Kansas City, MO
Sean Savage is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and co-founder of Beyond the Dog. He and his wife, Dr. Kristyn Echterling-Savage, started Beyond the Dog in 2005. Sean has been training dogs for decades and has developed the training methods that Beyond the Dog uses today. He and Dr. Echterling-Savage are both former marine mammal trainers.
Training Philosophy
Beyond the Dog uses a science-based approach to dog training, combining the latest research in dog behavior with ethical practices. They focus on positive reinforcement and classical counterconditioning, and they do not use shock collars, choke collars, or prong collars. They believe that training should be fun and rewarding for both the dog and the owner.
Services
Beyond the Dog offers a variety of dog training services, including:
- Puppy Training: Potty training, crate training, socialization, chewing, puppy biting, jumping, and basic obedience commands.
- Dog Training: Obedience training, dog reactivity, human reactivity, guest reactivity, resource guarding, and other behavioral concerns.
- Cat Training: Basic obedience and behavioral concerns.
- Board and Train: Dogs live in the trainer's home for three to four weeks and receive intensive training.
- Consultations: One-hour consultations to discuss training goals and develop a personalized plan.
Certifications
Sean Savage is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC). Dr. Kristyn Echterling-Savage is a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) and a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Specializations
Beyond the Dog specializes in puppy training, dog training, and cat training. They also have expertise in addressing behavioral concerns such as dog reactivity, human reactivity, guest reactivity, resource guarding, and more.
Training Methods
Beyond the Dog uses positive reinforcement and classical counterconditioning. They do not use shock collars, choke collars, or prong collars. They believe that training should be fun and rewarding for both the dog and the owner.
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.
