Opinions on dog trainers?

Hi everyone

I am thinking about getting a trainer in. I know I should continue with training him myself but I really feel like I am fighting a losing battle.

As he has never had any sort of training from a pup (from hs previous mummy) I think he is very set in his ways? I mean he doesnt even play with his toys, he doesnt have a clue what they are so I am guessing she never bothered with him at all! Not to mention the fact he didnt even have a lead when I picked him up poor thing.

But anyway, what is everyones opinions on this? Is it a waste of money? I just need help and pointers on toilet training and stopping him from chewing when we are not there.

I went to a dog trainer a few years back i learned a lot from them, if you are having problems why not give them a go

Going to a class might be a good idea if you have one locally. Or there are some very good books about on basic training, even some videos online.

Be careful though, as anyone can call themselves a trainer.

Would just say that at 10 months of age they can be quite a handful and you can feel that you will never get there, but you will

Thanks Lizzie, it does feel like that a bit! Because I havent had him from an early age I feel like whatever I try and teach him he doesnt understand because he has never been trained before?

We took Rocky to some training classes about a year ago, we learned quite a bit and I'm sure he picked up a few things too. Guess they are as much for the owner as the dog.

I got one in for Lizzy. It was just a one off for her, we spent a couple of hours just talking through all the problems we had and what we could do to help solve or manage them.

I found that in alot of cases I was doing the right thing, but having the support of a trainer actually telling me that was what helped me get through the difficult stuff.

So, definitely give it a go. If nothing else, you may get a confidence boost which can be invaluable

I recommend a trainer. I had never raised a puppy before and only had adult dogs that were already trained. I think it's worth it to teach you how to deal with situations and learn HOW to teach a puppy basic obedience.

After you get the hang of it you don't necessarily need them anymore (unless you need help with specific issues).

Group training classes on the other hand I think are always good if possible.

I did a 1 to 1 with a trainer to assess Tommy and then joined her class , learnt lots, it really depends on the trainer though

I'm all for trainers! I don't think there is anything like that over here. If there is, there's not too many.

But if someone is able to help of course go for it!

Good trainer definitely. The class we go to is run by an experienced Staffy handler. ( President of North of Scotland SBT Club )
Bacchus is my first staff and I realise he understands much more than he lets on, as becomes obvious when he is hungry and I have treats. Yours may be choosing to act stupid because he's so clever.
Make him work for any treats he'll love you for it.

Get to a good trainer! If nothing else you'll learn some new tips, it's great for socializing, (human and dog!) could well bring Alfie out of his shell if it's a good positive reinforced training method, he'll learn to play, have fun and you learn how to interact and encourage the best in them. We've done classes... we still do, this year we're looking at starting some agility, it's great for bonding. Good luck!