Canine Solutions

Canine Solutions’ primary program is a 2-week board and train intensive program that includes daily training in heel, sit, down, stay, come, “spot,” and “leave-it,” along with distraction work and behavior modification for issues like jumping, leash reactivity, and resource guarding. Each program is customized based on the dog’s breed, personality, and owner goals. After the program, owners receive a hands-on go-home lesson to learn how to reinforce training. Ongoing support and refresher sessions are available to maintain progress. In-home behavior modification sessions are also offered for targeted issues like food aggression or anxiety.

Pricing Summary

Canine Solutions offers a 2-week board and train program priced at $1,200, which includes training in basic commands, distraction work, and behavior modification. A go-home lesson is provided at pickup to teach owners how to maintain progress. Pricing for other services such as in-home visits or extended training is not listed but can be obtained through direct consultation.

Canine Solutions, owned by Dawn Schertz, is a professional dog training business based in Central Illinois that offers personalized obedience and behavior modification training for dogs of all ages and breeds. Dawn specializes in board & train programs, providing intensive, one-on-one training tailored to each dog’s unique personality, past experiences, and the owner’s goals. Her balanced approach combines positive reinforcement with necessary corrections to build trust, communication, and lasting behavior change. In addition to board and train services, she offers in-person follow-up lessons and ongoing support to ensure long-term success. Dawn is also an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and provides training for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, with a strong focus on leash reactivity, jumping, separation anxiety, food guarding, and recall. Her clients appreciate her compassionate, hands-on style and the dramatic improvements seen in their dogs’ behavior and family integration.

Dawn’s training is not just about commands—it’s about building a bond between dog and owner. She educates owners on how to lead with fairness and consistency, helping them understand their dog’s needs and communicate effectively. Her programs are designed to eliminate anxiety-driven behaviors and empower owners with the tools to maintain progress at home. Many clients report life-changing results, from dogs who no longer pull on leash or bark excessively to those who overcome fear and aggression.

Canine Solutions also offers behavior modification for complex issues like resource guarding, biting, and reactivity, often using in-home visits to address triggers in the dog’s natural environment. Dawn’s dedication extends beyond training sessions—she regularly checks in with clients and even visits dogs she has trained to ensure continued success.

Accomplishments

Dawn Schertz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer who graduated from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers and completed the Master Trainer Course. She is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and the National K-9 Dog Trainers Association. Dawn is also an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and has been training dogs since 2004. She has been recommended by veterinarians and other professionals in the field, and her clients consistently report transformative results in their dogs’ behavior.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Dawn directly to discuss their dog’s needs and schedule an initial evaluation. Training programs are customized after an assessment of the dog’s behavior, history, and owner goals. The 2-week board and train program requires advance booking, as spots are limited and often fully booked throughout the year.