Selecting a dog trainer - should you ever need to - is a decision that can't be taken lightly. Here we'll advise how to go about it.

You have the dog, you have the lead, and you've read all the books and seen all the videos. Unfortunately leads, books and videos don't train dogs, you have to! You need proper advice and practical coaching from a properly trained and experienced person who will take your individual dog and your individual needs into consideration. So where to start?

You could have a private trainer at home, giving you one to attention, and working to your personal specification. This is certainly the best option for a difficult dog, or for an owner with physical difficulties. Advantages include the fact that you would be training individually in your own home and local dog walking area, and learning to socialise your dog amongst your local canine neighbours.

As long as you ensure that the trainer is professional, insured and is working to modern positive standards, the only drawback is the cost. Depending on where you live, expect to pay from ?30 per hour, more for behavioural work.

Many people prefer the Club option, but although it is cheaper and more sociable, this route can be fraught with danger. Attend in the first instance without your dog, and observe the general atmosphere and teaching methods.

Danger spots to look out for are:

Dogs and owners walking in a circle shouting 'heel'. Nothing can be learned like this, and it leads to frustration all round. It also means that the Instructor is not familiar with up to date teaching methods.

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