Family Dog Training Services, LLC

Family Dog Training Services offers several programs. The Board & Train program provides detailed, customized training by Steven at their facility, with dogs staying indoors in climate-controlled housing and having access to fenced yards. This includes a 2-hour handling lesson for owners upon completion. Handling Lessons are private sessions, coaching owners on dog handling and training progression, available at their facility, a park, or the client’s home.

The Puppy Program is for puppies 4 months and younger, focusing on crate training, housebreaking, addressing mouthing and destruction, establishing routines, and beginner obedience. This program includes an evaluation to maximize the puppy’s potential. They also offer Basic Obedience for common commands with basic distractions, Advanced Obedience for higher distractions and off-leash training, and Behavior Modification for issues like reactivity, counter surfing, resource guarding, jumping, mouthing, excessive barking, and destruction. Additional services include Clicker Training, Electronic Containment System Training, and Remote Training Collar (E-Collar) training.

Policies

Calls are not accepted on Saturdays and Sundays. When leaving a message, clients are asked to include their name, contact information, and a brief message about their dog and training goals.

Family Dog Training Services, LLC is a dog training business owned and operated by Steven Jackson, with significant involvement from his wife, Christen, and their two sons, Blake and Blane. Steven, the owner and head trainer, has over 19 years of dog training experience and 18 years in Veterinary Medicine. He is a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College.

The business aims to help families have enjoyable, safe, and well-rounded family pets for life. They offer a variety of services including Board & Train programs, virtual consults, handling lessons, and a specialized puppy program. They also provide training for basic and advanced obedience, off-leash training, in-public training, and behavior modification.

Their training philosophy emphasizes building a solid bond and relationship with the dog, clear communication, and understanding the dog’s natural desires. Steven uses a motivational training approach, primarily positive reinforcement, but also believes in accountability and enforcing commands when necessary, adopting a “one size fits all” approach. The family’s own pack of dogs, along with other pets, often assist in training programs.

Steven also owns and operates Von der Treu German Shepherds, a small hobby kennel focusing on rare breedings or importing. He has lifelong experience with German Shepherds, participating in Schutzhund/IGP with his own dogs, and has a deep understanding of the breed’s versatility and needs.

Accomplishments

Steven Jackson is a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College, an internationally recognized school. He has over 19 years of dog training experience and 18 years of experience in Veterinary Medicine. Steven is a national-level competitor in Schutzhund/IGP, having earned 3rd Place at Regionals with the highest protection score and the highest Obedience score at Nationals with his dog, Eis. Eis is currently titled to an IGP3 and qualified for the 2024 GSDCA National Championship. Steven’s family, including his wife Christen and sons Blake and Blane, play significant roles in the business operations and dog care.

How to Get Started!

To get started, clients can call or text (804) 248-9950 or email familydogtrainingservices@yahoo.com. When contacting, clients should leave a message including their name, contact information, and a brief message with information on their dog and training goals.