Hello,
I just finished a basic training course (for personal reasons I took it in Israel eventhough I reside in the states). And now I'm looking for an apprenticeship in the DC MD VA area. Do any of you can recommend any trainer that offers apprenticeships in that area?
Thanks,
Drorit Dror

Basic Training in what?

basic DOG training (heel, sit, stay etc...)

You might want to check with local shelters and rescues. If you are trying to practice your skills and get experience; I can't think of a better way to do that than making a dog more adoptable by teaching him/her the basics.

SPCA in Richmond has one of the best facilities around

Thanks for your sugestion it's a great idea and this is indeed what I'm going to do but after I'll do an apprenticeship. I still need to learn a lot about dog's behavioral problems and practice with an expert.

I know that some experts prefer to take on apprentices after they have a little experience of their own. Checking out the local shelter wouldn't be a bad way for you to interact with some dogs and watch how they interact with you and each other. You don't have to do very intensive work, just volunteer once a week as a walker. Just remember, since you say you have a lot more to learn know your limits and don't take on a dog if you feel uncomfortable handling it.

I agree that some of the best experiences with dogs come from dogs at a shelter. At least it helped me greatly when I was first learning to groom. Basically I'd have a different dog every time and honestly short of hurting the dog I had complete freedom to work at my own pace and do my own choice of haircuts. There was an endless supply of work. It also can create some very fun results. Nothing is more fun than than taking raw material and creating something beautiful.

http://www.inarifarm.com/redpoo.jpg this is by far one of my favorite shelter grooms. This dog came in unable to see, or walk properly due to overgrown nails and mats. The dog was adopted 15 minutes after I did this groom and named him.

Anyway to get back on the point often times shelters have a trainer. The ones we have here have very qualified paid trainers who get volunteer assistants, perhaps you can work out something with the shelters in your area as an apprenticeship? You will get to see many many dogs with a lot of problems, or dogs with zero issues, already trained, or brand new puppies. Exposure to lots along with guidance can do great things to get you started on your way.

Ventosa Kennels did have an apprentice program at one time. The kennel is located in NC, just over the VA line. Just fyi.

I reccomend training for dog owners in Europe! If you already traveled to Israel, you can travel to Europe, too, where are located the best trainers, and the best schools for training.

USA is still far from the dog culture we have. Your trainers are mostly trainers because they say it, not because they can proove it.