Trust between owner and dog is everything.
Positive, science-based dog training that builds real understanding. No shouting. No dominance games. Just results you can see — and a dog who genuinely wants to listen.
Relationship First
Your bond with your dog is the foundation. Every technique we teach strengthens that connection rather than undermining it with fear or force.
Positive Methods
We use verbal markers and rewards to build confident, willing learners. No punishment, no intimidation — just clear communication and real motivation.
Personalized Goals
You define what a "good dog" looks like. We don't teach a one-size-fits-all checklist — we help you shape the companion you actually want.
Jane Masterson, Ph.D.
Jane understands the canine mind with rare depth and sensitivity. With a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology and decades of hands-on experience, she has helped hundreds of Hyde Park dogs and owners build trusting, joyful partnerships. She is a certified evaluator for the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Trick Titles, and STAR Puppy programs.
Her approach is grounded in behavioral science, delivered with warmth, and tailored to each dog-owner pair. Whether you're starting with a new puppy or working through a challenging behavior, Jane meets you where you are.
Her home life is enriched by two dogs, some cats, and a few birds. She also leads nature walks at Jackson Park.
Mark the Moment
A verbal "yes" at the exact instant your dog does something right — no guessing, no delays. Clear information builds confident learners.
Reward What Works
Every marker is backed by a reward your dog actually cares about. We help you discover what motivates your individual dog—it's not always a treat. As training progresses, food rewards are thoughtfully faded, replaced by clear, positive verbal reinforcement like a confident "yes."
Read the Body Language
Most "disobedience" is really miscommunication. Learning basic canine body language transforms your ability to train effectively and humanely.
Small Classes, Big Attention
We keep classes small so every owner gets real, hands-on coaching. We refine your timing, adjust your approach, and celebrate your progress.
Older Puppy Kindergarten
Socialization, basic commands, and puppy problem-solving. The most important class your puppy will ever attend.
Outdoor Manners + Reactive Dogs
Outdoor work, loose leash walking, distractions. Work towards your AKC Canine Good Citizen certification. Class will not meet if outdoor temperature is lower than 35° or higher than 80°, or if it is raining.
Pup Crawl
Real-world practice for barking, jumping, reactivity, and guest behavior—right where it matters most, with support for both sensitive and over-friendly dogs to build calm, polite responses.
Tracking
Let your dog do what they do best—sniff! This fun weekend activity taps into natural scenting instincts as dogs learn to search for and find hidden odors, similar to detection work (minus anything illicit).
Sometimes dogs need individual attention. We come to your home or neighborhood, on your schedule.
Private lessons can address basic obedience, leash pulling, anxiety, fearfulness, reactivity, or any challenge specific to your dog and environment.
| Single Hour-Long Lesson | $75 |
| 4-Lesson Package (4 hours) | $276 |
| Focused Package (2.5 hours) | $185 |
| Zoom Focused Package (2.5 hours) | $165 |
"Jane is easily the best, most knowledgeable trainer in Hyde Park. She understands the canine mind, and has a great manner with both dogs and people."— Blixa B., Yelp
"She totally transformed my puppy from a dog I had come to regard as stubborn and untrainable into a joyous and playful companion."— Client Testimonial
"The emphasis is on your relationship with your dog and what a beautiful thing! The more I studied, the more I changed completely in how I viewed dogs."— Client Testimonial
"Our dog loves Jane! The pup crawl class helped our shy dog like visitors a lot more. Tracking is fun for humans and dogs alike."— Client Testimonial