Durham Kennels - Puppy and Dog Certified Private Trainer - Berea, KY
Durham Kennels is located on ten wooded acres in beautiful Berea, Kentucky, thirty miles from Lexington, Kentucky, just off I-75. It is owned and operated by dog trainer Jim Durham. Recommended by vets throughout Central Kentucky, Jim’s dog training expertise is drawn from over thirty years of professional experience.
A trusted service in Berea for over twenty years, Durham Kennels has created a warm and welcoming environment for you and your dog. Nestled on top of a hill with a gorgeous view, the kennel is surrounded by trees and flowers and is right next to Jim’s home, allowing him to give your pet the highest level of care and attention.
Whether you have just purchased a brand-new pup or have opened your heart to an adoptee from a local animal shelter, Jim will provide expert advice, helpful problem-solving, and consistent one-on-one guidance and support throughout the training process.
During your initial phone call, he will listen to you, assess your dog’s needs, and talk about your dog’s living environment, family members, goals, and any issues or challenges you may have. He will talk with you about what you can expect from basic obedience training and the critical role you will play in the success of the training as you and your dog learn and grow together.
For those looking for the optimum training experience, Jim is currently accepting reservations for his three-week in-kennel Train and Board Basic Obedience Program. This program is designed for dogs at least 18 weeks of age. Because only a few dogs are enrolled in this program per training period, Jim can maximize your dog’s potential quickly.
He will work with your dog daily to instill the basic obedience commands, offering playtime and exercise in addition to the training sessions. After the initial training period, you will pick up your dog and have the first in a series of follow-up classes. For six weeks, Jim will continue to work with you one on one, teaching you how to execute each of the commands your dog has learned properly. All family members in the household (adults and children 14 and up) are invited and encouraged to attend these classes.
In addition to the Train and Board program, Jim also offers a Puppy Program. Specifically designed for owners of new pups, Jim will carefully guide you through the critical first few weeks of pet ownership. Via phone consultations, he will offer valuable assistance, helping you to address typical puppy behaviors like chewing, nipping, and jumping up while providing helpful advice on everything from feeding to house-breaking. Please contact and book my private dog training and puppy training services on Petworks. Thank You.
- Licensed
- Certified
- Insured
- Background Checked
- Online Sessions
How do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
- Private Dog Training
- Puppy Trainer
What licensing do you have?
- Business License
On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Do you offer mobile services?
- Yes
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Berea, Kentucky and surrounding areas. I also offer virtual remote consultations on Petworks.
What year did you begin serving pets?
1994
jim durham
SERVICE AREA: Within 100 miles, including Berea, Kentucky and surrounding areas. I also offer virtual remote consultations on Petworks.
How do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
- Private Dog Training
- Puppy Trainer
What licensing do you have?
- Business License
On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Do you offer mobile services?
- Yes
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Berea, Kentucky and surrounding areas. I also offer virtual remote consultations on Petworks.
What year did you begin serving pets?
1994
🐶 About Jim Durham — Certified Dog Trainer in Berea, Kentucky
Jim Durham is a certified dog trainer serving Berea and the surrounding Madison County area, including nearby communities such as Richmond, Lexington, Nicholasville, Danville, Frankfort, Georgetown, Winchester, Somerset, Lawrenceburg, Harrodsburg. They specialize in helping dogs and their people build calm, trusting, and lasting relationships through positive, science-based training. Whether you're working through leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or simply want a well-mannered companion, Jim tailors each session to your dog’s personality, history, and learning style—so progress feels natural and sustainable, not forced.
❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.
Jim works closely with you as the owner, helping you understand your dog’s behavior, build clear communication, and create routines that lead to real-world success at home and in public.
✅ Training Support for Real-Life Challenges
From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, Jim provides practical, results-driven support with:
- Obedience and focus for home and public settings
- Leash training and more relaxed, enjoyable walks
- Reducing anxiety, fear, and reactivity
- Puppy and new dog foundations for long-term success
Recommended Certifications for Dog Trainers
When choosing a dog trainer, professional certifications are a strong indicator of expertise, experience, and commitment to ethical, science-based methods. Widely recognized credentials include the CPDT-KA or CPDT-KSA from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which demonstrate mastery of modern training techniques, canine behavior, and learning theory. The KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) highlights trainers skilled in positive reinforcement and clicker training, while the IAABC Certified Dog Trainer credential, recognized internationally, signals advanced knowledge in behavior modification and problem-solving. Membership or certification through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) further reflects ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards. Many trainers also pursue specialty certifications in areas such as aggression management, behavior modification, or puppy development to address specific challenges.
For pet parents, choosing a certified trainer like Jim Durham, ensures that your dog’s training is grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about a trainer’s credentials is one of the best ways to make a confident, informed choice.
⭐ Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks
Booking through PetWorks gives you more than access to a qualified trainer — it gives you confidence in your choice.
Jim is a verified professional who uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents value the supportive, judgment-free approach, along with the ability to read verified reviews and book securely through a trusted platform.
🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Berea, KY on PetWorks Works
Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On PetWorks, you can explore Jim’s profile, read real feedback from pet parents across Madison County, and either initiate a booking offer by clicking the "Book Now" button, or start with a conversation by clicking 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Send Message'.
Training works best when you begin at the right time. For puppies and newly adopted dogs, early training builds strong habits from the start. For older dogs, challenges like leash pulling, anxiety, or reactivity can absolutely improve with consistent, professional guidance — with many pet parents noticing meaningful progress within just a few sessions.
In Berea and throughout Kentucky, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers can increase during the spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit in advance can help you secure the schedule that works best for you.
Most dog training sessions across the U.S. typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and training type. On PetWorks, you can review available services and choose the option that aligns with your goals.
All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, giving you access to a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you’ll coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with Jim to get the most out of your sessions.
❓ Dog Training FAQs
How many dog training sessions will I need? Every dog is different, but many pet parents begin to see progress within 2–4 sessions. More complex behavior issues like reactivity or anxiety may require ongoing training and consistency at home.
Do you offer in-home dog training in Berea, KY? Many trainers on PetWorks, including Jim, offer flexible options such as in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services listed above or use Request Quote to confirm what works best for your situation.
Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective in addressing reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. Early guidance from a certified professional helps ensure safe, lasting progress.
🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog
Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness — and your peace of mind.
Explore Jim’s profile, read verified reviews from local pet parents across Madison County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog today. Availability can vary week to week, so booking ahead is recommended.