North Tonawanda, NY
Kristen Marie Hanley
Kristen Hanley got started in dog behavior because of a reactive little guy named Gideon. Adopting a leash reactive dog over 10 years ago is what lead to her eventual second career in dog training and behavior.
Training Philosophy
Kristen Hanley is passionate about helping both dogs and humans - helping both to feel happy and satisfied in their lives and relationships with each other. To have that, it means coming to a better understanding of each other, learning to communicate with each other, meeting each other's needs, and addressing unwanted behaviors. She uses reward based methods; without the use of pain, fear, or intimidation.
Services
Kristen Hanley offers a variety of services, including:
- Group Classes: Modern Family Dog basic training, Fear Fighters for scared dogs to build confidence, Drink With Your Dog® for advanced manners training in public places, K9 Nose Work®, and Resolving Reactivity - a class exclusive to Dogology WNY for leash reactive dogs.
- Private Lessons: Basic manners and cues like door manners, loose leash walking, leave it, wait, sit, down, recall, polite greetings, impulse control, settling on cue, or whatever else you want to work on!
- Virtual Lessons: Held via Google Meet or Zoom. They are a good option for difficult or busy schedules, very nervous dogs (or humans) who will be uncomfortable with a stranger in their home, or for clients on a budget.
- Behavior Modification: Using humane methods based in science to address troubling behaviors such as intra-household aggression, separation anxiety, fear, resource guarding, or reactivity.
- Dog Sports: K9 Nose Work® for both fun/enrichment and for students interested in trialing; and also periodically have classes about using sniffy and other types of enrichment to improve your dog's behavior.
- Pet adoption counseling / breed matching: If you need help choosing a breed, finding a breeder, or working with a rescue - reach out! Kristen Hanley spent many years volunteering with rescues and helping families find the right dog. As a Certified Family Dog Mediator, she has a solid education on breed traits and can help you find the right match for your home.
Certifications
Kristen Hanley is a:
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed
- Accredited Dog Trainer
- Certified Family Dog Mediator
- Certified Nose Work Instructor
Specializations
Kristen Hanley specializes in:
- Reactive dogs
- Behavior modification
- Separation anxiety
- Aggression
- Resource guarding
- Fear
- K9 Nose Work®
Training Methods
Kristen Hanley uses reward-based training methods, without the use of pain, fear, or intimidation. She is also certified in Family Dog Mediation and uses evidence-based methods.
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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.
