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Top 10 Most Asked Questions by New Dog Training Clients (with Answers)

Below are the most common questions new clients ask dog trainers, presented in order of frequency, with clear, expert-backed answers.

Woman appearing thoughtful with question marks above her head, representing common questions asked by new dog training clients.
Discover the top 10 most frequently asked questions by new dog training clients and get expert answers to help start your dog's training journey with confidence. Perfect for first-time pet owners seeking guidance.

1. What training methods do you use?

Answer: Most reputable trainers use positive reinforcement, which rewards desired behaviors to encourage repetition. Modern dog training has moved away from punishment-based or dominance training, focusing instead on building trust between owner and dog123.

2. How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Answer: Use a consistent verbal command like “heel,” and reward your dog when they walk calmly at your side. Training with a harness and keeping sessions short and frequent help reinforce good habits. Avoid yanking or punishing—patience and rewards yield the best results43.


3. Why does my dog ignore my commands?

Answer: Your dog may be confused, distracted, or not fully understand what’s expected. Ensure commands are given clearly and consistently, use treats or praise for compliance, and gradually increase difficulty as your dog masters commands. Keep sessions positive and short43.


4. How do I stop unwanted behaviors like barking or chewing?

Answer: First, identify the root cause—boredom, anxiety, or lack of exercise are common contributors. Redirect your dog’s focus with another command or toy, and reward calm behavior. Consistency and management of triggers are key; never punish after the fact, as dogs won’t understand43.


5. What are the basic commands I should teach my dog?

Answer: The foundational commands are: sit, down, stay, come, no, off, and heel. Start with “sit,” as it’s simple and helps establish communication for further training53.


6. How long does it take to train a dog?

Answer: There’s no universal timeline. Puppies can start learning as young as eight weeks old, but training is lifelong. Consistency, patience, and the dog’s age, breed, and previous experiences affect progress. Daily, short, focused sessions yield the best results35.


7. Should I use treats as rewards, or is that bribery?

Answer: Treats are not bribery—they are effective for teaching new behaviors. Once a behavior is learned, gradually switch to praise or occasional treats to maintain the behavior without dependency43.


8. Can all dogs be trained, even older or stubborn dogs?

Answer: Yes. Training is effective at any age. While early training makes some behaviors easier to teach, older dogs are very capable of learning new commands with patience and consistency3.


9. What should I do if my dog is “hyper” or overly energetic?

Answer: Provide more physical exercise and mental stimulation—walks, play, and puzzle toys can help. Teach self-settling behaviors with commands like “settle” or by rewarding calmness. A structured routine also reduces hyperactivity43.


10. Should I act as “alpha” or be dominant?

Answer: No. The alpha/dominance theory is outdated and can harm your relationship with your dog. Focus on leadership, consistency, and positive reinforcement to foster trust and cooperation, not fear4.


Quick Reference Table

Rank

Question

Short Answer

1

What training methods do you use?

Positive reinforcement; reward good behavior for trust and results123.

2

How do I stop leash pulling?

Use a command, reward calm walking, use harness, be patient43.

3

Why does my dog ignore me?

Ensure clarity, consistency, and positive rewards43.

4

How to fix barking/chewing?

Identify triggers, redirect, reward calm, never punish after the fact43.

5

What are the basic commands?

Sit, stay, come, heel, down, off, no53.

6

How long does training take?

Varies; start young, short sessions, lifelong consistency35.

7

Are treats bribery?

No, they help teach; fade gradually once learned43.

8

Can older dogs be trained?

Yes, with patience and consistent methods3.

9

My dog is hyper, what to do?

More exercise, routine, and teaching calm behaviors43.

10

Should I be the “alpha”?

No, use leadership and rewards, not dominance or force4.

  1. https://www.theacademyofpetcareers.com/blog/questions-ask-dog-trainer/

  2. https://enlightio.com/questions-to-ask-a-dog-trainer

  3. https://offleashk9oklahoma.com/dog-training-questions-answered/

  4. https://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/blog/pet-training/11-common-questions-dog-trainers-are-asked/

  5. https://www.masterclass.com/articles/puppy-training-faq

  6. https://www.reddit.com/r/OpenDogTraining/comments/ydno2c/hey_all_professional_dog_trainers_could_you_tell/

  7. https://www.pawsandreflect.blog/p/the-very-first-questions-a-dog-trainer-should-ask

  8. https://www.pawsitivepupdogtrainingaustin.com/training-questionnaire

  9. https://www.themoderndogtrainer.net/questions-your-dog-training-clients/

  10. https://www.reddit.com/r/Dogtraining/comments/13lj98u/new_dog_trainer_about_to_meet_my_very_first_dog/

  11. https://www.tryinteract.com/blog/dog-training-quiz-questions/

  12. https://www.k-9culture.com/post/9-questions-to-ask-before-hiring-a-dog-trainer

  13. https://www.veryimportantpaws.com/dog-training-frequently-asked-questions/

  14. https://dogtrainersumbrella.com/blog/know-your-criteria-for-new-clients-or-youll-get-clients-you-hate/

  15. https://www.k9magazine.com/most-common-dog-training-questions/

  16. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H65IxDyWnyE

  17. https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/what-you-should-ask-a-dog-trainer

  18. https://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/blog/pet-training/11-common-questions-dog-trainers-are-asked/amp/

  19. https://www.yoursmartpup.com/faq/

  20. https://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/blog/pet-training/interviewing-a-dog-trainer/



 
 

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