Kenosha, WI
Laura Yurchak, CPDT-KA, CNWI, is a certified professional dog trainer with a passion for positive reinforcement and building strong bonds between dogs and their owners.
Laura's journey into the world of dog training began in 1998 with Loving Paws. After years of balancing her passion with a corporate career at Snap-on Tools and experience at Wolf Animal Hospital, she took the leap and transitioned Loving Paws into a full-time venture in 2004. Her dedication to animal care is evident in her additional certifications, including the Pet Care Technician Program from ABKA and CPR for dogs.
At the heart of Laura's training philosophy is the belief that force and pain have no place in a healthy dog-owner relationship. She emphasizes positive reinforcement techniques, focusing on rewarding desired behaviors while gently redirecting unwanted ones. This approach fosters trust, understanding, and a deeper connection between dogs and their humans.
Today, Laura specializes in K9 Nose Work, offering classes for dogs of all levels, from beginners to elite competitors. She also conducts Odor Recognition Tests (ORTs) and trials, providing valuable opportunities for dogs to showcase their scenting abilities.
Laura's expertise extends beyond K9 Nose Work. She is a:
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the APDT
- Certified Nose Work Instructor and Certifying Official through the NACSW
- Master Third Way trainer
Though she no longer offers the full range of classes she once did, her experience includes working with puppies, adolescents, adults, and shy dogs. Her past offerings encompassed obedience training, trick training, and fun rally classes, showcasing her versatility and commitment to meeting the diverse needs of her canine clients.
Laura's dedication to positive reinforcement and her impressive credentials make her a trusted resource for dog owners seeking to build lasting, loving relationships with their furry companions.
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.
