Question: I have a young female Gordon Setter. She's five months old and I'd like to have her trained professionally. I've called around to several trainers and I seem to be getting vastly different opinions on what to do and when I should do it. What's your opinion?

Tina K., Lansing.

Answer: Your first lesson in dog trainers should've been an eye-opener. Anyone who wants to can call themselves a professional. Lesson number two is ‘don't mistake opinions for facts.' The trainer who told you that you're getting a late start and that you've missed out on any golden moments in training is a scam artist. I've had to share the microscope at outdoor fairs with the b.s. artist and I heard his mumbo jumbo firsthand on how you need to get your twelve-week-old pup to him for sessions before it's too late. This is simply a case of economics. The trainer needs the money. The first six months should be spent on bonding and playtime with most pups. 

Charlie Linblade

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