Chicago Dog Trainer
Home of the ForceFree Method
Marc Goldberg | Patrick Farrell
Text or Call: 224-407-2131

St. Charles was named the #1 city for families in 2011, and cities that are great for families are often also great for dogs. We see all the time in our work as St. Charles dog trainers, where we come across amazing families of all sizes that have adopted and cared for dogs.

Inviting a dog into your home is a great way to make life more fulfilling and make a family whole. But there is often a learning curve that dogs need in order to fit into the home lifestyle. In St. Charles, IL, when you need your dog to adapt to the home, call our Marc Goldberg and Patrick Farrell today at 224-407-2131.

Our Dog Training Services in St. Charles, IL

As professional and experienced dog trainers, our role is to work with both your dog AND you. Your connection with your dog, along with our gentle approach, is the method that works best for developing long lasing behavioral change.

For most people, the best choice is our pack leader program. Our pack leader program teaches you and your pet how to control most common behavioral challenges, such as:

  • Leash Tugging
  • Crate Training/Housebreaking
  • Food Stealing and More

This program can take place either at our property or right inside of your home in St. Charles, where we work with your dog on these behaviors while showing you what you need to do to continue their progress.

We also know that there are some issues that require a more intensive approach, such as if your dog is aggressive towards people or animals. We also know that not everyone is ready to start behavioral training on their own.

For those families, we offer boarding school programs. These different programs, which range from 1, 2, and 3 weeks, let you drop your dog off with us and let us handle the more in-depth work. Once the boarding time is over, you and your family come on the last day and we show you the techniques that will help your dog keep up with their progress.

What Behaviors Indicate Your Dog May Need Training?

Dogs are loving creatures who simply want to please you and fit into your family norms. Sometimes it’s hard to help them understand how to properly cooperate with all the house rules that they are otherwise not used to. Recognizing the fact that they need training is the first step to create a better family environment.

There are many household behaviors that dogs may need addressed in order to fit in comfortably with the family. Some common behaviors that we assist with include, but are not limited to:

  • Excessive Barking - It can be a huge disturbance to both your family and to your surroundings if your dog continuously barks. Lots of barking can also potentially incite other unwanted aggressive behavior that could cause more danger.
  • Failure to Follow Commands - One of the most important skills a dog should understand is listening to their name and following commands. We train dogs to listen for and understand their name, come when called, and respond properly.
  • Distracted Walking -Dogs need to learn to walk correctly on a leash for their safety and for yours. We can help your dog learn to walk next to you, heel on command, and maintain their composure when they’re around other dogs and people. 
  • Nipping or Biting - Nipping is a common behavior in young dogs. Though generally harmless, nipping and biting can be painful - especially to young children and other dogs. As the dog gets older, it can also become a more serious concern. Learning to train your dog out of these behaviors is important for keeping everyone safe and happy. 
  • Jumping - Excessive jumping can be a nuisance to others, as you don’t want your guests to feel attacked by your dog every time they visit. This over-excitement could also potentially lead to household damage and therefore should be addressed immediately.

As a dog owner, it is a good idea to consider what behaviors your need in your household. Chances are you’ll notice that your dog could use a bit of an improvement. Our St. Charles dog trainers Marc Goldberg and Patrick Farrell guarantee expert training, and you can feel confident trusting your dog to our experienced team. 

Our Programs - Pack Leader Program and Dog Boarding School

We have programs that vary depending on you and the needs of your dog. We want to make sure that you have the correct training to help integrate your dog with your family, and we’re here to discuss each program with you at any time. 

Our pack leader programs are designed to train both you and your dog on issues such as chewing on household furniture, responding to commands, proper potty training, and more. These programs include:

  • Pack Leader Program - 2 hour program that includes a slip lead leash and collar for $349
  • Puppy Pack Leader Program - 2 hour private lesson teaching your puppy basic rules for $349

If your dog has more serious behavioral issues that need to be addressed, such as aggression, anxiety, or depression - or if you’d like to trust us with training your pet first - we also offer alternative programs that may be more beneficial. Our dog boarding school programs send your dog to stay with us a short drive from St. Charles, and we train your dog first before sending it back.

Consider these boarding school programs like a bootcamp. They are designed to help your dog adapt to the needs of the household on our time, and then on the last day we train you to help your pet thrive at home. Our programs include:

  • Amazing Dog 7 Day Boarding School - Perfect for common household behaviors. 
  • Dream Dog 14 Day Boarding School - Best for more difficult training. 
  • Celebrity Rehab 21 Day Boarding School - Ideal for anxiety, aggression, and critical dog behavioral needs. 

Because we also board your dog, these are all great choices for those that are leaving for a while and need someone to watch and train their dog while away. 

Effective and Successful – St. Charles, IL Dog Training

Marc Goldberg has literally written the book on dog training, found in bookstores across the United States. With Patrick Farrell and his team, they are able to provide you with the best possible training in a way that is gentle and caring for your pet. For more information, or to get started, fill out the form on our website or give us a call at 1-224-407-2131.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I have more than one dog that needs training, is it possible to get a discount?

A: Yes! The first dog we train of yours is $349, but the dog after that is $249, and each additional dog is $149 for our pack leader programs.

Q: It’s hard for me to travel far distances because I don’t have a lot of time. What can I do?

A: No worries at all. We offer our programs to be done via online services such as Facetime, Skype, and Whatsapp for a discounted cost at a time that is convenient for you. We are also able to arrange having our trainers come to you, so that your dog can learn in the comforts of your own home.

Q: I’m not sure which boarding school program is best for my dog, how do I tell?

A: Our dog boarding schools range from 1, 2, or 3 weeks long. We can work with you and discuss your dog’s needs to determine what would be best. For more specific information, please call us today at 1-224-407-2131.

Calvin and Colleen Sheehan (Assoc. Producer - The Oprha Winfrey Show)
Marc Goldberg with Cesar Millan, "The Dog Whisperer"

Our Philosophy & Goals

Our philosophy is simple. Improve the life of both dog and family. All too often, unruly dogs do not fully enjoy life because their families constantly become upset and frustrated with them. This is difficult for both family and dog.
 
Our mission is simple. Make both dog and family happy.
 
What does is take to make your dog happy? He will thrive when you give him leadership and attention.


 
Making the family happy is a bit more complex.

Families typically want their dog to:

  • Come when called, every time, on or off leash
  • Walk nicely on a loose leash without pulling
  • Sit until released
  • Down until released

Families also want their dogs:

  • Not to jump on people
  • Not to charge through doors
  • Not to dig in the garden
  • Not to bark and chew  inappropriately
  • Not to climb on furniture you prefer they avoid
  • Not to sniff and eat off the table and counters.
  • Not to be wild and uncontrollable
  • Not to ignore you when you want their attention