Peter Herrera is a dog trainer and the founder and owner of Umwelt Dog Training. He is passionate about working with dogs and their people. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology and psychology from Brown University and has experience as a research and teaching assistant. His studies focused on ethology and comparative psychology, which inform his training methods. He was also a co-founder of Brown Animal-Assisted Therapy and served as a veterinary assistant at Elizabeth Veterinary Clinic in Elizabeth, NJ. He has extensive experience working with dogs in shelter settings, particularly with anxious, reactive, and under-socialized dogs. He is also a trainer at Hudson’s Hounds NYC.
Training Philosophy
Peter believes that training should be humane, enjoyable, and rooted in science. He uses positive reinforcement-based training and behavior modification methods.
Services
Umwelt Dog Training offers a variety of services, including:
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Phone Session:
A 1-hour phone conversation to discuss challenges, goals, and the dog’s history. This can be used as an initial session or refresher session for puppy training and behavior modification. Price: $125
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Puppy Session:
A 1.5-hour in-home visit designed to address general obedience, socialization, coping with puppy “problem behaviors” such as chewing and vocalization, clicker training, crate training, potty training, and loose-leash walking. Price: $220 (discounted package available if deemed appropriate after the first session)
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Behavior Modification Session:
A 1.5-hour in-home visit designed to work through more challenging problem behaviors such as anxiety and fear, reactivity, nipping and jumping, improper elimination, and pulling on leash. Price: $220 (discounted package available if deemed appropriate after the first session)
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Pre-Adoption Session:
A 1-hour phone conversation designed to prepare a family and home for a new dog. Price: $125
Certifications
Peter is certified by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and is a Canine Good Citizen evaluator.
Specializations
Peter is especially confident with anxious, reactive, and under-socialized dogs. He also specializes in puppy training, behavior modification, and general obedience.
Training Methods
Peter uses force-free methods and positive reinforcement-based training.
