A Sound Beginning
Service area: Serves northern Illinois and greater Chicagoland area through A Sound Beginning Chicago; and within 20 miles of Englewood, Florida through their Southwest Florida affiliate.
Service Overview
Types of Dog Training
- Family Dog
- Behavior Modification
Specialty Focus Areas
- Basic Obedience
- Puppy Training
- Leash Pulling
- Reactivity / Aggression
- Separation Anxiety
- Fearfulness
- Resource Guarding
- Recall
Training Formats Offered
- Private Lessons
- Group Classes
- In-Home
- Video Calls
Program Formats
- One-Time Consultation
- Sessions Package
- Ongoing Weekly
Types of Dogs
- Small
- Medium
- Large
- Giant
- Herding
- Sporting
- Working
- Hounds
- Terriers
- Doodles
- Brachycephalic
Age of Dogs Trained
- Puppy (<1 year)
- Adolescent (1-2 years)
- Adult (2-8 years)
- Senior (8+ years)
Dog Training Methodology
Methods:
- ✓ Positive Reinforcement Only
Equipment:
- ✓ Clickers
- ✓ Food Rewards
- ✓ Harnesses
Offers free virtual Intro to Training classes (1-hour session + 30-minute Q&A), private in-home or virtual consultations via certified affiliates, and structured group classes available in-person and online. Programs focus on behavior modification, foundational obedience, and building trust between dogs and owners. Training is tailored to individual needs with ongoing support options.
Pricing & Policies
Pricing Summary
Pricing details are not listed on the main site; one-on-one training is provided through certified affiliates with separate websites and pricing structures. Group classes and the free Intro to Training class are available. A book and quick-start package are sold in their online store.
Testimonials
I had a session with Erica from A Sound Beginning a few days ago and already the difference in my dog is amazing. I had given up hope that my dog would ever be able to walk well on a leash and after only an hour session, I feel like I know what to do to get my dog where I want him to be. It will take time and consistency but I can already see the difference in my dog. I can also see myself setting up more sessions in the future to work on other skills. Very happy I worked with them and would recommend them, especially Erica!
– Anonymous
The entire staff at A Sound Beginning is top notch! I’ve been working with their trainers for years now and they’ve had such an incredible impact on our life. Living with a dog diagnosed with fear and anxiety issues is extremely challenging and can be very discouraging as well. But ASB provided the tools needed to work with my dog and the progress he’s made is so impressive. Would highly recommend them to anyone with a “problem” dog, and also everything from basic to advanced training.
– Anonymous
This is my go to behavioral training facility. The people are so nice, and they truly care about the people and dogs they work with. Can’t say enough good things about them.
– Anonymous
About the Trainer
A Sound Beginning is a dog training program founded on positive-reinforcement methods rooted in science and animal behavior expertise. The program was initiated by a book co-authored by Julie Dorsey-Oskerka, Patricia Rattray, and Rebecca Cann, and has evolved into a comprehensive training network offering group classes, one-on-one training, and support for rescues and shelters. All trainers use only humane, force-free techniques—no choke chains, prong collars, shock collars, or intimidation. They provide virtual and in-person options for dogs, cats, and birds, with services available through certified affiliates across northern Illinois and southwest Florida. Their mission is to strengthen the human-animal bond through mutual trust, respect, communication, and motivation. They also offer a free virtual Intro to Training class and an educational book for new dog owners to prevent behavioral issues from the start.
The program supports animal shelters and foster organizations with behavioral education resources and has been featured in media for initiatives like using soothing music to help shelter dogs. Their team includes certified trainers and veterinarians specializing in behavior modification, ensuring a science-based approach to training and behavior change.
They focus on building foundational skills for all dogs, from puppies to seniors, with specialties in reactivity, fearfulness, leash pulling, separation anxiety, and resource guarding. Their services are designed for families seeking long-term, positive relationships with their pets.
Accomplishments
Founded by authors of the book “Adopting a Dog? Start off right with… A Sound Beginning.” Program is endorsed by veterinary behaviorists and featured in media for shelter dog initiatives. Collaborates with animal rescue organizations and provides educational resources to shelters.
How to Get Started!
Begin with the free virtual Intro to Training class by registering through the Class Calendar. For private training, visit the 1-1 Training Options page to connect with a certified affiliate in your region for a consultation.
Contact Information
Availability
- Weekdays
- Weekends
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
Hours
9am-4pm
Certifications
- Credentialed
Associations
- Accredited
Languages
- English
Other Services Offered
- Pet supply store
- Pet trainer
Location
Winfield Rd, Winfield, IL 60190Listing Tools for Trainers
For A Sound Beginning Only
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