How do I find a
trainer?
One of the best sources is the breeder you are getting your
dog from. If they personally don’t know of a good training
facility, or you live out of the area, they may have
contacts that can help you. If not, contact your local
Basenji club and the BCOA. Your veterinarian and the local
human society may also be good resources.
Schedule some time to attend obedience and agility trials in
your area. Observe the dogs who appear to be happy in the
ring and ask the handlers about trainers in the area.
Back to questions
What training
techniques work best with Basenjis?
Basenjis have a reputation for being difficult to train. The
reality is that they learn quickly—they simply consider the
pros and cons of responding. Your job is to offer a
compelling reason why they should do what you want them to
do.
Basenjis learn best when positive training techniques are
used. Trainers who use positive methods will show you how to
prompt, or lure, your dog into performing the desired
behavior and reward them.
Back to questions
What should I ask
when I interview a trainer?
Ask for references from clients who have taken their
courses—even if the trainer comes highly recommended by your
breeder, vet, or best friend.
Ask about the trainer’s background, years of experience and
areas of expertise. You’ll want to find a knowledgeable
trainer who has experience in your area of interest.
Ask if they are affiliated with any breed clubs or training
organizations. Being a member of an organization doesn’t
necessarily confer a seal of approval, but you might want to
ask why a trainer is unaffiliated.
Ask about their continuing education. A good trainer loves
dogs and cares deeply about them—a committed trainer will
continue to educate themselves about dog behavior and
training techniques through attending seminars, conferences,
and workshops.
Ask them to tell you how they train and what breeds they
have trained. Let them know you have a Basenji and note
their response. Trainers who have worked primarily with
Labs, Border Collies, and Poodles may not be prepared for a
Basenji.
If you have a puppy, ask if they have classes geared towards
puppies.
Ask what the course will cover.
Check to see what the vaccine requirements are for dogs and
for puppies in particular. Talk with your vet and breeder if
some requirements seem excessive or lax.
Ask if you can audit a class. You should be able to watch
any of their classes without notice. If it is not allowed or
encouraged, ask why.
Back to questions
What should I look
for when auditing a class?
Watch to see how the trainer interacts with the students and
the dogs.
Do they appear to enjoy both the people and the dogs?
Are people and dogs having fun?
Does the trainer use humane techniques on dog and owner
alike?
Will you be comfortable asking questions if you decide to
train with them?
Are the instructions clear?
Is adequate time given for all class members to understand
the instructions?
If it is a large class are there enough instructors to give
individual help when needed?
Ask class members what they think of the class and the
instructor.
Back to questions
Should I enroll my
Basenji in puppy kindergarten?
In short, yes! Puppy Kindergarten is typically a series of
low pressure classes, geared to their age group. You and
your pup will learn some basic communication skills. The
trainer should be able and willing to address basic
questions about mouthing, house training, and redirecting
exuberant puppy behavior as well as walking on a loose lead,
coming when called and sitting politely.
Back to questions
I’ve enrolled in a
class and I’m not sure about some of the techniques.
If at anytime, you are uncomfortable with what you are being
asked to do with your dog, ask for an explanation. If you
are still uncomfortable, simply say you are not going to do
it. Unless you have complete confidence in your trainer and
their relationship with your dog, do not allow them to
handle your dog for you. As a last resort you can walk out.
You should not be required to do anything you are not
comfortable with.
Back to questions
Points to remember
Training your dog is a means to developing a shared
language—your own way of connecting with your dog.
The trainer is there to train you to communicate with your
dog. If you don’t click with the trainer, neither you or
your dog will learn a thing.
Be sure the trainer gives clear explanations and ample time
to practice. You can read all the books you want, but only a
living breathing coach can give real-time insights.
Trust your instincts. You are responsible for the safety and
well being of your dog.
Have fun! And make sure your dog does too! |
