DOGS! And the value of a great trainer

The Animal Guide for Curious Humans

In the newest episode of The Animal Guide podcast show, we discuss one of the world’s most popular pets - dogs.

Our guest is dog trainer Helen Prinold from the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Helen has a Masters degree in Animal Behaviour, is CPDT-KA certified (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed), a CDBC (Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant), and a Certified Fear Free Animal Trainer.

In our conversation with Helen we focus on puppy and dog training and the value of retaining a well-qualified dog trainer who is skilled at using humane science-based techniques to help educate and train dogs and their human family members. We also talk about some of the important foundations for all dogs; that they are healthy, well-exercised, well-fed and in a positive environment.

Helen, who is the Immediate Past Chair of the Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPDT), explains that CAPDT has made it a priority to apply humane strategies when working with dogs. The Association’s members comply with a strong code of ethics that includes humane techniques recognized by the International Association of Animal Behaviour Consultants (IAABC).

CAPDT and sister organizations in other countries are working towards better regulation for the industry to ensure those working with dogs are well qualified using humane and science-based practices. As Helen says, “I've been running my own business for over 15, 20 years now and I compete against somebody who can just put up a shingle tomorrow after training their own dog to sit”.

A little more about Helen. She is the owner, lead trainer, and behaviour consultant for Dog Friendship Inc. – a dog training business in Guelph, Ontario. She also presents the internationally recognized dog bite prevention program Doggone Safe, and also "Be a Tree" for school-aged children and is a pet First Aid instructor. She is also a champion carriage driver, loves horses, and has worked extensively with behaviourally challenged dogs, rescue dogs and service dogs. She currently has a YorkiePoo who is changing Helen’s mind about how effective small dogs are at dog sports.

Episode Links and resources:

• CAPDT website: www.capdt.ca
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CAPPDT/
• CAPDT Code of Ethics: https://capdt.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Code-of-Ethics-2019.pdf
• www.Fearfreehappyhomes.com

Other associations of professional dog trainers:

• United States - www.apdt.com
• United Kingdom - https://apdt.co.uk
• Australia - https://www.apdt.org.au
• New Zealand - https://apdtnz.org.nz

Show links:

• Host Maureen Armstrong on LinkedIn
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Instagram