Adopting a Dog?

Start Out Right With ...
A Sound Beginning

Find Out How

 

Build a Better

relationship on both
ends of the leash.

Get Started

Learn How To

set the right tone
for your new dog

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Get the Training Package

Start off right with the complete "A Sound Beginning Training Package. Includes the book, a phone consultation, classes and more!

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Get Just the Book

This step-by-step book, including a CD of calming piano music, is designed to assure a stress-free transition for your new dog.

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Call for Help and Advice

Don’t wait until it’s too late – when issues arise a phone consultation with a professional trainer is just a phone call away.

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Welcome to A Sound Beginning Program

You’ve made a great choice in giving a dog a second chance at life. Now make a sound investment for a lifetime of happiness. This unique training program was created specifically for the newly adopted dog and focuses on LIFE SKILLS that center on SOCIALIZATION and SELF-CONTROL while teaching the foundation of problem solving by PREVENTION, MANAGEMENT and TRAINING. Start building a positive relationship with your adopted dog, gain his trust, and help him successfully adjust to his new home

The main goal of A Sound Beginning Program is to reduce and eliminate the stress that normally is part of the transition period from shelter/rescue to living in a home. It not only helps dogs to become adoptable, it ultimately keeps them from being returned. The result of taking the Path to Success classes is that a better relationship based on understanding both ends of the leash is established, which is the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

 

 

A Sound Beginning is full of sensible practical advice for introducing an adopted dog into your home. It is essential reading if you are adopting your first dog.

-- Temple Grandin, Author of Animals Make Us Human

Our Methods

We are 100% positive-reinforcement trainers that use only gentle methods based on proven science and how dogs learn best.

Research has shown that dogs are more likely to learn and repeat behaviors that result in consequences they desire and enjoy. Our methods get results without ever using force or fear.

 

Build an Unbreakable Bond

Our dedicated staff walk, talk and speak the language of dog with credentialed knowledge in dog behavior. The A Sound Beginning team includes a DVM with a speciality in veterinary behavior, Karen Pryor Academy (KPA) Certified trainers as well as trainers with Masters and Bachelors degrees in animal behavior and numerous other certifications in the world of dog training.

We are committed to helping you to understand exactly what your dog is telling you and to teaching you how to shape behavior and build a lifelong relationship with your dog that is based on mutual trust.

The bottom line is that training should be fun for both you and your dog. It should be a bonding experience. This relationship begins the moment you decide to bring a new dog into your home.

We will help you to avoid common mistakes and guide you through laying a great foundation where your new dog can thrive. Along the way you will learn how to speak dog language too and you will be amazed how quickly your dog will respond to our positive training methods.

We have expertise in working with shelter and rescue dogs and we are very experienced in working with dogs that are shy, nervous or fearful. But anyone who wants to build a great relationship with a new dog can benefit from our program.

We are not your average dog training program. We are about setting you and your new dog onto a path for success. All great friendships should start with a sound beginning that continues for a lifetime.

Dog Training 101 for Jake on the Job

Jake on the Job of Fox 32 news met with our A Sound Beginning trainers at the A.D.O.P.T. Pet Shelter in Naperville to learn how to train a dog using positive reinforcement methods.

Unbreaking the Galgo

This is a short film about our experiences working with the Galgos (Spanish Greyhounds). Our eyes were opened to their plight and the mass killing and abuse that is happening. Please help us to help the dedicated people who work every day to save these beautiful dogs by watching and sharing this film far and wide. The more awareness we can bring to this topic, the better chance we have at effecting change. There is no graphic content in this film - it is a small window into the aftermath of mass breeding and dumping of dogs and a portrayal of resiliency and our hope for the future of the Galgo..

Soothing Music to Help Shelter Dogs

The Daily Herald met with our founder, Julie Dorsey-Oskerka to discuss the ASB Program, the music and how we are helping shelter dogs through the pre and post-adoption phase.

No Pops, Shocks or Cans of Rocks!

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  • We are totally positive reinforcement trainers using humane, science-based methods.
  • We do not advocate nor use choke chains, prong collars, shock collars, force, fear, or intimidation.
  • We dedicate our training program to improving the relationship between dogs and their people.
  • References: American College of Veterinary Behaviorists www.dacvb.org

 

Friendly Support

We're here to help. Our experienced trainers guide you through every step of the process as you learn how to build a lifetime relationship with your dog based on trust and understanding. 

Quick Start Package

Would you like to know more about your dog? Would you like to prevent mistakes and create a positive training plan without being overwhelmed? Check out our Intro to Training package.

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In-Home Training

For those who prefer personalized training in the comfort of your home, we offer several options with one of our experienced behavioral trainers using only humane, science-based methods.

Modular Classes

Our classes are modular so that you can choose a location (throughout Chicagoloand) and time that best suits your schedule each week. View our calendar for upcoming sessions.