Austin, TX
Erin Flynn
Erin Flynn is a certified dog trainer who has a passion for rescue canines. She has four dogs of her own: Pip, Patch, Peanut, and Ella Bean. She founded Barktastic Behavior in 2021 to bridge the communication gap between people and their dogs and to make life more enjoyable for everyone.
Training Philosophy
Erin believes in using positive reinforcement and clear communication that dogs understand. She teaches owners how to get the behavior they want without being aversive, never having to tug on a leash or yell.
Services
Barktastic Behavior offers a variety of in-person and virtual classes and packages, including:
- Puppy Start-Right Class: This six-week program covers how to prepare puppies for experiences, people, and situations they'll encounter in the outside world. It includes basic behaviors like sit, down, and settle on a mat. The cost is $250 per dog.
- Dog Foundation Skills Class: This six-week program covers how to teach dogs a wide range of behaviors, including sit, down, stay, nose-to-hand target, recall, leave it, and more. The cost is $250 per dog.
- Premier Puppy Package: This package includes a consultation with the owner(s) prior to bringing the puppy home, one-on-one training and support throughout the six-week Puppy Start Right program, and covers topics such as crate training, house training, chewing, jumping, and dog enrichment ideas. The cost is $450 per dog.
- Coaching: This package includes in-person training sessions with Erin, homework in between sessions, and can be purchased as a three-session or six-session package. The cost is $225-$450 per dog.
- Day Training: This package includes weekly in-home training sessions with Erin, where she trains the dog in a 'hands off' process. One of the sessions includes a 15-minute 'transfer' session where Erin teaches the owner what she has taught the dog that week. The cost is $450 per dog.
- Virtual Classes: These classes are offered via Zoom and are suitable for those who are not close by or who have a reactive dog. They include the Puppy Start-Right Class and the Dog Foundation Skills Class, both of which are six weeks long and cost $225 per dog.
- Virtual Packages: These packages offer three or six sessions with a focus on two to three cues or four to six behaviors, respectively. The cost is $225-$450 per dog.
Certifications
Erin is certified from the Karen Pryor Academy as a clicker dog trainer.
Specializations
Erin specializes in dog anxiety and has worked with dogs who have PTSD. She also has experience with puppy training, obedience training, and socialization.
Training Methods
Erin uses positive reinforcement and clicker training methods.
Customer Reviews
- Deb Johnson: I've had previous experience with trainers who use pinch collars and minimal treats - not much positive reinforcement. Erin listens to your issues and identifies easy training solutions that are positive and helpful and really work for you and your dog.
- Heather Dawson: I love Barktastic's 'What to expect' handbooks on chewing, house training, and socialization. You get very specific help.
- Kelly Thoemke: We connected with Erin because we needed to know how to get Oakley's attention and that he'd come when called. In her first encounter with him, she bent down, said his name, and he went right to her. There's something very calming about her.
- Deb Johnson: Erin gave us the confidence and tools to work with Joey to make him a better dog - and us better owners.
- Jane Pfaller, Waushara County Animal Shelter: When Rocky was having some pottying issues, Erin taught him to pee on cue. I saw a difference in only two weeks.
- Heather Dawson: Working with Erin has reduced my stress level so much because I know what I'm doing. I'm a first-time puppy owner who's come to understand how to read his body language and signals. It makes a huge difference.
Social Media Links
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085650477379
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barktasticbehavior/
Media Appearances
Erin has been featured in the Waushara Argus newspaper on several occasions, including articles about her work with the Waushara County Animal Shelter, her training of the therapy dog Grizz, and the launch of Barktastic Behavior.
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
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.
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.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
