As a trainer, I thought I would add my two cents.

Finding a trainer can be similar to finding a good therapist. There are good ones and bad ones. What works for one doesn't work for all. Any trainer who genuinely has your dogs interest at heart will take time to talk to you and explain their training method. You can determine from that point if you click with the trainer or not. If not, keep looking.

I find that some dog owners already have a perception of training that makes working with them difficult. Basically, I can determine that they will not get a lot out of their training with me. However, there are others who think I am the best trainer they have ever had.

Other considerations:

From your email, I couldn't tell if you were looking for individual classes or group classes. My suggestion is group classes for socialization and training and the cost should run about $85.00 - $110.00 for a 7 to 8 week class. The first class should take place after a one on one consultation with the trainer.

An experienced trainer is highly recommended. Most local dog clubs offer obedience classes and their experienced club members hold the classes. When I state experienced, I am referring to people who have or do compete in obedience trails with there dogs. There is no replacement for an experienced trainer who has gone through the ropes too. In these cases, they may or may not be certified by the association of dog trainers but don't for an instant think they are not qualified to teach. Ask them what training they have done personally with their dogs.

I personally prefer clicker training. I have done many methods over the years including Koehler (pop and choke) to positive (food motivation) to now clicking (click and treat). Clicking is the most friendly form of training and dogs respond so much faster in learning when clear consise signals are given to them.

Don'ts:

Never let a trainer yell at your dog. If they resort to this then they don't know how to train. I have been walking through pet stores while training classes are being held and the trainer is yelling "NO" or some other negative command. This is ineffective training.

Never let a trainer choke your dog or ask you to choke your dog.

Never let the trainer take your dog from you for any other purpose than to show you how to get your dog to respond to you in a positive manner.

Good luck in your adventure. A trained dog is a loved dog and a welcome part of society.