How to Choose the Right Dog Trainer (Without Losing Your Mind)

By Samantha Scarborough

Owner/Head Trainer

A Dogs Life Inc | Charlotte, NC

Let’s be real—finding the right dog trainer can feel like dating. There are lots of options, some red flags, and a whole lot of, “Will this person get my dog?”

And if you’ve already Googled “dog trainer Charlotte NC”, you’ve probably been overwhelmed with listings that all sound the same.

Positive reinforcement only!

We do balanced training!

Certified trainer!

Guaranteed results!

(Wait—are we training dogs or selling vacuum cleaners?)

Here’s the deal: Your dog isn’t a robot. You’re not a robot. And dog training should never feel like it’s one-size-fits-all.

That’s why choosing the right trainer matters—a lot. It’s not just about obedience. It’s about building a relationship that works in your real, everyday life.

"If dog training was just about pushing buttons, we’d all have perfect pups by now."

So how do you choose someone who’s actually a good fit for your dog and for you?

1. Look for someone who listens to you

You live with your dog, not the trainer. So if a trainer isn’t asking about your lifestyle, your struggles, or your goals, keep looking.

Good dog training is a two-way conversation. You should feel comfortable asking questions—and getting real answers.

2. Ask about their training philosophy (and why they believe in it)

At A Dog’s Life, we use balanced, relationship-based training backed by science—and it’s not because it sounds cool.

It’s because we’ve trained hundreds of dogs and seen firsthand that clarity, consistency, and trust create lasting results.

If a trainer can’t explain their methods or why they do what they do in plain English, that’s a red flag.

3. Watch how they handle both dogs and humans

Great trainers don’t just train dogs—they coach people.You should feel supported, not judged. A good trainer won’t make you feel guilty because your dog pulls on the leash or loses their mind when the Amazon guy shows up.We’ve all been there.

4. Don’t fall for “quick fixes”

Anyone promising “off-leash in 3 days” or “guaranteed results in one session” is selling you a fantasy.

Yes, dogs can learn quickly with the right guidance—but behavior change takes time, consistency, and effort

A good trainer will be upfront about that and give you tools that actually work long-term.

5. Make sure it feels right

At the end of the day, trust your gut.If something feels off, it probably is. You and your dog should feel safe, seen, and supported throughout the training process.

"Is it normal to feel personally attacked during a training consultation? Asking for a friend."

Questions to Ask Any Trainer Before You Hire Them

Feel free to copy, paste, or read these straight off your phone—we love when people come prepared:

• What’s your training philosophy, and how does it work in real-life situations?

• What kinds of dogs do you typically work with?

• How do you handle unwanted behaviors like barking, jumping, or aggression?

• What kind of follow-up or support do you offer after training?

• Can I watch a training session or speak to a past client?

• How do you customize training for different lifestyles or family dynamics?

• What happens if I’m struggling during the training process?

• Do you use tools like prong collars, e-collars, food rewards, etc.? If so, how and why?

• What’s your goal for my dog at the end of this program?

• What makes your training different from others?

At A Dog’s Life, we train real dogs for real life. No gimmicks. No fluff. Just thoughtful, customized training that helps you and your dog thrive—at home, on the trail, or grabbing lunch on a dog-friendly patio.

Whether you’re dealing with chaos at the front door, leash tantrums, or just want a better relationship with your dog, we’re here to help.

Because a well-trained dog isn’t just easier to live with—it’s a dog you can enjoy life with.

Need help figuring out the best training option for your pup?

Let’s talk. We’ll walk you through everything and help you decide if we’re the right fit—no pressure.