The Positive Pup - Certified Dog Training Service - Chicago, IL

Member since Jan 2023

As an Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), I specialize in positive reinforcement techniques to enhance the bond between dogs and their humans. With a strong foundation in pet behavior modification and dog obedience training, I've been serving the pet community for over five years. Whether you're looking to master basic obedience or address more serious behavioral issues, my approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of your furry family members. As a Fear Free Certified Professional and an American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator, I ensure that every interaction is both safe and enjoyable for your pet.

In addition to my in-person sessions, I offer the flexibility of online consultations, enabling pet parents to address their concerns conveniently from home. My expertise extends to pets of all sizes, from under 20 lbs to those over 80 lbs, and I'm well-equipped with tools and techniques like clicker training, praise, and a variety of collars and harnesses. I am also American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, providing an extra layer of safety and peace of mind. Whether your dog needs training, your cats need a reliable caretaker, or you simply require a professional you can trust, I am dedicated to providing exceptional service within my travel radius.

I am passionate about creating a positive environment for both pets and their owners, as echoed by a satisfied client who shared, "Rachel has been her trainer, walker, and literally the only person we have ever left our dog (and two cats) with to go away. I can’t recommend her enough." If you're ready to transform your pet's behavior and enhance your relationship, I'm here to help. Let's get started on this rewarding journey together—book me through Petworks today!

  • Certified
  • Online Sessions

Pricing Packages

Starting Price
$ 125.00 Per 60 minutes

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Private Dog Training
  • K9 Training
  • Dog Behaviorist

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Barriers
  • Clicker
  • Front-clip Harness
  • Head Collar
  • 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 part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Dogs

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

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
  • Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
  • Fear Free Certified Professional

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Chicago, IL

What year did you begin serving pets?

2004

How did you hone your craft?

I started out as a dog walker in NYC in 2004. I shadowed other trainers mainly to learn how to handle my more challenging canine clients, but caught the dog training bug and 19 years later, here we are!

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

Catch your dog being good! Don’t wait for them to get up to shenanigans and then try to stop it, find those little moment when they’re being perfect little angels and reward them for it!

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

My job is to train humans to train dogs. I want every person I work with to feel empowered to continue the work of training their dog(s) on their own.

BASED IN: Chicago, IL
SERVICE AREA: Within 75 miles, including Chicago, IL

Distinction

CPDT-KA American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC) Fear Free Certified Professional Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT) American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Private Dog Training
  • K9 Training
  • Dog Behaviorist

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Barriers
  • Clicker
  • Front-clip Harness
  • Head Collar
  • 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 part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Dogs

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

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • American Red Cross Pet First Aid and CPR Certified
  • Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
  • Fear Free Certified Professional

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Chicago, IL

What year did you begin serving pets?

2004

How did you hone your craft?

I started out as a dog walker in NYC in 2004. I shadowed other trainers mainly to learn how to handle my more challenging canine clients, but caught the dog training bug and 19 years later, here we are!

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

Catch your dog being good! Don’t wait for them to get up to shenanigans and then try to stop it, find those little moment when they’re being perfect little angels and reward them for it!

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

My job is to train humans to train dogs. I want every person I work with to feel empowered to continue the work of training their dog(s) on their own.

🐶 About Rachel LaMere — Certified Dog Trainer in Chicago, Illinois


Rachel LaMere is a certified dog trainer serving Chicago and the surrounding Cook County area, including nearby communities such as Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Elgin, Waukegan, Cicero, Arlington Heights, Evanston, Schaumburg, Bolingbrook. 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, Rachel 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.


Rachel 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, Rachel 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

Each session is designed to be encouraging, easy to apply, and tailored to your daily routine.


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 Rachel LaMere, 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.


Rachel 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 Chicago, IL on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On PetWorks, you can explore Rachel’s profile, read real feedback from pet parents across Cook 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 Chicago and throughout Illinois, 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 Rachel 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 Chicago, IL? Many trainers on PetWorks, including Rachel, 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 Rachel’s profile, read verified reviews from local pet parents across Cook County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog today. Availability can vary week to week, so booking ahead is recommended.