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Certified dog trainer
Antoinette Krafcheck
Antoinette Krafcheck

Mishawaka, IN

Top Hat & Tails Canine Training School offers a variety of classes and services for dog owners in St. Joseph County, Indiana, and the surrounding areas. Classes range from puppy basics and obedience to advanced agility training.

The school provides private, group, and in-home training as well as consultations for behavior problems. The state-of-the-art training facility features 1/2 inch rubber flooring and high-quality agility equipment. The training philosophy emphasizes positive methods, recognizing that dogs are part of the family.

The school is located near Mishawaka, serving clients in Michiana, including St. Joseph, Elkhart, and LaPorte counties in Indiana, and Berrien, Cass, and St. Joseph counties in Michigan. Cities served include South Bend, Mishawaka, Granger, Osceola, Niles, Edwardsburg, Elkhart, Dunlap, and Goshen.

Top Hat & Tails Canine Training School offers a "PAWSitive" approach to dog training, providing daytime, evening, and Saturday classes in agility, puppy socialization, basic manners/obedience, and Rally, as well as behavior problem solving and Canine Good Citizen testing.

Special programs include "Little Rascals" for puppies and their families, focusing on socialization and confidence-building, and "Kidz 'n Dogz," which enables children to care for and train their dogs. Informal play sessions allow spirited canines and their owners to socialize in a secure environment.

Antoinette Krafcheck, the founder, is a lifelong dog owner and enthusiast with over 25 years of experience in training and handling champion Bearded Collies. She has integrated her eclectic 24+ year career with her lifelong passion for dogs, utilizing her extensive background in communication, education, and behavioral science to assist clients in meeting their goals and integrating their canine companions into the family system.

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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