Drama Dog Training LLC

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About

My approach to training is to first understand how the dog sees a situation so I can communicate on her level, rather than being a "drill sergeant." Dogs are intelligent animals, but don't always think the same way humans do, and they learn faster when the trainer works within their life-view. I get to meet so many wonderful dogs and their owners. Each dog is an individual, even within a breed! It's challenging to find a way to connect with each dog so they love training.

Overview

Hired 325 times

1 employee

16 years in business

Business hours

SunClosedMon8:00 am - 7:00 pm

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Top Pro status

Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.

2017

2016

Services offered

Type of animal

Cat

Horse

Bird

Pig

Service type

Evaluate needs

Address nuisance behaviors

Address fears or anxieties

Teach basic commands

Location of training

At customers' home

At my facility

Reviews

Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.

Great 4.8

121 reviews

5

88%

4

7%

3

1%

2

2%

1

2%

Read reviews that mention:

Rachel K.

Aug 20, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Dog Training

Kelly G.

Sep 19, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mary is wonderful. She has helped me to learn how to train my dog. Encourages questions and makes sure that I understand everything. She has helped me so much with training my dog. So thankful to have found her. Highly recommended.

Dog Training

Jill s.

Aug 27, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mary is a fantastic trainer. It is clear she has such incredible knowledge about dogs (any breed) and can teach the skills necessary for better behaved pets. She is also very thorough in sending notes, feedback, "homework," etc. If you are committed to doing the work at home, Mary will be a great asset to you! I am so grateful for what I've learned in becoming a better pet owner, understanding what works and why. Mary is also very affordable. We paid way too much for training a couple of years ago and it wasn't nearly as comprehensive or thorough.

Dog Training

Jeanie O.

Feb 6, 2016

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Hired on Thumbtack

Mary taught me how to distract my dog from potentially aggressive behavior, use positive reinforcement, and comply with verbal as well as hand signals. Her explanations of "dog thinking" helped me understand my dog better. She is great!!

Dog Training

Andrea K.

Jan 14, 2017

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Hired on Thumbtack

Service was scheduled promptly at our home. She was very helpful with explaining our dog's behavior. After the training session, she provided written feedback and homework. We are looking forward to next week!

Dog Training

FAQs

How did you get started doing this type of work?
I've always loved dogs and been good with them. 11 years ago when I got my GSD-mix, Kita, neighbors and friends invariably commented on how well-behaved and well-trained she was and started asking for advice with their own dogs. So, I got some formal training and started volunteering at local shelters even before I started Drama Dog Training!
What types of customers have you worked with?
I'm most often called in to help the family dog learn manners. Though the dog may know basic commands, she might not always do them on cue. She may be rowdy, mouthy and jumping on guests. Some dogs may get too excited around other dogs and/or not walk nicely on leash. I find using the No Free Lunch philosophy combined with marker training works wonders!
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
The owner of a Pitbull mix wasn't able to walk him because he reacted to EVERYTHING on walks -- people, dogs, squirrels... He wasn't aggressive, but super-charged with energy outside. Inside he was pretty much a couch-potato. That told me the outside distractions were probably triggering adrenaline rushes, and he just let it all hang out because he didn't know any better way to behave. So, we laid some groundwork with obedience cues like FOCUS, SIT, STAND and DOWN, along with teaching the whole family to be leaders using the NO FREE LUNCH method. At the same time, we worked for three weeks to get him used to a Gentle Leader head-collar. Not just used to wearing it and getting it fitted correctly (which are VERY important) but also teaching him to equate the GL with FUN and GOOD THINGS like play and chicken. The very first time we took him out on a walk wearing the GL, he walked right by a neighbor he'd reacted to the day before. He was interested in my dog when I brought her out, but remained under control and was able to listen to his owner and obey commands. A week later, she emailed me to say that she felt like she had a brand new dog, and they BOTH were enjoying daily walks!