Aptos, CA
Jill Kessler-Miller
Jill has been training dogs since 1987. She has trained and titled her own dogs in obedience, protection, scent discrimination, agility, conformation, and barn hunt. She is a certified trainer with CCPDT and APDT. She worked extensively with abnormal behavior issues, aggression, dog bites, as well as other basic issues. She also worked for veterinarians for several years, and has a keen interest in veterinary medicine.
Training Philosophy
Jill believes in using positive reinforcement methods and focuses on building a strong bond between the dog and owner. She emphasizes the importance of understanding dog behavior and communication.
Services
Jill provides services to both plaintiff and defense attorneys, insurance companies as well as city/county/state prosecutors and public defenders. She is experienced and available for consultation, review, deposition and trial testimony. Her expertise includes:
- Dog bite investigation
- Dog bite analysis
- Aggression
- Dog behavior
- Temperament evaluations
- Behavior and/or training issues
- Animal cruelty cases
- Service dog evaluations
- Dog related laws and requirements
- AKC rules and protocols.
She is an all-breed expert with specialty knowledge in the Bully breeds (American Pit Bull Terrier, and all its relatives), Rottweilers, as well as other Mastiff-based breeds.
Certifications
Jill is a certified dog trainer with over 30 years of experience. She is a Chief Tester for ATTS (American Temperament Test Society) and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She is certified with CCPDT and APDT. She has taken 3 certification courses:
- Dog Bite Investigation (HSUS)
- Veterinary Forensics (HSUS)
- Veterinary Forensics: Bite Marks (ASPCA & Univ. of Florida).
Specializations
Jill specializes in dog bite investigation, dog bite analysis, aggression, dog behavior, temperament evaluations, animal cruelty cases, and service dog evaluations.
Training Methods
Jill uses positive reinforcement methods and focuses on building a strong bond between the dog and owner. She emphasizes the importance of understanding dog behavior and communication.
Media Appearances
Jill was the Editor of The Rottweiler Quarterly magazine for 2 years. She has written articles on behavior and training for over 20 years. She has a radio show.
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.
