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Certified dog trainer
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson

Crestview, FL

Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson, also known as 'Kim', fell in love with training while learning to train dolphins at Sea Life Park On Oahu. She decided to help man's best friend after realizing dolphins don't walk on land. She specializes in helping dogs that have heightened emotions including fear, anxiety, aggression, and excitement. She believes that emotions dictate actions and dogs are no different. She helps dog owners discover the underlying emotions their dogs have that cause those emotions, making everything else easier to address. Being a military wife and having three children has taught her patience and grace, which she uses to help dog owners have patience and grace with themselves and their dogs.


Training Philosophy
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson considers herself a balanced trainer, meaning she's open to using tools like prong collars, but she tries to exercise all other options to help your dog understand what you're needing from them using positive reinforcement and motivation. She tries to help her clients not be reliant on a piece of equipment and doesn't believe that force or coercion will help you create the relationship with your dog that you're wanting.


Services
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson offers a variety of dog training programs, including:


  • Back To Basics Program: This program is typically completed in 4 lessons and addresses jumping on people, leash walking, behaviors like Sit, Down, and Stay, listening better at home, leaving things alone, and more. It includes text & email support during the program, notes on sessions, and 6 months of follow-up phone support.
  • Polished Pup Program: This program is perfect for dog owners that want more control with their dogs so they can do more with them at home or out and about. It includes everything from the Back To Basics Program, plus door manners, coming when called, low-level distractions, barking, and more. It includes text & email support during the program, notes on sessions, progress video feedback, online portal access, and 1 year of follow-up phone support.
  • Empowered Dog Program: This program includes everything in the previous two programs, along with teaching your dog to be calm on cue. It addresses barking at things or people, and helps your dog live a longer, stress-free life. It includes text, email, and messenger support during the program, notes on sessions, progress video feedback, in-between zoom sessions, lifetime online portal access, and unlimited phone and in-person follow-up sessions.
  • BEST START PupPY Program: This program is for puppies under 6 months of age and helps you get past the stress that accompanies having a puppy. It addresses potty training, grooming guidance and training, effective communication, puppy proofing the house, nipping & biting, and more. It includes text & email support, notes from sessions, and homework.
  • JUMP START Dog TRAINING Program: This program is for puppies under 6 months of age and gives you the tools to teach your puppy to shine at home among friends and family. It addresses effective communication at home, behaviors like Sit, down, and Stay, leaving things alone, coming when called, and nipping separation anxiety in the bud. It includes text & email support, notes from sessions, homework, video reviews and feedback, and 6 months of follow-up phone support.


Certifications
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA).


Specializations
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson specializes in helping dogs that have heightened emotions including fear, anxiety, aggression, and excitement.


Training Methods
Kimberly Samantha Hawkinson uses a balanced training approach, incorporating positive reinforcement and motivation. She is open to using tools like prong collars but prefers to use other methods first. She believes in building a strong relationship with the dog and does not use force or coercion.


Customer Reviews
- Jessica B.: "Kim was very informative and very focused when she was training. It made me very happy that she was engaged in the training."
- Cleo V.: "Kim is amazing, funny, and just down to earth."
- Melissa N.: "Kim explains things in a way that makes it easy to understand and she is so personable."
- Sheila M.: "Just after our first session we saw an immediate change in our dog."
- Angela M.: "My pups are no longer confused on what is right and wrong. They have learned their words and are working well with them."
- Carol G.: "Working with you has helped me gain better control over my puppy and show her that I am the boss."

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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