This type of training is based on rewarding desired behaviors, making training fun for you and your dog and, more than anything, creating good canine manners in an easy and effective way. Gentle training helps to mold gentle family pets, while harsh training methods often bring out defensiveness and aggression in dogs (just as with people!).

The good news for dog owners in Chicago's Western Suburbs is that they have access to the same training methods (if not better!) that Oprah uses. Clixworld® Canine Services based in Geneva, IL utilizes reward-based training and is guided by veteran trainer Diane Chandler, CPDT-KA. Since 1993, Diane has trained thousands of family pets using gentle positive reinforcement methods. The company has now grown to 3 trainers and 4 training interns. All of the Clixworld® trainers are certified by the national Certification Council of Professional Trainers (www.ccpdt.org).

Diane and her staff give reward based training an extra boost. They utilize a sound signal (a clicking sound produced by either the mouth or a tiny hand held clicker) for the dogs which marks the instant that the dog performs the correct behavior. This is then followed by a positive reinforcement. This quick, concise information to the dog speeds up the learning and is very easy for owners to do. "Clicker training" is a learning tool. Once the dog is trained, the sound signal (click) is no longer needed; just as a child who has learned to ride a bicycle no longer needs the training wheels.

Located just west of Randall Rd. in Geneva IL, the Clixworld® dog training school offers training in a comfortable, relaxed environment. Two or more staff members are present to teach owners and their dogs in each class (limit of six dogs per class). There are classes offered for baby puppies (8-18 weeks old), Good Manners (for dogs of any age) and an advanced course. Private lessons at the school or at client's homes are also available.

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