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Darrel’s Training Center

Lovington, Illinois

5/5· 72 Google reviews

About Darrel’s Training Center

With a deep understanding of canine behavior, we employ positive reinforcement and balanced training techniques, including simple pressure and release, to build trust and effective communication. Our motto, “Training that creates Trust,” encapsulates our philosophy, ensuring a harmonious and respectful companionship.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Crate training Customer-reported
  • House training
  • Leash training Customer-reported
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training

How training happens

  • Board and train
  • Owner coaching Customer-reported

Dog age

  • Puppies

Training level

  • Advanced training Customer-reported

Support between sessions

  • Photo updates Customer-reported

Training approach

  • Balanced training
  • Positive reinforcement

Additional services

  • Boarding

Other listed services

View 4 additional details
  • Dog Basic
  • Personalized Dog Training
  • Training Behavioral
  • Us Training

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Questions & answers

From Google

What people have asked about this business.

What’s the best way to house-train my puppy?

Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or waking up. Reward them immediately when they go in the right spot. Establish a routine, supervise them indoors, and use crate training to prevent accidents.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I stop my dog from chewing on things they shouldn’t?

Redirect your dog to appropriate chew toys whenever they start chewing on something they shouldn’t. Remove access to tempting items and ensure they’re getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Additionally, teach a “leave it” cue by showing them a tempting item, saying “leave it,” and rewarding them when they ignore it. Practice this regularly to reinforce the command.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I teach my dog to come when called?

Use a happy, enthusiastic tone when calling your dog. Start in a distraction-free area and reward them with treats or praise when they come. Gradually increase distractions and always make coming to you a positive experience.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What should I do if my dog shows aggression toward other dogs or people?

Stay calm and avoid punishment, which can worsen aggression. Use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to help them associate other dogs or people with positive experiences.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What’s the easiest way to teach basic commands like sit, stay, and leave it?

Use positive reinforcement: Sit: Hold a treat above their head and move it back slightly to encourage them to sit, then reward. Stay: Ask them to sit, hold your hand up, say “stay,” and reward after a few seconds. Gradually increase the time. Leave it: Place a treat on the floor, cover it, and say “leave it.” When they stop trying to grab it, reward them with a different treat.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What’s the best way to introduce my dog to new people or pets?

Introduce them in neutral environments and keep initial interactions short and positive. Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior. Supervise the introductions and gradually increase interaction time as your dog becomes comfortable.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from barking excessively?

Identify the trigger (e.g., strangers, boredom, or noise). Use consistent training like teaching the “quiet” command, rewarding silence, and redirecting their attention with toys or treats. Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Teach loose-leash walking by stopping or changing direction whenever your dog pulls. Reward them when the leash is slack. Use a proper harness or collar for better control, and practice in low-distraction environments first.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I teach my dog to stay off the furniture?

Use consistent commands like “off” and reward your dog when they comply. Provide a comfortable alternative, such as a dog bed, and redirect them there. Keep your dog on a leash during training to gently guide them away from the furniture and reinforce the behavior.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I reduce my dog’s separation anxiety?

Gradually get your dog used to being alone by leaving for short periods and slowly increasing the time. Provide engaging toys, such as puzzle feeders, and avoid dramatic goodbyes or greetings. Crate training and calming aids may also help.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from jumping on me?

Teach your dog to sit when greeting you and reward calm behavior. Maintain good posture, and when moving, step toward your dog rather than retreating. This helps discourage jumping while reinforcing polite behavior.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
5
out of 572 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • Crate training 14
  • Video updates 13
  • Potty training 7
  • Basic obedience 5
  • Command training 4
  • Tailored training 3
All 10 topics
  • Calm training 2
  • Confidence training 2
  • Loose leash walking 2
  • Separation anxiety training 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

73 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Connie Elder
5/5

Got a video on day 2 showing my new 70 pound Australian/German Shepherd mix walking on a loose leash. Darrel also helps owners learn how to continue the training. Would highly recommend for any issues your pet may have.

Mark Cieslinski
5/5

Easy to use techniques and he laid a great foundation to build on. Our puppy was crate & potty trained. 👍🏻. Highly recommend

Jakoby Hatten
5/5

Our bernedoodle got groomed here. He looks amazing! Fantastic customer service and very friendly. would reccomend to anyone for any kind of dog. Night and day difference after our appointment! More than fair pricing as well! Our pup barely wanted to leave when he was done. Thank you so much!God bless!

Joe Raicevich
5/5

Darrel provided training to my Bernese puppy for a few weeks and I am extremely happy with the results. I highly recommend!

Jamie Chandler
5/5
We sent our 8-month-old mini Bernedoodle to Darrel, and honestly, I can’t believe the difference! She had major separation anxiety, hated the crate, and was super awkward around others. Dropping her off for two weeks was tough, but when we visited halfway through, we could alread…Read full reviewClose full review

We sent our 8-month-old mini Bernedoodle to Darrel, and honestly, I can’t believe the difference! She had major separation anxiety, hated the crate, and was super awkward around others. Dropping her off for two weeks was tough, but when we visited halfway through, we could already see such a big change, plus Darrel gave us tips that really helped us to get ready for the change when she would come home. When we picked her up, the progress was incredible—she’s calmer, more confident, and the crate isn’t such a battle anymore. Darrel and his family are so caring, which made the whole process so much easier. He’s even been there for us afterward whenever we’ve had questions. My only regret? Not taking her to him sooner!

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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