The Humane Society of the United States recently came out with a list of "red flags" to look for when choosing a Trainer. These are great tips and I'd like to share them with you.

When interviewing a potential trainer for your dog, if the trainer indicates any of the following – consider that a "red flag" and keep interviewing more trainers until you find the right one for your dog.

Trainers that use electronic aids like shock collars

Trainers that recommend rubbing a dog's nose in an "accident" for housetraining.

Trainers that raise their voices. Screaming is not training.

If your dog is afraid of a trainer, you should be too.

Trainers that try to physically dominate you or your dog.

Trainers that recommend choke collars.

Trainers that hit or kick your dog. This is unacceptable.

For more information on training, please read Obedience Training Philosophies: What Kind Is Best for Your Dog?