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Certified dog trainer
Bill Mayeroff
Bill Mayeroff

Chicago, IL

Working with dogs represents a new chapter in Big Wags Chicago's life. After experiencing burnout from a journalism career, they transitioned to dog walking in 2013 for additional income. Despite attempts to re-enter journalism, they embraced a new direction, choosing to immerse themselves in the world of dogs.

Their approach as a trainer centers on establishing success for both owner and dog, fostering a bond built on trust, love, and mutual respect. As the Owner and Chief Canine Officer, their training philosophy revolves around purely positive reinforcement, utilizing rewards to encourage desired behaviors without aversive techniques or physical punishment. Their aim is to ensure that training is a joyful and enjoyable experience for both owner and dog.

Based in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, they offer services in English. Their journey post-2013 includes graduation from FetchFind Academy in 2016, leading to diverse experiences in dog training, walking, shelter work, and hands-on roles in daycare and boarding facilities. These experiences have provided opportunities to meet and assist a wide variety of dogs, an aspect they cherish.

During leisure time, they cherish moments with their partner and two dogs, Chester and Bodhi. They also take pleasure in discovering the finest beer menus in Chicago, watching professional darts, and attending White Sox games.

Looking ahead, they eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with clients and their canine companions, offering a warm thanks and big wags.

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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