Dog training Services
Building better relationships between dogs & Humans
Puppy Kindergarten
Puppy kindergarten class as light on training and high on socialization, education, body language, and puppy interactions.
Virtual Training
Virtual training starts with an initial consultation then a more in depth training for either Puppies + Non-Aggressive Dogs or Reactivity + Aggression
Private Training
Private, in-home sessions to help you better understand your dog’s behavior and body language, as well as successful training strategies.
You’re a good fit if:
You understand that successful training requires your participation. You’re willing to dedicate time and effort both during and outside of training sessions in order to give your dog the best chance at success.
You can agree to our force-free training policy which includes positive reinforcement techniques only. We focus on rewarding good behavior while managing undesirable behavior without punishment.
You’re comfortable making a significant financial investment in your and your dog’s future.
You’re not a good fit if:
You are committed to using training methods that include shock collars, punishment, and other pain-inflicting techniques.
You believe that it is only your dog who needs training, and don’t agree that us humans could use a little training as well
"I can't recommend Jill enough-- she is amazing!"
"I cannot stress how integral of a role they played in helping me raise my German shepherd puppy. My puppy is still learning, as I am as well, but everywhere we go my puppy gets compliments on how sweet and well behaved she is! Their approach to training is supported by science and it’s force free. I’m super grateful for reaching out to them for their services! I highly highly recommend them!"
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sessions will my dog need to be fixed?
We are not in the business of fixing dogs, only in the business of helping humans to help their dogs. Behavior is complicated and nuanced; there is also no way of giving any timeline or promise to any behavior change. We are here to help; we can promise that. If, after a consultation, we believe that behavior is something we cannot handle, we will refer to someone more qualified to handle your case, often a veterinary behaviorist.
Can we talk on the phone or text questions?
We handle all training questions in our consultations and training sessions; we do not train via email or phone.
Why DOES education and certifications matter?
I am certified in applied animal behavior through The University of Washington and certified Karen Pryor Academy for Animal training and behavior, which means that I went through extensive education to be at the level I’m at in my craft. It was important to me to be the best at my craft.
Since switching to positive reinforcement, I have been entrenched in courses and education! I believe in giving the utmost respect to all living beings and their handlers by educating myself wholeheartedly on my work. It’s so detrimental that our industry isn’t regulated; anyone can say they are a dog trainer or behaviorist—But what does that mean? It means they’ve had a dog or handled one—Maybe.
The damage I’ve seen done to animals in the name of training is horrible and often irreversible. I will make it my quest to share my knowledge with those who want it.
What is most important to me is to be the best advocate I can be for animals and humans. Training without education is not enough; there is so much to learn and many mistakes you can make if you’re not careful. I have seen and worked on the other side of science, and it’s harmful and unethical.
Why DON’t YOU use punishment?
While punishment does absolutely decrease behavior (we all have experienced this in school or at home) —— Does it actually work to change behavior? Punishment is not training. It’s a short-term fix that will only lead to pain, fear, and confusion for our animals and humans.
Punishment is suppressing the behavior, creating fear, and not allowing our learners to express their emotions. If dogs are pulling on the leash, we need to figure out what is happening in the environment that is making them pull, then we can set up training to help them. If your dog is fearful or anxious about an unknown or distracting environment, they will pull.
This behavior is often involuntary, as they speed up their walking, when they’re nervous or excited. This is the time that all of the yanking on the leash would happen… While your dog is experiencing stress. What are you doing to their mental state? You’re making them more anxious and fearful!
