Why dog trainers aren't cheap

The cost of living is expensive. It's undeniable. And with the responsibility of owning a dog, no doubt the costs rack up here too. Food, grooming, vet bills, pet insurance, worming, flea treatments, vaccinations, registration, toys, bedding.. the list goes on.

So then you realise your dog's behaviour isn't where you want it to be. Perhaps it just doesn't seem to listen to you. It doesn't come back when you call. Maybe it's overreactive around other dogs, it pulls like crazy when you go for a walk, or even worse, it's started to growl and show concerning behaviour to you or your family. What is your go to? A dog trainer or behaviourist of course!

There are two types of queries: A) Straight up - "How much do your services cost?" or B) We have a chat, we understand the problem and explain how we can fix it and then before we lock in the appointment, the question of how much it will cost comes up again, and quite often the pleading excited voice that can see the light at the end of the behaviour tunnel becomes deflated and somewhat confused. "Wow, I didn't realise it cost that much".

Of course, there are many trainers out there. Some are good, some are great and some may not be what you need at all. And of course, sometimes you're not necessarily going to get what you paid for. But to make it clear, there is a reason why many (not all, but many) good trainers do not give advice for free. While I do not speak for all trainers, let this be a bit of an explanation for the cost breakdown for the reputable, accredited trainers out there.

1) We pay a lot to get our accreditation. Yes, there are some "cornflake" accreditations out there. The NDTF (National Dog Trainers Federation) is the only government accredited dog trainers course in Australia. Any trainer who does not have the NDTF qualification, has not satisfactorily completed the units that satisfy the government course.

This course in itself costs a pretty penny. Not to mention the time, study, work and dedication students have to put in, in order to pass.

2) Trainers who want to excel in their craft often attend and participate in additional workshops and classes to update the latest techniques and hear from legends in the industry. A one day workshop can cost in the vicinity of $400. That a trainer pays from their own pocket. To be able to further assist you, and your dog.

3) Salary. For many trainers, this is their sole income. Would you expect a plumber to come to your house and fix your sink for nothing? Even if it takes them 10 minutes? No - because that is their livelihood. Same for many in the dog training industry. There are no penalties, paid sick days, paid holidays - if we don't turn up, we don't get paid. And we all know, in today's society, we all need to pay the bills.

4) Insurance. All (good and reputable) dog trainers have insurance. Should your dog injure someone, another animal or cause significant damage whilst in our care/under our instruction, we can be held liable. Insurance isn't cheap.

5) Tools of the trade. How much does a carpenter have in terms of tools? Well how much does a dog trainer have in terms of tools. Many of us have more leads, collars, treats, and equipment to fit all dogs of all sizes with all needs. Imagine a trainer turning up and saying "oh sorry, I only have one collar that fits a Poodle - hope that will go over your Rottweiler's head!" - No, we need to cater for all.

6) Safety. We obviously do our very best to avoid being injured, but with certain dogs, especially ones that we know really need our help, we are undoubtedly placed in compromising positions in terms of our safety. We may get bitten, scratched, bowled over, pulled, pushed - we put our bodies on the line to help you. And recognise that due to this, like a professional athlete, our bodies often pay the consequence. 

7) Last but not least - experience. If you have a cold, you go to a GP. If you have a phycological problem, you see a psychologist. If your dog is injured, you take it to a vet. If it has behaviour issues, you see a trainer/behaviourist who understands and can assist with these needs. 

Remember, like with any goods or services, you have the right to shop around and ask questions - it is important to have realistic expectations and question the trainer of what they anticipate a long term training plan will look like. For some needs, a session or two may be enough - some dogs will require more visits and dedication. 

Did you know, the best way to avoid exorbitant costs on training is to listen to your trainer, ask questions so you understand the methods and techniques they are using and commit to working your dog everyday with these lessons so you don't have to start from scratch every time your trainer visits.

A good trainer doesn't train your dog. 

A good trainer teaches the owner how to train the dog.

Always remember, having a well behaved, rounded, confident and balanced dog isn't about the money you're paying today. It's about the investment for your dog's life.

Is there any better investment than that?

www.k9evolution.com.au