About
I’m a force free, relationship based trainer. I only work with people individually with their dogs. 99% of behavior problems are rooted in the relationship we have with our dogs, even if you’re nothing but nice to your dog. I help my clients start things off right with puppies, teach older dogs to give up unwanted behaviors, and help dogs with aggression issues. I have an amazing track record of success and hundreds of happy clients. Read their words on my website at www.GoodDogTraining.biz.
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jaime V.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
You get in touch, we discuss your needs and any issues or goals, then we book an at home or online lesson depending on whether you’re in my travel area or farther away. Most people need 3-5 lessons unless they want training to become Canine Good Citizen or Therapy Dog certified.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I got my initial training hands-on working with dogs with behavior issues at Austin Pets Alive. As part of their Behavior Team I was mentored by the founder of the team who had been brought to APA because of his reputation in the field. I then continued being mentored by a world renowned behaviorist, extensive reading on the psychology and development of dogs, and am now completing a certification as a Holistic Dog Trainer. I am also certified to train and test dogs for the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen test.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
Online sessions are $90 for a one-hour lesson.
In home lessons range from $95-$150 an hour depending on whether you’re in my zip code or at the edge of my range in Leander or Georgetown of San Marcos or somewhere in between.
How did you get started in this business?
I started training horses using Parelli natural horsemanship methods. When I started at APA I took this same approach to training dogs, and with the help of my me tor had great success at helping difficult shelter dogs become adoptable and go home. This made me want to help other dogs not end up in shelters because of behavior issues so I started working with individuals needing help.
What types of customers have you worked with?
All types. Everything from people wanting to start off right with a puppy to dogs with aggression issues. I even trained a pig once to walk nicely on a leash.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Make sure they understand how to help you build trust with your dog and become the parent he turns to tomsolve his problems, instead of trying to solve them himself. Also, some trainers claim to be positive reinforcement trainers but still use squirt bottles and shake cans and gear like prong collars and gentle leaders and harnesses. All of these things have negative effects on your dog’s physical and emotional states, and if they use them they don’t understand that.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
What are your goals?