Before You Hire a Dog Trainer—What You Really Need to Know

When you choose a dog trainer with a "certification," you might assume you're hiring someone who has invested time, energy, and education into becoming a trusted professional. And often, that’s true. But it’s not always the case—and it’s important that you dig a little deeper to ensure your dog is in truly knowledgeable, experienced hands.

The Truth About Dog Trainer Certifications in the U.S.

Right now, there is no national governing body regulating dog training in the United States. No state requires professional dog trainers to be certified, and anyone can legally call themselves a trainer—with or without formal education, experience, or results.

What’s more, there are a growing number of organizations offering “certifications”—but they vary widely in quality and credibility. Some require only an open-book online exam with little to no hands-on experience. Others grant certification after a written test without requiring any coursework or practical application. Pay the fee, pass a simple test, and you're "certified."

Unfortunately, this means that many trainers enter the field with minimal hands-on experience and limited understanding of canine behavior. In the wrong hands, training can do more harm than good—leading to new behavior problems, confusion, or even emotional distress for your dog.

So What Can You Do?

It’s up to you—the dog owner—to do the research. Here are some practical tips to help you find a qualified, trustworthy trainer:

Tips for Choosing the Right Dog Trainer

• Research Their Certification
  Google the organization and check what's actually required to earn that title. (Note: the term “Behaviorist” should only be used by someone with a PhD in Animal Behavior.)

• Talk to Trusted Sources
  Ask friends, veterinarians, groomers, or pet professionals for referrals. Online reviews are helpful but not always reliable.

• Prepare Questions in Advance
  Ask:

  • What methods and tools do they use—or avoid?

  • What is their experience with your dog’s breed, age, and behavioral challenges?

  • Will the person you’re speaking to be the one actually working with your dog?

• Ask for References
  Request at least two client referrals—and follow up with them.

• For Board & Train Programs:

  • Where will your dog stay?

  • How many dogs do they train at a time?

  • Will dogs interact—and how?

• Review Contracts Carefully

  • Watch for red flags like nondisclosure agreements.

  • Understand the deposit and refund policy.

  • Be cautious of vague terms like “lifetime guarantee”—what does that really mean?

Bottom Line:

Not all certifications are created equal.
Choose a trainer with real credentials, hands-on experience, and a commitment to both education and ethical training. Your dog—and your relationship with them—deserves nothing less.

*Carolina Canine Training’s Certification*

Starmark Academy for Professional Dog Trainers sets the bar very high, and all graduates must meet written and hands on requirements after an intensive course of study in order to receive certification.  The curriculum and graduation requirements at Starmark Academy are regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission’s Department of Colleges and Career Schools which holds all state colleges and trade schools to the same standards. The Canine Training & Behavior Specialist diploma is the highest degree of certification offered at Starmark. Not only is Liz a certified Canine Training & Behavior Specialists, but she is also a former Academy Director & Lead Instructor to over 300 aspiring dog trainers working to achieve the same certification.