Fort Worth, TX
Tess Windhauser
Tess Windhauser originally went to Texas Christian University to become an art teacher with a plan to eventually become an art therapist, but a puppy came into her life. As she learned more about how to be the best pet parent she could be, she started realizing that the path she was on was not her own. She changed her major and graduated with a major in Studio Art, a minor in Psychology, and a minor in Educational Studies (Teaching). While art still remains a hobby, her true passion for helping pet parents to also be the best they can be has become a life-long mission.
Training Philosophy
Tess Windhauser believes that training should be rewarding for both the owner and the dog. She uses positive reinforcement methods and avoids any punishment that a dog might dislike. She believes that training should feel like playing, not chores, and that owners should learn their dog's language in order to communicate effectively. She also emphasizes the importance of using methods that are backed by scientific evidence.
Services
Tess Windhauser offers a variety of services, including:
- Manners (Obedience): Teaching dogs basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and down, as well as how to control their behavior voluntarily.
- Problem Management and Behavior Modification: Addressing common behavioral issues such as barking, bolting, jumping, leash pulling, resource guarding, and separation anxiety.
- First Puppy/New Puppy/First Dog/New Dog with Existing Pets: Helping owners prepare for a new puppy or dog, including socialization, house training, crate training, and bite inhibition.
- Training & Behavior: Working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds to teach them new behaviors and prevent unwanted behaviors.
Certifications
Tess Windhauser holds the following certifications:
- Animal Behavior College Graduate (ABCDT), 2011
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), 2013
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP), 2015
- Certified Canine Behavior Consultant - Knowledge Assessed (CCBC-KA), 2018
- Fear Free Certified Animal Trainer
Specializations
Tess Windhauser specializes in positive reinforcement training methods and works with dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. She has experience in addressing a wide range of behavioral issues, including those related to puppies, new dogs, and dogs with existing pets.
Training Methods
Tess Windhauser uses marker/clicker training, which involves using an event marker (like a clicker) and valuable rewards to teach wanted behaviors. She believes this method speeds up the learning process, strengthens the human-animal bond, produces long-term results, encourages creativity and initiative, and is a forgiving training method.
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.
