Characteristics of dog training companies and their services in British Columbia, Canada

The information about dog training companies available on their websites varies in quality and clarity, which can affect how guardians choose a trainer. We collected and analysed information from public websites of dog training businesses in British Columbia (B.C.), Canada to learn about the training credentials, services, modes, and methods used. We recorded the number of trainers, gender, and training credentials of the lead trainer(s), reported training methodology, modes and types of training services, and whether other pet services were offered. We found 281 businesses operating in the province, and 72.24% were identified as using only reward-based training methods. It was more likely for reward-based training businesses than aversive-based businesses to list training credentials on their websites [ X 2 (1, N = 244) = 28.74, p <.001]. Most companies (98.22%) provided easily accessible information about the modes and type of training services offered. Online training was offered by 34.16% of companies. In terms of gender, and in line with previous research, we found that women outnumbered men as lead trainer. Women trainers were also more likely to employ reward-based methods [ X 2 (1, N = 264) = 20.19, p <.001] and to hold training credentials [ X 2 (1, N = 264) = 13.91, p <.001]. These findings provide a benchmark for future studies, as well as inform animal welfare advocacy and social change programs that aim to influence dog guardians to choose only reward-based trainers. • Identified 281 dog training businesses in British Columbia, Canada. • 72.24% of businesses said they used reward-based training methods. • Websites of reward-based businesses were more likely to include trainer credentials. • Women outnumbered men as lead trainers. • Women were more likely to use reward-based methods and hold credentials.