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Certified dog trainer
Richard Hopkins
Richard Hopkins

Cary, IL

Best in Home Dog Services offers positive dog training, walking, and sitting, aiming to enhance the lives of both dogs and their owners by fostering a bond built on love and trust. This approach ensures that your dog remains content and secure.

The service is equipped with various certifications, training equipment, and a philosophy centered on positive reinforcement to encourage a genuine bond between dogs and their owners. The program covers a wide range of locations, including the Northwest Suburbs and Chicago, spanning areas such as McHenry, Lake, Cook, DuPage, Kane, DeKalb, and Boone.

Specific locations served include Woodstock, Marengo, Harvard, Hebron, Long Lake, Old Mill Creek, Poplar Grove, Burlington, Sycamore, Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Elgin, Carpentersville, Waukegan, Mundelein, Barrington, Deerfield, Arlington Heights, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Bloomingdale, St. Charles, Naperville, Park Ridge, Bartlett, Addison, and Bensenville.

Richard Hopkins oversees Best in Home Dog Services, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge in dog training, walking, and sitting. His passion for working with dogs began early in life, influenced by a family lineage of dog trainers.

After starting a grassroots dog walking and sitting business in 2010, Richard actively trained clients' dogs to gain valuable experience. His mentor, Cathryn Jurewicz, with over 26 years of experience, played a pivotal role in shaping his expertise.

Richard apprenticed under her for six months and worked alongside her for four years, learning extensively from her wealth of knowledge. Throughout his career, Richard has drawn inspiration from the works of B.F. Skinner, Ian Dunbar, Karen Pryor, and Patricia McConnell.

His professional journey led him to manage and lead dog training programs at various daycare and boarding facilities, honing his skills in designing and implementing effective training regimens. This experience culminated in the founding of Best in Home Dog Training in 2013, which later evolved into Best in Home Dog Services, officially registered in April of 2015.

Richard's approach has allowed him to effectively train, walk, and care for numerous dogs, employing only positive methods. His extensive experience spans dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments, including those with special behavioral or medical needs.

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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