Positive Partnership Private Dog Training - Evanston, IL

Member since Feb 2020

Jennifer Hunter is a dedicated and certified professional dog trainer with over two decades of experience in the pet care industry. Based in Northeastern Chicago, Evanston, and the North Shore suburbs, she specializes in fostering positive partnerships between dogs and their owners. As a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), Jennifer employs science-based, compassionate training methods to strengthen the bond between pets and their human companions. Her journey began with running a successful dog walking and pet sitting business, which naturally evolved into a passion for training. Jennifer's approach centers on teamwork, ensuring that both dogs and their guardians are engaged and having fun during each session.

Jennifer offers personalized training solutions tailored to the unique needs of dogs of all sizes, from those under 20 lbs to those over 80 lbs. Her expertise encompasses a wide array of tools and techniques, including clicker training, positive reinforcement with treats and toys, and the use of specialized equipment like martingale collars and harnesses. With her mobile services, Jennifer brings her training sessions directly to clients' homes, making it convenient and accessible. She also offers online sessions, providing flexibility for pet parents who prefer virtual guidance. Consistently updating her skills through workshops, seminars, and the latest scientific research, Jennifer ensures that her clients benefit from cutting-edge, force-free training methods.

Jennifer's ultimate goal is to teach clients how to motivate their dogs to exhibit desired behaviors in the clearest and kindest ways possible. Her advice to pet parents is simple yet profound: be kind and patient, as animals learn best when they feel safe and free from anxiety. Jennifer is not just a trainer but an avid cheerleader for both dogs and their human guardians, making every training session a joyous occasion. Ready to transform your relationship with your furry friend? Book through Petworks today!

  • Certified
  • Insured
  • Online Sessions
  • Mobile Services

Pricing Packages

Starting Price
$ 100.00 Per Session

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • K9 Training

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Barriers
  • Clicker
  • Front-clip Harness
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Muzzle
  • Praise/Affection
  • Toys
  • Treats

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Pet Behavior Modification

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Proud member of...

  • Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Northeastern Chicago, Evanston, & North Shore suburbs

What year did you begin serving pets?

2000

How did you hone your craft?

I am continuously honing my skills as a trainer-by attending workshops & seminars, & reading about the latest scientific research & force free training methods.

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Be kind & patient with your pet. Animals-just like humans-learn best when they feel safe & free from anxiety.

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I strive to make training fun for both the dogs & their human guardians-& am an avid cheerleader for both!

jennifer hunter

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BASED IN: Evanston, IL
SERVICE AREA: Within 100 miles, including Northeastern Chicago, Evanston, & North Shore suburbs

Distinction

Association of Professioanal Dog Trainers (APDT) CPDT-KA

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • K9 Training

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Barriers
  • Clicker
  • Front-clip Harness
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Muzzle
  • Praise/Affection
  • Toys
  • Treats

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Pet Behavior Modification

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Proud member of...

  • Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Northeastern Chicago, Evanston, & North Shore suburbs

What year did you begin serving pets?

2000

How did you hone your craft?

I am continuously honing my skills as a trainer-by attending workshops & seminars, & reading about the latest scientific research & force free training methods.

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Be kind & patient with your pet. Animals-just like humans-learn best when they feel safe & free from anxiety.

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I strive to make training fun for both the dogs & their human guardians-& am an avid cheerleader for both!

🐶 Certified Dog Trainers in Evanston, Illinois


Pet parents in Evanston and the surrounding Cook County area, including nearby communities such as Chicago, Skokie, Des Plaines, Cicero, Arlington Heights, Oak Park, Berwyn, Park Ridge, Mount Prospect, Glenview, often look for a certified dog trainer who can help a dog and their people build a calm, trusting relationship. Trainers like Jennifer Hunter focus on positive, science-based methods that fit real life at home and in public. Whether the goal is leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or a well-mannered companion, a good trainer shapes each session around the dog’s personality, history, and learning style, so progress feels natural and sustainable.


❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.


Certified dog trainers work with you as the owner, not only with the dog. They help you read behavior, build clear communication, and set routines that hold up at home and in public. A trainer like Jennifer is a coach for both of you.


✅ Training Support for Real-Life Challenges


From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, certified dog trainers in Evanston commonly help 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


Sessions should feel encouraging, practical, and easy to carry into your daily routine. The services listed on this profile show what Jennifer offers.


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 Jennifer Hunter is one way to keep training grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about credentials, and confirming them on the profile, is one of the best ways to make a confident choice.


⭐ Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks


Booking through PetWorks gives you more than a list of dog trainers in Evanston. It gives you a clearer way to choose.


A profile like Jennifer’s lets you review a local professional, read feedback from other pet parents, and book securely through a trusted platform. Many trainers on PetWorks use force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents often look for that supportive, judgment-free approach when they decide who to hire.


🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Evanston, IL on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On this page you can explore Jennifer’s profile, read feedback from pet parents across Cook County, and either start a booking with "Book Now" or begin a conversation with "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 improve with consistent, professional guidance, and many pet parents notice meaningful progress within a few sessions.


In Evanston and throughout Illinois, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers often rises in spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit ahead can help you get a schedule that works.


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 the services on this profile and choose the option that matches your goals.


All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, with a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with your trainer.


❓ 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 issues like reactivity or anxiety may take ongoing training and consistency at home.


Do dog trainers offer in-home sessions in Evanston, IL? Many trainers on PetWorks offer in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services on Jennifer’s profile, or use Get Custom Quote, to confirm what is available.


Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective for reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. A certified professional helps keep that progress safe and lasting.


🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog


Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness, and in your peace of mind.


Explore Jennifer’s profile, read reviews from pet parents across Cook County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog. Availability for trainers in Evanston can change week to week, so booking ahead is a good idea.