification with logged experience and continuing education |
| KPA-CTP, CTC, VSA, etc. | Completion of structured reward-based academy programs |
| IAABC (ADT, CDBC) | Assessed trainers and behavior consultants |
| DACVB / CAAB / CAB | Veterinary behaviorist or applied animal behaviorist, for serious behavior cases |
No credential guarantees quality, and some excellent trainers are self-taught. But none at all, plus no references, is a warning sign.
Step 4: Ask the right questions
- What methods and equipment will you use on my dog?
- What are your credentials, and how do you keep learning?
- Have you handled problems like mine? What happened?
- How will I be involved, and what homework will I do?
- What results are realistic, and in what timeframe?
- What are the full costs, contract terms and refund policy?
- Can I observe a class or speak to past clients?
Step 5: Watch for red flags
- Guaranteed results or 'fixed in a week' promises
- Shock, prong or choke collars as a first resort
- 'Alpha', 'dominance' or 'pack leader' explanations
- Refusal to explain methods or let you observe
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Trains your dog without involving you
- No references, no credentials, no contract
Step 6: Trust your dog's response
A good trainer's sessions leave your dog engaged, not fearful, shut down or physically stressed. If your dog looks scared or you feel uncomfortable, stop and find someone else.
Compare trainers
Get matched with independent Allentown trainers.
Tell us about your dog and what you need. We'll pass your request to independent trainers who serve Allentown and the Lehigh Valley and who may be able to help. Compare them with our checklist before you decide. It's free, with no obligation.
- Free to request
- Independent trainers, not affiliated with this site
- Use our checklist to vet every candidate
- We never charge you for a referral