Breadth of knowledge: Although you want a trainer skilled at working with small and toy breeds, you also want someone with a wide knowledge of all dogs. A trainer who really knows dogs won't jeopardize the safety of your nosy little papillon by seating it next to a ninety-five-pound rottweiler. A good trainer puts safety first and knows that dogs with serious aggression issues need intensive private training before they can be allowed into a group setting.

Demeanor: The trainer should exude confidence without being arrogant, a down-to-earth person you can approach with your questions, even when they seem foolish to you.

Kindness: This quality is essential, both toward canines and their human handlers. No harsh techniques or screaming at dogs should be acceptable, and no yanking, hanging, or hitting. Of course, you should see no prejudice against the littlest members of the class or their inexperienced owners either.

Fun: The best trainers enjoy their calling. They incorporate games into the class and show affection for their pupils. They are nonjudgmental to people and dogs alike, able to be tickled by a dog's silly antics without putting it down in the process. You can tell that they delight in dogs, whether that means their pupils or their own cherished dogs. Besides teaching the basic commands that every dog needs, they might throw in a few pet tricks, too.

Reality: Professional trainers are training both you and your dog. They know that in order to be successful, you will have to put in lots of practice time between formal sessions. They can't promise to put an obedience title on little Peaches if you are inconsistent in your dedication and lacking in your leadership.

Individual attention: Some dogs are more hardheaded than others. They may need a no-nonsense approach to get the message across. Others may collapse in a puddle if you raise your voice. Some little terriers have short attention spans, and if they get bored in class, they won't learn. And just like humans, canines vary in intelligence. Some are very bright, and some take longer to learn. Good trainers vary their techniques to ensure success with each student.

Success: Most accomplished trainers began by training their own dogs. They know firsthand what it's like to earn an obedience title. They have increased their knowledge by attending school, taking courses, and going to conferences and camps, and they belong to national training organizations. They should be able to provide you with references and the assurance that they never stop growing and learning about dogs.