About Us
Technique. Follow Through. Growth.
Our mission is to empower dog owners to achieve the best possible relationship with their companion by providing unparalleled training techniques, unwavering commitment to follow-through and education, and fostering continuous growth and development for both the dog and the owner. We are committed to utilizing a fear free approach, combining nonverbal communication with enrichment and motivation to tap into your pet’s potential for achieving success and happiness for both you and your dog.

Jonathan Young LFDM-T, IAABC-ADT
About Jonathan
With over a decade of experience in Dog Training since September of 2010, I have honed my expertise through extensive education and practical application.
During the years 2010 to 2012, I completed a rigorous 2-year hands-on training course that provided me with comprehensive knowledge in reading canine body language, dog behavior, handling, and training by working with shelter dogs. During this time i worked with numerous dogs each having to pass their AKC CGC and APDT C.L.A.S.S. testing. This immersive experience included 300 hours of practical teaching in group class instruction and behavioral handling. Passing over a
During my years of involvement in Dog Training from 2010 to 2012, I had the honor of training a remarkable rescue corgi named Dobbie. This exceptional dog, did amazingly well with learning foundation cues and was featured and promoted in a Dog Fancy Magazine for a Furminator ad. Witnessing the accomplishments of this beloved canine partner brought immense pride and further reinforced my commitment to the art and science of dog training. Their recognition in the magazine stands as a testament to the effectiveness and dedication infused into my training methodologies.
In 2013, I successfully completed the “Positive Dog Training” course offered by Petco, successfully completing over 40 hours of specialized training. In 2014, I obtained certification as a “Mentor Trainer Instructor”, solidifying my expertise in being able to impart these very skills effectively onto people wanting to follow down the path of becoming a dog trainer.
From 2013 to 2016, I served as a Group Obedience Dog Trainer at Petco, providing exceptional training experiences to numerous clients. During this time, I also took on the role of mentoring new hires, further demonstrating my leadership abilities and dedication to professional development.
Between 2016 and 2018, I had the privilege of being a part of “A New Leash for Life,” a program dedicated to training service dogs. During my time with this remarkable organization, I played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of both canines and their human companions. Through rigorous and specialized training, we honed the skills of these extraordinary service dogs, empowering them to provide invaluable assistance and support to individuals in need. This experience profoundly enriched my understanding of the impact that well-trained service dogs can have on the lives of those they serve, reinforcing my passion for dog training and its ability to create positive change.
As an approved American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Class Testing Evaluator since 2017, I have demonstrated my commitment to maintaining the highest standards in canine training and behavior evaluation. Additionally, in 2018, I gained approval as an American Temperament Test Evaluator, further expanding my capabilities.
Since 2014, I have been a committed Mentor Instructor for Animal Behavior College, guiding and shaping the next generation of aspiring dog trainers.
My professionalism and commitment to pet training has been recognized by the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP), where I earned professional membership in 2017.
Additionally, from 2016 to 2018, I served as a Service Dog class Instructor for MOPP, contributing my skills to helping veterans learn how to build a relationship with their dogs and help the dogs learn how to respond to the various needs each individual veteran required..
In 2017, I took the leap to establish my own successful Dog Training Company. My services include group obedience classes, personalized one-on-one sessions, and a boot camp board and train option, tailored to address various training needs from fundamental obedience to advanced service-level work.
With a strong emphasis on continuous improvement, I acquired Pet CPR/First Aid Certification through the Front Line Coalition in April of 2022.
Furthermore, my pursuit of excellence led me to undertake the rigorous certification exam through the IACP, this required submitting 3 active case studies examining the problems the clients were incuring with their pets and a start to finish of how i worked out a behavior plan to help them understand how to address their dogs’ maladaptive behaviors. This earned me the title of Certified Dog Trainer in February of 2023. Realizing the neutral stance and support the iacp has with aversive tools I have since servered any affiliation with this organization.
In recognition of my expertise and dedication, I was accepted into both the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) in March of 2023. Subsequently, I sought and obtained the Dog Trainer Accreditation through the IAABC, solidifying my standing as a distinguished professional in the field.
I am also a proud member of the Pet Professional Guild, an organization dedicated to promoting force-free and ethical practices in the pet industry.
Continuing my commitment to advanced learning, I completed the Aggression in Dogs Master Course, created by renowned expert Michael Shikashio, in May of 2023. This venture opened a door to a world of professionals to gain input from about cases as well as being granted bi-weekly mentorship by Mr. Shikashio himself.
Moreover, in June of 2023, I completed the L.E.G.S.® Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation® Professional Course, earning the Family Dog Mediator Certification and becoming a Licensed FDM in their Dog Training division.
In Aug of 2023 I took on Pet Harmony’s Pet Pro course for enrichment for a deep dive into their understanding of applying enrichment with our canine companions. This led to getting some foundation brush up on consulting practices to help challenge what I think I know and a clear mind wipe of realizing how much enrichment is lacking in our canine companion’s day to day lives.
Currently, I am working towards my Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist Diploma. My years of working with specific aggression cases and having a very deep interest in understanding behavior I felt that having credentials in an unregulated industry is vitally important. Especially when there are so called trainers claiming to know this or that and are completely doing major damage to the very dogs they claim to be helping.
I am committed to helping all dogs, from reactive and aggressive to bright-eyed green behind the ear’s puppies. My approach is fueled by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and expertise, constantly elevating my skills and techniques. I firmly believe that growth in this industry is not just a goal but a necessity, ensuring the services offered meet the highest standards of dog welfare and customer satisfaction in an industry heavily unregulated.
To stay at the forefront of the industry, I’m actively pursuing additional certifications and continuous education. I believe in being a proactive learner, always seeking new insights, the latest research, and innovative approaches. I’m always learning from the dog I work with, and it would be dumb of me to think I know enough to not actively challenge my understanding. My engagement with various esteemed organizations has opened doors to invaluable resources, cited peer-reviewed research, active communications with professionals I would have never dreamed of receiving feedback on cases from, and critical data that enrich my understanding and methodologies. This collaborative network also provides major support and mentorship from highly respected professionals, further enhancing the quality and effectiveness of the services I can provide.
I am dedicated to making a difference in the lives of both dogs and their owners, and I am excited to share this journey with you.
Credentials
Achieved Credentials
- Licensed Family Dog Mediator
- Certified Dog Trainer – IACP
- Accredited Dog Trainer- IAABC
- American Kennel Club ATT, CGC, & S.T.A.R. Puppy Evaluator
- APDT C.L.A.S.S. Evaluator
- Mentor Instructor Trainer for the Animal Behavior College
Continuing Education
- – Master Course Aggression in Dogs
- – Treat – Retreat with Suzanne Clothier
- – Toward a New Understanding of C..A.T.
- – Fearful Felines and Fido: Defensive handling techniques for fear aggressive cats and dogs
- – How to break up a Dog Fight
- – Learning the Ropes: All things Leash handling with Michael Shikashio and Grisha Stewart
- – Leash Reactivity Webinar
- – Using Enrichment to treat aggression
- – Introduction to CARAT (Clothiers Animal Response Assessment Tool)
- –Protocols for Success: Dr. Karen Overall’s Protocols for Deference, Take a Breath and Smart Pet
- -Practical RCT Techniques for Aggression Cases
- – Resource Guarding or Rule Setting
- Predation Substitute Training Webinar: New ways to manage predatory chasing!
B.A.T. Behavior Adjustment Training
- – BAT 101: (Re)Socialization for Aggression, Frustration, & Fear
- – BAT for Geeks: A Technical Perspective on Behavior Adjustment Training 2.0
- – Resilient, Responsive Social Skills: Intro to BAT 3.0 for Dog Reactivity
- – Barking Mad: BAT & Other Techniques for Frustration
- – BAT Practice at Shelters
- – Talk With Me! Simple Steps for 2-Way Understanding Between Dogs and People (BAT Empowerment)
- – Walk With Me! Safety, Fun, and Freedom with Leash Training for You and Your Dog (BAT Empowerment)
- – Problem Prevention in Puppies and Dogs: an Empowered Approach to Life with Dogs (BAT Empowerment)
- – Survival Skills: Coping with Dog Reactivity in Real Life (BAT Empowerment)
- – BAT 2.0 Set-Ups: How to Orchestrate Basic Set-Ups and Variations with Dogs (BAT Empowerment)
Currently in the process working towards achieving.
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant- IAABC
- Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor – cBati
- MHERA Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist Diploma
What he Specializes in
- I have spent 85% of my career working with 8 to 16 week old puppies. Socializing, building confidence and ensuring their needs are being met within their developmental stage.
- Service dog training- PTSD Dogs – 70% of my career has been spent training and teaching dogs how to perform specific tasks for clients. I have not only trained the dogs but have spent time teaching classes helping others reinforce and train their dogs to understand how to follow with the cues taught.
- 40% of my career has been working with reactive high intensity dogs.
Our Partners
Testimonials
Have a question?
FAQs
Are We Here to Scare You Into “Positive Only”? Why Do We Oppose So-Called “Balanced” Trainers?
Short answer: We’re not trying to scare you—our goal is to provide credible, up-to-date scientific information so you can make informed decision about your dog’s well-being.
1. The Evolving Science of Dog Training
- Why it matters: Early training theories often emerged before we had modern tools for understanding emotions, stress, and learning. Many “balanced” trainers cite studies or practices rooted in outdated science that predates our current knowledge of affective neuroscience (the study of the neurological foundations of emotions) and fear conditioning.
- What’s changed:
- Jaak Panksepp’s work on the SEEKING, FEAR, and PANIC systems in animals has revolutionized how we view canine emotional states.
- Robert Sapolsky’s research on stress biology helps us see the long-term impacts of chronic fear or anxiety on the brain and body.
- Joseph LeDoux demonstrates how fear conditioning can drastically alter behaviors and neural pathways—key insights that older research could only guess at.
2. Where “Balanced” Methods Fall Short
- Reliance on outdated assumptions: Using prong or shock collars often stems from older notions that punishment is an effective way to teach. While it can suppress behavior, it can also trigger fear and anxiety—an effect we now understand more thoroughly, thanks to modern neuroscience.
- Overlooking emotional welfare: Many “balanced” trainers still view a dog’s behavior in purely mechanical terms (stimulus → response), without factoring in the dog’s emotional state. Contemporary research from experts like Karen Pryor, Karen Overall, and Patricia B. McConnell emphasizes the importance of addressing emotions, context, and underlying motivations for lasting behavior change.
3. Up-To-Date, Science-Backed Alternatives
- Positive reinforcement & behavioral science: Newer, comprehensive strategies—like Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), Treat-Retreat, Engage/Disengage, LATTE, and relaxation protocols—integrate modern findings on canine cognition and emotional well-being.
- Holistic approach: Zazie Todd and Mark Bekoff both stress the importance of enrichment and empathy in training. Rather than suppressing unwanted behaviors, these methods address root causes—boredom, stress, fear, under-stimulation—providing proactive and humane solutions.
4. Why We Believe This Matters
- Emotional Well-Being:
- Dogs can experience stress, fear, and even trauma. Outdated or aversive methods can compound these issues and lead to new ones.
- Daniel Goleman’s work on emotional intelligence reminds us that learning is most effective when the learner feels safe and supported.
- Stronger Human-Dog Relationship:
- Patricia B. McConnell underscores the human-dog bond as pivotal to successful training. Trust-building, not fear, should be the foundation.
- Ethical Responsibility:
- We know more now than ever before—thanks to advances in neuroscience, psychology, and ethology. As knowledge evolves, so should our methods.
- Continuous Professional Development:
- Look for trainers who regularly attend seminars, read peer-reviewed research, and invest in ongoing education. Trophies and titles may show experience, but they don’t always reflect current scientific understanding.
- Karen Overall’s rigorous scientific work and Kim Brophey’s L.E.G.S. Model emphasize the need to evaluate all factors—Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self—before concluding a training approach.
5. Addressing the Myth of Morality in Dogs
- Dogs are amoral: They aren’t guided by a human concept of “right vs. wrong.” Chewing the carpet or destroying a cord isn’t a moral failing but a natural exploratory or stress-relieving behavior.
- Understanding leads to better solutions: When we grasp why dogs do what they do—be it genetics, stress, or simple curiosity—we can guide them with empathy and scientifically sound methods instead of punishment.
In Closing: Why We Advocate for Science-Based, Compassionate Training
- Not about fear tactics: We don’t oppose “balanced” training to scare you or to dismiss other trainers’ passion for animals. We do so because decades of more current research—and our own experiences—demonstrate that humane, evidence-backed methods are both kinder and more effective in the long run.
- Empowerment through knowledge: From Jaak Panksepp and Joseph LeDoux on fear conditioning, to Karen Pryor and Patricia B. McConnell on modern training techniques, the consensus is clear: we can teach dogs without force or fear.
- A better bond, a better life: Compassionate training doesn’t just produce obedient behaviors—it fosters a relationship built on trust, understanding, and genuine cooperation.
We’re here to help you make the most informed decision for your dog’s well-being by presenting clear, up-to-date research—not by pushing “positive only” out of fear tactics. When science repeatedly shows that using pain or fear is unnecessary (and potentially harmful), we believe it’s our responsibility to share these findings and support a kinder, more effective path forward.
Do I need to make an appointment?
We welcome you to call or email to ask any questions. Our home page has an option for you to easily send a quick inquiry or schedule a phone or virtual services inquiry at a time that is convenient for you. Our services inquiry is a free 30-minute q&a that answers any and all questions you may have about the services we currently offer.
Do I need to speak to the trainer to enroll in one of our services?
No, our website has been set up to allow you the ability to pay and book your desired service. The trainer may call or reach out to you via one of the communication methods you have provided to gain additional information if not enough was provided. Understand that all of our services aim to educate you along with your pet to ensure you are both successful in the training journey.
What is the Difference Between L.I.F.E (Least Intrusive Functionally Effective compared to L.I.M.A. (Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive)
The Least Inhibitive, Functionally Effective (LIFE) Model: A New Framework for Ethical Animal Training Practices “training ethically matching behavior change to its cause.”
L.I.M.A.’s intended purpose:
What becomes clear in these statements was that LIMA was not intended to be an attempt to minimize the use of aversive stimuli, as many modern force-free trainers have conceptualized. Instead, Lindsay intended LIMA to be a framework to help trainers select their aversive stimuli and tools. As one of the latter statements in the handbook concludes:
“Aversive procedures are legitimate and valuable tools for controlling undesirable behavior…” (p. 725).
Click here to Read about L.I.F.E.
Click here to understand what L.I.M.A. is.
What is a balanced Trainer? (Sometimes noted as R+/L.I.M.A. Compliant) How do I Find the Right trainer?
Common misconceptions about positive dog training. The fear free / force free approach.
What is Owner Focused Sessions?
Owner Focused sessions are single hour sessions that work on specific goals to strengthen the bond and relationship with your pup/dog. Dogs do not know our rules nor how to live within our home. Its important for us to peer through the lens of L.E.G.S. to help us understand how that can teach our canine companions how to navigate our human world. Whether you just have something simple to a string of undesired behaviors your first step will be booking a consultation.
What is a consultation?
The consultation is the first step in your journey to help understand how to address your pets undesired behavior. This 90-minute session will devote time into breaking down what our current to future focus will be. Discover whether a package is needed afterwards or if that session helped cover the how to for the behavior that brought you to us. We will breakdown enrichment strategies, assess the current routine pattern, isolate your pet’s needs, build out a plan of action towards success along with implementing the training for your dog.
What we see other trainers market a consultation as:
- Free 30-minute session
- A meet to discuss what you are needing
This is what’s covered under our Services Inquiry
Which training option is best for me and my dog: Board & Train, Daycamp(Hands-off In-Home), Owner-Focused Sessions, or Group Classes?
Bootcamp Board and Train: This option is best for those who have a busy lifestyle and limited time. The trainer will do the heavy lifting and help your puppy adjust to the human world. This option is best for those who want their dog to learn quickly and efficiently with minimal involvement from the owner. We prioritize the owners role by educating and spending time with them to help them learn how to reinforce and continue their pup/dogs development
Day Camp Training: This option is a great balance between owner involvement and professional training. It is ideal for those who have a busy schedule but still want to be involved in the training process. The trainer will work with your dog during the day and you’ll follow through with the training at home. This option allows for daily feedback and focus from the trainer as your puppy learns and grows with the training.
Owner-Focused or Group Classes: This option is best for those who have time on their hands, want to learn, and want to be the primary trainer of their dog. These classes are focused on teaching owners how to communicate and get the desired responses from their dog within their home and social life.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your lifestyle, the specific goals you have for your dog, and how much time and involvement you are willing to commit to the training process. It’s important to consider your personal situation and choose the option that will work best for you and your dog.
Is a puppy/dog board and train worth the investment?
Yes and no, If you are the hands-on type that enjoys being apart of every moment and doing the teaching yourself then group or owner focused might be the best route for you. For those who have a busy chaotic life yes, the trainer does all the hard work teaching the concepts and you just reinforce when they come home. Enrolling your puppy at 8 weeks sets them up for continued success with constant dog-to-dog socialization. Home and work life can be chaotic and limits the invested time needed to guide an attention craved puppy as they explore and discover all the scents and textures our home and outside world have to offer. Having a professional trainer guiding your pup in a structured environment increases their response to making nondestructive decisions, establishing coping mechanisms such as teaching a leave it (lose interest in the cable cord, pizza/burger on the table, shoes in the closet.) sit for attention instead of jumping and clawing. Polite leash mannerisms compared to excessive arm pulling during walks. Trainers can recognize initial fear responses that sometimes get reinforced within the home environment. A structured training environment focusing on your pets needs can help to avoid reinforcing and developing an avoidance or fear to seeing or hearing the trash can, vacuum, or person riding the bicycle down the sidewalk among other things.
Board and train offers a variety of benefits for puppies and dogs. Some of the key benefits include:
- Who your dog is – Assesses your dog’s needs and helps cater the stay to help them learn and understand how to adapt to our world. High intensity or dogs shy and worried about their surroundings may need more time and a modified plan outside of the base focus of the general board and train program.
- Effectively disrupts the rehearsal of undesired behaviors. Through focused training and a structured environment, the program intervenes to break the cycle of negative habits, providing a foundation for positive change in your pet’s decision making.
- Dog-to-dog socialization, which helps puppies and dogs develop social skills and become more well-adjusted companions.
- Constant body handling, which helps prevent paw or tail sensitivities and promotes a positive association with being touched and handled.
- Exposure to different people, places, and things, which helps decrease unexpected fear responses and helps puppies and dogs develop a well-adjusted mindset during the critical fear and socialization stages.
- Learning basic cues such as sit, leave it, come, and proper behavior in different situations such as greeting people, potty training and crate training.
- Teaching your dog to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate objects to chew on and play with.
- Promoting a healthy mindset and behavior towards the house rules and routine, which will make the transition to the new home a lot smoother.
- Consistency in training: Board and Train provides consistent training, which helps dogs learn and retain cues and behaviors more effectively.
- Professional guidance: Led by an experienced trainer who has 13 years of knowledge and expertise to address any issues or concerns that may arise during the training process.
- Time-efficient: Board & Train is an immersive training program that covers a lot of ground in a short amount of time, making it a time-efficient option for busy owners.
- Customizable: Our Positive Creations option can be tailored to fit the specific needs and goals of your dog and your household.
Board and train – Is there any training for me and will it matter if I’m not involved in the actual training?
Yes, on the day of drop-off, we will spend between 1 to 3 hours going over everything the puppy/dog has learned, offering demonstrations and answering any and all additional questions you may have. You have a busy life, and we know how excited you both will be to be back together so to help prep you, our focus is to educate you! You’re going to receive vital information within the first week of them starting. Additionally, as part of our commitment to your ongoing success, clients will receive an allotment of emails detailing various topics vital to ensuring you are prepped and ready for your pets return home. These emails will also provide valuable resources to aid you in feeling confident and prepared when your pup returns home.
During the final week, we’ll also send out a packet that details all the cues learned; how they were taught, and the temporary adjustments needed in your home environment to ensure success. The puppy/dog will still need follow-up from you when she/he comes home. But this is nowhere near the same as a puppy/dog who has learned nothing and has no clue what your expectations are of them within the home. The difference here is that the puppy has already tackled the learning and figuring-out part, and all you are doing now is redefining the relationship developed by showing them that the training applies in this home as well. Not all breeds are the same, nor do all dogs learn at the same pace. A high intensity or fearful shy dog will not show the same success as a confident dog/pup but will make success in their own way.
Will my dog lose the bond with me if they attend the board and train?
Rest assured, your dog will not lose the bond with you during their time with us. Dogs have a remarkable ability to remember their owners, and our program is designed to reinforce and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion. Additionally, to support you during your dog’s stay, we provide an allotment of emails covering various topics to keep you engaged in learning and understanding how to prepare for your dog’s return. Your bond will remain strong, and with our guidance, you’ll both continue to grow closer throughout the training process.
Where will my dog stay if they attend the board and train?
Your dog will stay within our family home during their learning process. They’ll live among us, just like our own dogs, with the exception of a few management factors put in place to help them learn how to make appropriate decisions. Dogs who stay with us sleep in wire crates overnight, providing them with a safe and secure resting space while also allowing for proper management during their training. We provide a comfortable and nurturing environment where your dog can thrive and receive personalized attention throughout their training journey.
What does a typical day or experience for my dog look like during the board and train?
Your dogs day will be a mix of structured training sessions, supervised playtime with appropriate dogs, and downtime in an x-pen or kennel to allow for rest and processing. Training is integrated throughout the day in both structured exercises and real-life applications.
Pickup and delivery times
We want this to be easy for you – Our updated booking system allows you to schedule your start and end dates in advance. Not ready for your dog to attend now select a future date. The scheduler also allows you to automatically add the date to your iPhone or google calendar to make planning and setting reminders smooth and easy. Click here to start
Is it possible to visit my dog during their board and train?
Yes, I understand how much you care for your furry companion! You have the option to purchase 30-minute visits at checkout when selecting your desired stay length. These visits are not training sessions but an opportunity for you to spend time with your dog. We can arrange a suitable public location for the visit to ensure a comfortable and positive experience.
Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely – in fact, we encourage it. If however, you would like us to take care of your dog’s food needs, we can gladly do that as well. Any money spent will get added to the end bill. Note due to timing constraints we ask that you provide the full amount if not we will purchase the brand you feed your pet while they are in our care.
Can my dog be taken to my preferred grooming salon?
Yes, we are more than happy to travel to your stylist to ensure your puppy gets the best care during his/her bath and cut. Note that if your stylist lives over an hour away from us we would require to plan this in advance along with an incurred travel fee.
Extra fees?
Dog food is provided by you during training, with all excess returned back with dog upon completion. Any extra food required will be added to invoice upon returning your pup. Brand/type can be selected by pet parent or chosen by us!
Veterinarian visits: We can take your pet to all scheduled vaccine appts and regular wellness checks while in our care. The client can set up appointments at their preferred office or we can take your pet to our partnered vet (Animal Talk, Wentzville MO). We will discuss with you any required vet fees, share all vet recommendations in the situation for you to make the best decision on what you want to spend during those visits. We will cover the cost during the training and add it to the end bill or you can prepay. Whichever is more convenient for you.
Do you offer Group Obedience classes?
At this time we currently are not offering group classes. We have found more success with clients and their dogs when working one on one with a trainer getting focused attention. Check out our Owner Focused Sessions.
How does DayCamp training work?
Maybe, Day Camp training can be a highly effective method for achieving results with your dog as long as you the pet owner follow through with the nightly training. The program is designed to give your dog focused one-on-one attention with an experienced trainer, working through the desired cues and behaviors set within the curriculum. The program also includes owner-focused sessions that teach you how to follow through with the training at home and reinforce what was taught each day during the night and weekends. The individual lessons are vital for the success of the course as the major element of training is environmental management. This approach allows for the dog to be trained in real-life scenarios and transfer the learned behaviors to their daily life and routine. This comprehensive approach has been proven to be effective in achieving success and happiness for both the dog and the owner.
We encourage you to learn more about the local animal rescue and adoption organizations we support.
SPCA, non-profit animal welfare organizations around the world