Act Like A Human Think Like A Dog

Serves Naperville, IL

35244

Hired 26 times

1 employee

2 years in business

$150

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, and Zelle.

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Credentials

Background Check

Kevin Murdaugh
Completed on 3/23/2023

Introduction

"Act Like A Human...Think Like A Dog" I am not a dog trainer. My focus is behavior rehabilitation and relationship coaching. My goal is to educate dog owners on the social hardwiring of their dog and Canines in general, as this is where behavioral issues must be addressed. The only training and educating I do is for the owners and anyone involved with the dog in question's life. My focus is on the relationship dynamic that has already been established between the dog and their owner, and how to change that dynamic through the type of interactions that are taking place between the dog and the people involved. Most behavioral problems are the result of imbalanced relationship dynamics, lack of rules, boundaries, and structure, and ineffective communication which leads to a lack of trust, respect, and control. I do not use tools such as shock collars, clickers, prong collars, and while I do bring food to my sessions, I hardly use it unless it is warranted. My guidance requires that you understand that us as the human beings responsible for our dogs are the greatest tool necessary to achieve change in the relationships we build with our dogs. Everything comes down to control, power, and respect. Trust naturally comes with these principles. What is lost in mainstream "training" is the understanding of how dogs operate, and how to communicate with them in an effective way, which comes down to influence, and how we interact with dogs. I aim to empower you with the knowledge of how behavioral problems develop, and how you play a crucial role in reversing them. With the right approach, you will be shocked how quickly your dog can change. I have 15 years with aggressive behavior modification - please contact me if your situation is dire. WHAT YOU WILL GAIN IN A SINGLE SESSION WITH ME: 1. How to establish healthy boundaries 2. How to correct unwanted and disrespectful behavior 3. How to create structure in the home and in your communication 4. How to properly reward and when to give affection 5. How to walk on the leash properly 6. How to establish trust and respect 7. How to address aggressive behaviors of all types 8. How to teach basic obedience 9. How to be consistent in everything you do with your dog 10. Developing confidence in handling and leading your dog. 11. Which tools to use when and why 12. How to build confidence in an insecure, anxious, or fearful dog.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

Each session is a guaranteed 2 hours. Additional time is free. $150 per session for leash training $200 per session for behavioral issues and in home coaching $250 per session for aggressive behavior modification $50 for additional dog I strive to give as much value per session as I can so you can minimize the amount of sessions necessary to accomplish your goals. I also include a written protocol and instructions for each client once I've assessed the needs of your dog and the proper strategy for the issues you are experiencing and how to resolve them moving forward, as well as a follow up to see how everything is going.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I begin with a free phone consultation to get a clearer picture of the behavioral problems they are experiencing as well as more information about their dog. From there we schedule a time for me to come to their home, and once I'm there I observe the dog's behavior as well as how the owner interacts with the dog. Sometimes it requires some troubleshooting on my end, but it's a process of figuring out why the dog is doing what it's doing and what it responds to. For specific behaviors I simulate situations to prompt the dog to engage in the unwanted behavior. I then intervene and show the owner how would approach an interaction with their dog, explain why I'm doing what I'm doing, and then once the owner sees the difference in their dog, I start teaching the owner how to apply the principles and skills necessary to achieving long term results.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

No formal training, just many years of experience working with many different dogs with many different problems.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

By adopting 2 of my own dogs. I discovered that I was very good with dogs, and I learned a very different way of addressing problems through my own trial and error, and developing a deeply rewarding relationship with my dogs. My male dog was very aggressive towards certain people and dogs, and rehabilitating him gave me tremendous insight into how dog's operate and how to fix serious issues long term, as well as a particular set of skills for working with strong breeds and strong personalities.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I've worked with individuals who have had problems with aggression, anxiety, obedience, destructive behavior, leash pulling, resource guarding, and other issues. The only types of clients I have found difficulty working with are ones who expect me to train their dog and don't involve themselves in the process. These clients never achieve the results they are looking for, and I am only looking to work with individuals who are striving to learn and grow with their dog, and simply need the right tools and knowledge to bridge the gap in their understanding of how they are relating to their dog, and are willing to put in the work necessary to overcome their obstacles.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

I would recommend having a phone consultation with many different trainers and see who you respond the best to and who may be the best for your particular situation before making a final decision. Speaking with a person is much different than reading a profile.