If they are against using food, keep looking. You should also ask questions about their experience, background, and amount of time in the field. Get referrals from veterinarians and clients who are familiar with the trainer. A call to this Association will generally yield the names of reputable trainers in your area. My classes involve more than just sit, down, stay, come.
Training means communication and teaching the dog our language.
While obedience training is an important step, socialization is vital to all dogs if they are to develop into calm, confident, well-rounded adult dogs. For confidence building and to bring more life and fun to class, we have an agility course. We emphasize instructive reprimands rather than the word no. For housebreaking we teach potty on command. As your dog matures, food rewards can be given intermittently.