Andrea Marx started Freak on a Leash in 2015 because she is passionate about positive reinforcement training and teaching people the kindest ways of interacting with their dogs. She has been in the dog world for almost three decades. After spending her childhood consumed with horses, she got her first dog in college which began her journey in the world of training and more specifically dog sports, which became a primary focus for over 10 years. In 2009 she was exposed to the field of behavior analysis. This started an interest in the science of learning and behavior and a deeper dive into positive reinforcement and rewards-based training, eventually paving the way for her interest in professional training. She finds the study of behavior so fascinating and regularly continues her education in all things behavior modification.
Training Philosophy
Andrea Marx is passionate about positive reinforcement training and teaching people the kindest ways of interacting with their dogs. She believes that lasting behavior change takes patience and teamwork. Dogs are motivated by many things and she can find reinforcement that works; sometimes she just has to get creative! She wants you and your dog to live happily together, and she is confident she can help you reach your training goals.
Services
Freak On A Leash offers a variety of training options, including puppy training, manners and obedience training, and behavior modification to address behavioral challenges. They offer both group classes and private sessions. They also offer a day training option where a trainer will work with your dog one-on-one for a set number of sessions to reach your goals, ending with two follow up sessions to transfer the skills to you. They also offer a Puppy Train & Play option, which is a 4 hour program at their facility providing foundational skills training, enrichment, and socialization. Puppies receive individual 1:1 training sessions throughout their stay as well as appropriate socialization and playtime with well-matched puppies. They are also provided with regular potty breaks (including learning to potty on cue) and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Certifications
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) with IAABC
- Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA) with CCPDT
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) with CCPDT
- Professional Member of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
- Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI)
- Certified Stunt Dog Judge
- Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
- Pet FirstAid / CPR Certified
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Instructor
- AKC TemperamentTest Evaluator (ATT)
Specializations
Treating challenging behaviors like aggression, anxiety, and fear
Training Methods
Positive reinforcement techniques, which focus on engaging your dog as a willing partner in the training process through the use of rewards and encouragement.
Customer Reviews
Victoria, Virginia Beach:
I could not have asked for a better puppy trainer! Not only was Freak On A Leash super affordable but the reinforcement driven training really was exactly what our sweet puppy needed.
Laurie: Andrea is such an outstanding positive trainer and always has great tips and tricks if you have problems or concerns you need help with.
Greg and Kristin, Virginia Beach: Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of the hard work and dedication you have given Grizzly. Everyone is so grateful. We are excited to have him home and your number on speed-dial!
Keri: Thank you! Everyone has been watching your videos and they have been super helpful! He has learned so much in such a short time!
Dee, Moyock NC: I wish I could give you all 10 stars. Andrea is an amazing person and trainer. She loves what she does. She has compassion and patience and she never makes you feel uncomfortable and Pickles and myself look forward to our sessions. I 100% recommend Freak on a Leash.
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