Personal Family Dog Trainer
Service area: Serves the Quad Cities area and surrounding Midwest regions, with expanded reach through online programs.
Service Overview
Types of Dog Training
- Family Dog
- Behavior Modification
Specialty Focus Areas
- Puppy Training
- Leash Pulling
- Reactivity / Aggression
- Jumping on People
- Barking Excessively
- Separation Anxiety
- Biting / Nipping
- Potty Training
- Fearfulness
- Recall
Training Formats Offered
- Private Lessons
- Private Facility
- Board and Train
- Video Calls
Program Formats
- Sessions Package
- Ongoing Weekly
- Intensive Program
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)
Dog Training Methodology
Methods:
- ✓ Balanced Training
Equipment:
- ✓ Clickers
- ✓ Food Rewards
- ✓ Harnesses
- ✓ Flat Collars
Programs are organized into three main tracks: The Ultimate Puppy (for puppies 0-1 year), Companion Dog (basic manners and household behavior), and Family Dog (advanced public behavior and emotional control). Each track offers private sessions, board and train, and online options. Behavioral Help is available for complex issues like fear, aggression, and reactivity. A La Carte Courses and Specialized Programs address specific needs. All programs emphasize customized, step-by-step training with ongoing support.
Pricing & Policies
Pricing Summary
Pricing is not explicitly listed on the website; programs are structured as packages (e.g., 6-week courses, board and train) with customized pricing based on individual needs and program type. Clients are encouraged to contact for details.
Policies
No specific cancellation or rescheduling policies are stated on the website.
Testimonials
Kara did an amazing job helping us train our miniature schnauzer. Minnie just completed the puppy class learning to sit, lay down, walk by our side, touch, and stay. Kara also gave us potty training tips that were successful. Kara really understands dogs and how to train them and with positivity and respect.
– Anonymous
Best dog trainer around. Couple years ago, they Took my 7yr old hound, and taught him basic obedience. He still knows all his training and is a great dog. Staff was welcoming and friendly. Just took my rottweiler to them, and the owner personally spent time training and teaching my dog, and me. Now, my 140lb rottweiler, listens to my 7yr old little girl. Hands down best trainer in the Midwest.
– Anonymous
We rescued our pitbull named Murphy in May 2020… Kara was a true blessing. She explained what we were doing step by step. Kara has extreme patience and has a calm presence about her. She is always available to help via phone, Zoom or in person. We highly recommend her.
– Anonymous
About the Trainer
Personal Family Dog Trainer is a dog training business founded in 2011 and based in Viola, IL, serving the Quad Cities area and beyond. They offer customized training programs for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and training levels, from first-time owners to experienced handlers. Their services include private lessons, board and train programs, and online training options for puppies, companion dogs, and family dogs, with specialized behavioral help for issues like fearfulness, reactivity, and aggression. They emphasize balanced training methods, building solid foundations through positive reinforcement and practical life skills, and provide ongoing support to clients. Their facility-based training includes a dedicated on-site building, and they also offer in-person and virtual sessions to accommodate busy schedules. They work with all dog types and never turn away clients based on breed or size.
The business is led by Kara Hollar, who has over 30 years of combined experience training dogs and working with their owners. They pride themselves on exceeding client expectations by teaching dogs to make good choices in everyday situations and empowering owners with problem-solving skills. Their programs are designed to be flexible, fun, and effective, with a focus on long-term results and emotional control for dogs in home and public settings.
Accomplishments
Founded in 2011, expanded to a dedicated facility in 2019, and has trained hundreds of dogs across all breeds and sizes. Offers internship programs and online training, demonstrating innovation in the field. Owner Kara Hollar has over 30 years of combined experience in dog training and human education.
How to Get Started!
Prospective clients are encouraged to contact the trainer directly to discuss their needs, after which a customized program is designed. No free consultation is offered, but initial contact leads to personalized program planning.
Contact Information
Availability
- Weekdays
- Weekends
- Morning
- Afternoon
- Evening
Hours
Monday: 9am-8pm
Tuesday: 9am-8pm
Wednesday: 9am-8pm
Thursday: 9am-8pm
Friday: 9am-8pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
Languages
- English
Other Services Offered
- Pet boarding service
Listing Tools for Trainers
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