Family K9

Group classes are held weekly at Darien Park District and focus on socialization and focus training with distractions. Private sessions are customized to individual needs and conducted in the client’s home or appropriate training locations. Programs include preparation for AKC STAR Puppy and CGC certifications, as well as therapy dog evaluation readiness. Training is structured around positive reinforcement to build reliability through confidence.

Pricing Summary

Pricing details are not listed on the website. Registration for group classes is handled through the Darien, Westmont, and Clarendon Hills Park Districts. Private session pricing requires contacting the trainer directly via the contact form.

Family K9 is a professional dog training business owned by Liz Huskey, a Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT) with over 20 years of experience working with thousands of dogs of all breeds and temperaments. The business specializes in canine obedience and behavior modification using positive-based techniques to build strong handler-dog relationships, with a focus on family pets. Training avoids harsh corrections, electronic collars, choke chains, and prong collars, emphasizing confidence-building and enjoyment for both dog and owner. Group classes are held at Darien Park District and are designed to improve socialization and focus amid distractions. Private sessions are available in the client’s home or other suitable locations, tailored to individual needs. Liz also prepares dogs for AKC STAR Puppy and CGC certifications and is a TDI Therapy Dog Evaluator. Her own dogs, Otis (a registered therapy dog) and Rachel (a puppy mill rescue), are used to demonstrate training techniques.

Liz is a Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) and serves as a Mentor Trainer for students at Animal Behavior College. She stays current through ongoing education and seminars. The business aims to help dogs find and keep loving, lifelong homes through proper training.

Services include group classes, private in-home sessions, and therapy dog preparation. No other pet services like grooming, boarding, or walking are mentioned.

Accomplishments

Liz Huskey is a Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT) through Animal Behavior College and a Professional Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT). She has over 20 years of experience training dogs and is a Mentor Trainer for Animal Behavior College students. She has evaluated dogs for TDI Therapy Dog certification and has prepared thousands of dogs for AKC STAR Puppy and CGC programs.

How to Get Started!

For group classes, register through Darien, Westmont, or Clarendon Hills Park Districts. For private sessions, submit a request via the Contact page, including your dog’s name, breed, gender, age, and any specific behavior concerns. The trainer will respond to schedule a session.