Dog Trainer NJ

I offer in-home private dog training lessons and behavior modification programs in the following New Jersey counties:

Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Union, Passaic and Morris County.

I’ll use positive reinforcement-based methods to teach your dog the basic obedience commands then use these commands to direct his behavior.

If necessary, I’ll incorporate management solutions to make your life easier while he learns to make better choices. By the way, “positive” doesn’t mean “permissive”. He’ll have fair and consistent rules to follow which will make both you and your dog happier.

No. There is a difference between using a treat to lure your dog into a behavior and using a treat as a reward. We will very quickly stop luring your dog. Also, a reward doesn’t need to be a treat. Rewards can be anything your dog likes. Treats are usually the easiest thing to start with but you can also use things like toys, attention, walks, access to the backyard or even the opportunity to greet another dog or person.

After a short time, we will start rewarding him intermittently (not every single time he does something) and we’ll use a variety of rewards instead of just food.

Sometimes it only takes one lesson to achieve a specific goal. For general obedience, most owners learn the skills they need within six sessions (one behavior consultation followed by 5 training sessions) provided they practice in between each lesson. This includes working around some real-life distractions.

If you or your dog have had prior training, this could take less time. If you want, you can continue to take lessons for advanced obedience work or fun tricks. Fearful or aggressive dogs are trained at a pace that matches their comfort level.

Lessons are usually held once a week but we can adjust the schedule based on your needs and availability. You are also welcome to call, text or email me in between sessions if you have questions. There’s no additional charge for this support.

My approach is never one-size-fits-all because no two dogs or owners are ever the same. Working with a new client begins with an introductory call. Once I’ve learned more about you and your dog, I’ll be happy to provide you with a quote that fits your needs.

No, there isn’t any additional charge for working with multiple dogs. After all, the real student is you! We’ll simply prioritize your goals to decide which behaviors to address during each lesson. Plus, I’ll show you what to do if they start competing for your attention. The only exception might be if one of your dogs is displaying aggression since it’s often best to give our full attention to that problem first.

Ideally everyone in the family is present but I understand that this isn’t always possible. Especially when children are enrolled in after-school activities. In that case, the participating family members can help coach the others or I can bring them up to speed at a later date. I also provide written information that can be shared with those who cannot attend. Full family participation is best for a dog with fear-based behaviors and is generally mandatory for aggression cases.

I have trained thousands of dogs in a wide variety of breeds. My positive methods however aren’t “breed” specific. They will work whether your dog was bred to hunt, herd, guard or cuddle. I’d be happy to customize a training program for your dog based on his temperament, age, prey drive and sensitivity level as well as his prior experiences, environment, and physical condition.

No trainer can ethically guarantee a dog’s behavior. Owner compliance and unexpected life circumstances are just too variable. I can however guarantee my dedication to your success. Not only because you are paying me for my time but because as a former shelter volunteer, I know that the consequences of failure can be catastrophe for the dog. And that would break my heart.

No. I only offer in-home private training. Group classes require a set curriculum. I prefer adapting the lessons to match the priorities of each owner and the unique personality of their dog. Most people want to improve their dog’s behavior at home and in their neighborhood. That’s why I do the training there. But I’ll go wherever a problem happens such as the park, the groomer or veterinarian’s office.

No. I don’t think it’s the right option for most people and their dogs. First, it can be very expensive. And when the dogs come home, they often revert back to their original behavior. For long-lasting results, owners need to learn how to properly direct and reinforce their dog’s actions. Even reward-based training can be stressful for some dogs when they are in a strange environment. Especially if they are separated from their owners. If you do choose to send your dog away for training, be sure to fully investigate the trainer’s experience and methods.

Yes. I love it when people call me before they get a dog! I commend you for doing your research. Starting out with the right breed, age and temperament is a great first step toward a successful relationship. Every breed has certain tendencies and it helps if they align with your personality.

Getting a puppy can be a great decision as long as you have the time and energy to devote to raising one (spoiler alert . . . they are a lot of work!). If you have a hectic schedule, an adult dog with a good temperament might be a better choice. We can explore all the options and determine what type of dog might be the right match for you.

Yes. Getting a puppy is very exciting but it can be a little overwhelming too. Especially if you are becoming a puppy parent for the first time. We can chat on the phone to make sure you are fully prepared for the big day.

Or if you want, I can come to your home before he arrives to make sure everything is set up properly. We can also discuss the crate training and housebreaking process so that you can avoid problems from day one. This applies to adopting a new dog as well. After all, he might not have had the proper training in his prior home.