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Certified dog trainer
Cara Gerstein
Cara Gerstein

Cara Gerstein has always loved dogs, but she didn't realize until she began training that she also loves the fascinating science of behaviour change. She finds it magical to combine her love of dogs with the beautiful, humane and highly efficient principles of positive reinforcement training.

Cara Gerstein uses force-free training methods and teaches using positive reinforcement. She believes that the human part of the human/dog relationship is an integral part of any behaviour modification plan and that building trust and new behaviours with your dog is essential.

WildFlower Dog Training offers a variety of services, including:

  • Best Dog Sessions: A package of 4 one hour training sessions completed either over Zoom or in your home. $500+HST. Ideal for puppies and adult dogs in need of socialization, basic manners and fun and enriching tricks training.
  • Behaviour Modification Sessions: A special 6 week program for dogs showing fear and anxiety based behaviours. Designed for dogs struggling with anxiety, fear and aggression. $960+HST.
  • Live Virtual Puppy School: A 5-week live virtual Puppy School academy covering all the basics. $195+HST.

Cara Gerstein is a Pat Miller Certified Trainer (PMCT). She attended the Peaceable Paws Instructors Academy and obtained her PMCT designation in 2015.

Cara Gerstein specializes in force-free training methods, positive reinforcement, behaviour modification, puppy training, and socialization.

Cara Gerstein uses force-free training methods and teaches using positive reinforcement. She also utilizes Counter Conditioning and Desensitization (CC&D) and the BAT protocol.

Customer Reviews:

Laura & pup Nora: “Cara has lots of great, practical solutions that are easy to implement and very effective. When Toronto went into lock down, we moved to virtual meetings with Cara and have found them just as useful. We orient the camera so that she can watch us working with our puppy and she is able to give us by the moment feedback. We have given Cara's name to a number of other dog owners and we highly recommend her!”
John S.: “We have had Cara help us with the training of our very enthusiastic red lab, Chilli. Cara has offered good, practical guidance to us to make the walks more fun for all.”
Trish & Hugo: “Thanks for helping us be good humans for our furry boy.”
Clare & Michelle: “WildFlower built a program that not only helped Ollie, it gave us hope to have a normal life again.”
Charlie & Nyla: “Our first Puppy School session with Cara was outstanding---far exceeded our expectations and we learned so much.”

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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. 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 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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