Finding a Trainer for You and Your Kerry

by Virginia Barishek

Since 1986, Virginia Barishek has worked with terriers in obedience, currently including her Kerry, Andy.

Obedience training is excellent for channeling your Kerry's intelligence and working ability. Moreover, it builds a strong foundation for a lifelong relationship.

Before joining a dog-training class, observe a few different instructors (without your dog). How large is the class? Is it well managed? One instructor, without an assistant, can handle up to 12 students. Look for a combination of individual and group work. If you prefer one-on-one attention, however, find a professional trainer to work with you personally. What is the approach to training? Look for positive reinforcement and compulsion-free methods. Generous food rewards and verbal praise should be encouraged.

Does the instructor give clear directions, with practical rationales? For example, "Use the Down/Stay to keep your dog from begging while you eat dinner," or "Teach your dog to sit or stand quietly while you handle his toes and look at his ears and teeth. Your veterinarian will appreciate it." Do students and dogs actively work in class? Are handouts given to help them practice with their dogs at home? The instructor teaches you how to train. Homework is your job.

After observing, will the instructor spare a few minutes to answer your questions? Ask how they follow developments in dog training. Look for ongoing, practical experience. Do they compete in obedience (American, United, or Canadian Kennel Clubs)? Do they attend seminars such as those given by Ian Dunbar, Judie Howard, Patty Ruzzo, Terry Ryan, or Jack Volhard? Ask if the classes will prepare you and your Kerry to take the AKC's Canine Good Citizen Test. If so, then the class covers the essentials that all good dogs and owners should know.

As a Kerry owner, it's important to ask specifically about attitudes toward terriers. Listen for a general belief that all dogs are trainable. Look for experience with terriers, as well as with dogs from all groups (not just herding breeds, for example). Sadly, some people think terriers are "stubborn" or "stupid." The Kerry owner who tries to enjoy an obedience class with such an instructor is in for disappointment.

Kerries are strong-willed and highly intelligent. When trained positively, they work cheerfully. They enjoy variety, and create challenges for themselves if bored. This is why repetitive training won't work. Try to ascertain whether the instructor appreciates this. With better understanding of how dogs learn, it's hoped that drill-style classes are gone. If any still exist, terrier owners should avoid them.

Several terrier breed columnists in the February 2001 AKC Gazette described training seminars during Montgomery weekend. One noted favorable results with clicker training. Another discussed her breed's success with compulsion-free, positive methods. The same is true of the Kerry. A happy Kerry works with ears and tail up and a smile on his face. Compulsion or force shuts a terrier down quickly, however, and destroys their enthusiasm. So, don't disappoint them or damage their trust.

Finally, think about what you want for your dog and yourself. Maybe you'll try competitive obedience, agility, herding, or pet-assisted therapy. Even if you don't, you certainly want a good pet. Training strengthens your bond, provides quality time, and results in a well-mannered Kerry who is a charming companion for life.