After a long day, all your clients may want to do is relax and unwind with their fur babies. Figuring out a training schedule can be tiring, that’s why lots of owners look for a professional trainer to help them. You have the training and experience. All you need now are more ways to gain more business. Pet Care Insurance is here with useful business tips to help you gain more clients.
Have Patience
Having patience is easier said than done when it comes to the dog training business. Some dogs can be so attentive while others aren’t interested in learning. All they want to do is play or relax! Not to mention each dog can learn things differently.
Don’t lose patience or feel discouraged if your typical training techniques aren’t working. Patience goes a long way and clients will appreciate working with someone who treats their fur baby well. Keep in mind that your clients will share their experiences with fellow pet parents who need a trainer.
Consistency is Essential
Sometimes it can take a little longer for one dog to learn a training technique compared to their furry classmate.
If there’s a technique that your fur client is struggling with, you should encourage the owner to teach it at home and commit to a short 10–15 minute session everyday. Extra praise and treats from the human they love most could surely help. Sometimes extra training outside class is beneficial and really solidifies the concept for the doggo.
Pet parents want to be included in the process and will do anything to make sure their pup is learning. By communicating any struggle, it shows you care about the pet’s progress and want them to be successful.
Be Confident In Your Training Ability
Some dogs are easier to train than others. One way to make sure your classes run smoothly is by establishing yourself as the leader of the pack and being confident in your training ability.
Doggos pick up on that kind of energy and will take you seriously. According to Specialty Dog Training, “Leadership is most often carried out in silent dominance, resource control, being confident and having the ability to give direction and follow through.” If a training class didn’t go as planned, think back to your previous success stories and use that experience to keep moving forward. Your fur students will learn as long as you stick to what you know.
Keep in mind that your clients choose you based on a variety of factors, including your experience. They trust you’ll be able to deliver great results. The more experience you gain, the better off you may be. See what you can do below.
Increase Your Knowledge
While you may have experience in dog training, there is always room for improvement and there are many useful resources available. These resources offer new techniques or certifications you may want to obtain to boost your credentials. Check them out below.
- The Association of Professional Dog Trainers: Dog trainers can find continuing education materials, certifications, and networking opportunities through this association. Learn more here.
- International Association of Canine Professionals: This association offers business building tools, certifications, and seminars. Learn more here.
- Certification Council For Professional Dog Trainers: They offer certifications and re-certification courses for dog trainers to use. Learn more here.
By learning new techniques and getting certified, you show clients how much you care about your business. People want to work with a dog trainer that is well-versed in the industry. After you complete a certification course, be sure to include your accomplishment on your site or marketing materials.
Set Expectations With Your Clients
Your lesson plans vary depending on difficulty. Before the class begins, we encourage you to go over the class materials and make sure you are on the same page as your clients. This can be via phone, email, or video chat. It gives them a better understanding of what to expect from each lesson.
We recommend doing a little check in with each client and letting them know how their fur baby is performing. By taking the time to check in, it shows they are a person and not a number. No one wants to work with someone who doesn’t prioritize them. Happy clients could lead to referrals from friends and family.
Be Prepared With Dog Trainer Insurance
Dogs can be unpredictable and there’s no way around it.
An accident can happen at any moment. Some doggos are prone to injury while others get overly protective and hurt others in the process. What would you do if this happened during one of your classes? Our insureds turn to PCI and you can too! We’ve seen countless claims that fellow dog trainers have faced and can help you out.
By obtaining dog trainer insurance, we take on the risk and give you a financial safety net to fall back on. You can learn more about coverage by visiting us here.
Conclusion
One of the keys to a successful business is making sure your clients are happy. Focusing on their needs and the fur babies during each lesson matters. Satisfied customers can lead to referrals and positive online reviews. By connecting with your fur clients, communicating with pet parents, and improving your business, your hard work can attract others to choose you over a competitor. Try out these tips and see how they can fit in your unique business.
