Choosing a trainer
What to tell a new dog trainer
The first conversation with a new trainer goes better when you arrive with facts rather than a general sense that things are not working. A few minutes of notes beforehand saves a lot of guessing. Here is what is worth writing down, why each piece matters, and how our consultation form already captures part of it, including which program you are curious about.
Last reviewed October 4, 2026
Your notes
The details worth writing down before you meet.
Start with history: where the dog came from, its age when it joined you, and any incidents, especially bites, snaps or close calls, along with what happened right before. Then list triggers as specifically as you can. Not just other dogs, but large dogs on leash at close range, or people in hats at the front door. The more exact the trigger, the easier it is to plan around.
Next, what has been tried. Note each method or tool, how long it was used, and what your dog did: improved, shut down, got more intense, or showed no change. Finally, the household: who lives there, any children or other pets, work schedules, and who will actually do the daily practice. Mention medical issues and vet advice too, since pain can look like a training problem.
- Bites, snaps and close calls
- Exact triggers and distances
- Every method and tool tried
- Who lives in the home
At the consultation
How we use what you tell us.
Our consultation form already asks which program you are interested in, so you do not need it figured out. Treat that answer as a starting point. What you share about history, triggers and the household is what shapes the recommendation, which may be a different program than you expected, or a smaller one if that covers it. Dogs with bite histories are considered for Behaviour Rehab after a full assessment.
Be candid about what worked as well as what did not. If your dog responded well to food or to a particular routine, we want to build on that rather than start from zero. If something made your dog worse, we will avoid repeating it. Everything we do is one-on-one, skills come first through markers and rewards, and any tool is matched to your dog and taught to you.
Asked and answered
The questions people ask us.
What should I tell a dog trainer at the first meeting?
Share your dog's history, specific triggers, every method and tool tried with the results, and who lives at home. Include any bites or close calls and any health concerns. Specifics help the trainer plan safely.
Do I need to tell a new trainer about a bite?
Yes. A bite history changes how the first sessions are planned and keeps everyone safer. At Northline K9, dogs with bite histories are considered for Behaviour Rehab after a full assessment.
Should I tell a new trainer what the last trainer did?
Describe the methods and tools and how your dog responded, without needing to judge anyone. That tells the new trainer what to build on and what to avoid.
Do I need to know which program I want before booking?
No. Our consultation form asks which program interests you, but that is only a starting point. The recommendation comes after we have heard the full picture.
Keep reading
Bring your notes
History, triggers, what worked and who is at home. Book a consultation and we will take it from there.
From real owners
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Real Northline dogs