02/17/2025
Yesterday, my daughters asked me to dye their hair. So, I went to the beauty store, got the supplies, and gave them the blue streaks they wanted. I’ve learned how to dye hair through trial and error—practicing on myself growing up and then on my sister. Now, I do it for my kids.
That said, I personally get my hair done by a professional—who also happens to be one of my best friends. She has explained the science behind hair dye (especially vibrant colors) and why certain techniques are necessary to avoid damage or incorrect results. But honestly? I don’t remember most of that science because it’s chemistry, and chemistry confuses me.
All this to say—I am **not** a professional when it comes to hair. I’ll do fun little streaks for my kids, but if I started charging people for hair services with my very limited knowledge, that would be **highly unethical**—and actually illegal in Oklahoma, where hairstylists are required to be licensed. Without the right training, I could damage someone’s hair, cause allergic reactions, or make serious mistakes because everyone's hair is different. Not to mention, I’d be laughed out of the hairstylist community, people would warn others to stay away from me, and I’d probably face hefty fines.
Now, here’s the point of this story: **the dog training industry is not regulated like the hair industry.** There are no required certifications, schooling, or licensing. Anyone can claim to be a dog trainer, take people’s money, and start working with dogs—whether they have the knowledge to do so safely or not. That’s dangerous because, as much as we love our dogs, they are still animals.
If someone doesn’t understand **basic** dog body language, learning theories, or how to apply training techniques correctly, they can turn a dog into a liability. This isn’t a debate about training methods (balanced vs. positive). This is about **fundamental knowledge**—and ensuring trainers don’t do more harm than good due to a lack of skills. If a trainer openly admits they don’t understand basic dog training principles, that should be a **major red flag.**
A good, ethical, and knowledgeable trainer knows what cases they can and cannot take on. They continue learning, seek guidance from experienced peers, and refine their skills. An amateur trainer, however, can cause more harm than good—especially if they take on cases beyond their expertise.
And if a trainer is posting videos on social media showcasing their skills, pay attention. Watch how the dog looks. Observe the trainer’s communication. These details matter.
In Oklahoma City alone, there are nearly 40 different dog trainers—all with varying levels of education, experience, training styles, and ethical standards. Not all of them prioritize ethical, science-based training. If you’re searching for a trainer, take the time to research their social media, website, and credentials. Ask questions. I love when potential clients ask about my methods and why I train the way I do. I want owners to feel confident in the process and trust in my 15+ years of experience. But I also want them to trust me when I say, "I’m not sure about that, but let’s find a better fit or research the best approach."
At the end of the day, **choosing the right trainer matters.** Make sure you’re placing your trust—and your dog’s well-being—in the hands of someone truly qualified.
**I won’t single out any names, but as professionals, we have a responsibility to hold each other accountable. Growth comes from learning and applying that knowledge to do better, and that is a principle I deeply value.**
At ROC Animal Training and Behavior,
