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Certified dog trainer
Katarina Maya Wakil
Katarina Maya Wakil

Houston, TX

Katarina Maya Wakil

Katarina Maya Wakil's journey into the world of dogs began with her own dog, Oliver. She was initially terrified of dogs but Oliver changed her life and inspired her to start training dogs. She has been working as a dog trainer for the past 5 years and has applied it to all aspects of her life. She currently owns a 6-year-old faded calico cat, M&M, and her current service dog, a Greater Swiss, Hyperion.

Training Philosophy

Katarina Maya Wakil believes in positive reinforcement methods and strives to create a happy, loving environment for both pets and owners. She emphasizes communication and understanding between dogs and their owners, building trust and a strong bond. She believes dogs are a part of the family and deserve to be cared for and listened to as such.

Services

Katarina Maya Wakil offers a wide range of services including:

  • Dog Training: Private training sessions, basic obedience (sit, down, stay, leave it/drop it, loose leash walking, touch, etc.), therapy dog work, service dog work, and mild to moderate reactivity.
  • Dog Walking: She follows the owners' walking rules and encourages sniff breaks for mental enrichment. She also walks reactive dogs.
  • Dog Sitting: She treats each pet as if they are her own, following the owner's rules and providing love and respect. She offers overnight stays and multiple visits during the day.
  • Walk and Train: She combines walking with training, teaching loose leash walking and basic commands. She offers a 30-minute transfer lesson halfway through and at the end of the program.
  • Group Classes: Puppy socialization classes and Puppy PreK (basic obedience).

Certifications

Katarina Maya Wakil holds the following certifications:

  • CCPDT-KA (Canine Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed)
  • CCDT (Certified Canine Dog Trainer), or CATCH Academy Certification
  • Cat and Dog First Aid and CPR Certified

Specializations

Katarina Maya Wakil specializes in:

  • Positive reinforcement training
  • Basic obedience
  • Therapy dog work
  • Service dog work
  • Mild to moderate reactivity
  • Puppy socialization
  • Loose leash walking

Training Methods

Katarina Maya Wakil uses positive reinforcement methods, scientific methods, and management techniques to solidify the relationship between owners and their dogs. She emphasizes going at the dog's pace and building a foundation of learning.

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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