
I can assist with house training, crate training, leash walking, leash reactivity, multi-dog household relationships, resource guarding, stranger danger, and puppies gone wild situations.
In 1996 I found a homeless Rottweiler mix who became my pet. I struggled to figure this dog out. I had no idea how to effectively communicate with a dog or how to address her insecurity, reactivity, or aggression towards dogs and people. After attending a few traditional force-based classes and seeking help from trainers with the same methods, I was relieved to discover reward-based training. Obviously, life is not all positive, but I do my best to teach my animals using primarily positive reinforcement methods. I regularly attend workshops and seminars given by experts in dog training and behavior. I try to stay current on the most humane and effective strategies. I love the art, science, and magic of good animal training. It has become a lifetime practice.
I founded, owned and operated a dog-walking, boarding, and cat care business in the mid 1990’s. I also worked part-time at a local dog daycare facility during this time. After completing my School of Dog Training apprenticeship at the Anti-Cruelty Society, I became one of their senior instructors, teaching classes for ten years at the shelter. I have fostered dogs for the Anti-Cruelty Society, Chicago Canine Rescue, Chicagoland Shepherd Rescue, Illinois Doberman Rescue, and Simply Shepherds Rescue. I have conducted behavior evaluations at Chicago Animal Care & Control for Safe Humane Chicago and was one of Safe Humane's Community Training Partners. I received approval from the Illinois Department of Agriculture as a Humane Investigator in 2016 and 2017. In 2020 I graduated from the three-month Explosive Detection Canine handler school at JBSA Lackland. My current schedule includes working as an EDC handler.
Working with horses has influenced my dog training, just as my dog training has influenced how I work with horses. I bought my first horse in 2009. I adopted my second horse in 2019. The method for working with both species is based on trust, understanding, clarity, repetition, and patience. In addition to dogs and horses, I occasionally foster cats and have participated in TNR programs in Chicago, IL, and San Antonio, TX. My current crew consists of two German Shepherd Dogs, an American Eskimo Dog, a Siberian Husky, a German Shorthair pointer, and two Quarterhorses.
Megan and Jennifer started Capricorn Dog Training, LLC in 2012. After working magic with many Chicago dogs and their owners, Megan relocated to St. Louis in 2021. She currently does virtual lessons and monthly virtual reactivity classes. Contact Megan@capricorndog.com for booking.
I couldn’t be happier with Capricorn Dog Training. I have the most amazing dog because of all the help and training I’ve had with Jen. Seven years ago, Jen turned my crazy, little, beautiful girl into the dog that people want theirs to be like. Stella is my first dog. Jen taught her to act like a dog that was owned by a professional, which I’m not. Thank you so much, Jen. I would recommend you to anyone.
~ James S., Chicago
Jennifer from Capricorn has helped my rescue dogs settle into a family dynamic together. Both pointy-eared dogs came from different parts of Chicago, with very different personalities and very different needs. Jennifer helped us figure out what that meant and more importantly, how to live together as a happy pack. I would recommend her expertise to anyone in need of a better understanding of their connection to their dogs and vice versa. ~ Adriane Z., Ann Arbor
Wow! Jennifer is amazing! I rescued a puppy in March of 2021, and a good friend recommended Jennifer at Capricorn. I have been so happy with my results. She is a master at her craft. With Jennifer’s guidance, support and expertise, I feel confident in my daily training of Teddy. He has evolved into an amazing family member!
~ Mary G., Chicago
For puppies up to 6 months.
This class is scheduled as needed. Email if interested.
For youngsters 6 to 12 months.
This class is scheduled as needed. Email if interested.
Friday, April 14, 21, 28th.
7 to 8 pm
For dogs of any age who are reactive on leash.
*This class requires a private in home consult prior to registration.
A 75 to 90 minute in-home meet and greet with you and your dog. We will discuss what behaviors you would like to address, develop a basic training plan, and start working.
The second and subsequent lessons are 60 minutes and layered on top of the original training plan. I like to keep things fluid and adapt according to what the dog and owner need. I do offer a discounted rate after our third meeting.
If you have a dog behavior emergency and need advice ASAP, you can schedule a 30-minute call. Phone consultations must be pre-paid via Zelle.
Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question.
Zelle and cash are the only two forms of payment I accept at this time.
Due to traffic and travel times, my current service area is limited to the north side of Chicago. This may change at some point.
Training takes a lifetime. I will teach you how to teach your dog and improve your relationship. Sometimes one lesson is all that it takes to put you on track. Sometimes, more than one lesson is needed.
Send a gift card to friends and family.
Jennifer@capricorndog.com to purchase.
**Gift cards are good for one year after the date of purchase. Non refundable.
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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