5 reasons we might NOT be the trainer for you
Dog training is a service industry, and like any partnership, success depends on harmony between the dog owner and the trainer. At Valor K9 Academy, we know we are not the right dog trainer for everyone—and that’s okay. Different people have different expectations when it comes to dog training.
We share educational content across our platforms to help potential clients learn who we are, what we do, and what we expect. Our goal is simple: when you sign up for training, both you and your trainer should be on the same page. That’s the foundation for long-term success.
With that in mind, here are five reasons we might not be the right dog trainer for you:
1) You Want Instant Results
Dogs are living, breathing creatures—not machines. Quality training takes time, patience, and consistency. If you’re looking for an overnight transformation, we aren’t the right fit. Beware of trainers who guarantee results in just one session. True, lasting obedience is built step by step, just like Rome wasn’t built in a day.
2) You Aren’t Willing to Invest
Good training requires both financial and personal investment. Our trainers have spent thousands of dollars and years of effort perfecting their craft, and we continue to invest in ongoing education to provide top-notch service. In return, we dedicate significant time, energy, and expertise to every dog we train—whether in private lessons, group classes, or board-and-train programs. If you’re only looking for the cheapest option, we may not be the trainer for you.
3) You Expect Us to Do All the Work
No matter the program you choose, your participation matters. In private lessons and group classes, we guide you, but you must practice with your dog between sessions. In board-and-train, we lay the foundation, but you must learn how to maintain your dog’s training at home. Without consistency from the owner, training will not last.
4) You Don’t Want to Use Training Equipment
We don’t introduce corrective tools on day one, but balanced training does include the use of prong collars, e-collars, and other equipment once a dog has a solid foundation. These tools help reinforce accountability and create reliable, real-world obedience. If you are firmly against using training equipment, then our program is not the right fit. Our methods are fair, effective, and designed to set your dog up for long-term success.
5) You’re Unwilling to Change Your Habits
For training to succeed, owners must be willing to adapt. That might mean committing to daily exercise, using a crate properly, or following through with commands. We can train your dog, but only you can provide consistent leadership at home. As we often say: “We can’t care more than the client.” If you’re not ready to make changes for your dog’s success, we won’t be able to help you achieve the results you want.
Final Thoughts Regarding the Right Dog Trainer for You
At Valor K9 Academy, we truly want to help you transform your dog into the well-behaved companion you’ve always dreamed of. But that transformation requires teamwork: your time, your effort, and your willingness to follow through.
We’re not the right dog trainer for everyone—and that’s okay. But if you’re committed, open to learning, and ready to invest in your dog’s future, we’d love to work with you.
