FAQs
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I tend to ask a lot of questions when working with a new student to better understand their needs, challenges, and goals for training. We work together to develop a plan tailored to their individual challenges and preferred learning styles. We also assess approximately how many training sessions it may take to reach their training goals.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). I am one of 3 Certified Professionals in Lake County, IN and 1 of 40 in the entire state of Indiana. The CCPDT is unique because it is the only independent certifying body of its kind. I am also an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Evaluator as well as a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I started dog training because I adopted the most rambunctious, difficult, troubled, reactive dog on the planet. He was so cute, sweet, and loving! He also destroyed items in my home, bit another dog, and eventually became incredibly reactive and anxious. Everything was wrong with this dog and he has afforded me the opportunity to work with many excellent trainers and behavioral consultants. We worked with a trainer who used force when my dog was first adopted. This trainer literally strung up my 6 month old puppy for wanting to play with another dog. Our time with this trainer was short. We met another trainer inside a pet store and she was supportive and introduced me to positive reinforcement based dog training. She acted as my first mentor and encouraged me to pursue becoming a dog trainer. Next, I worked with a well-known behavioral consultant to specifically address my dog's reactivity issues. During this time I was hired at a local pet store to teach group and private classes. With the support of the behavioral consultant and the training supervisor at my store, I worked hard to earn my CPDT-KA. I am now proud to own and operate Andrea Kutzko Dog Training.