the art and science of
Dog Training
The Key to a Better Pet is a Better Owner.
No matter what behavioral issues may be present, a deeply enriching and rewarding relationship can be achieved by building a solid foundation of trust and communication.
A Better Pet Dog Training will equip you with the knowledge, skills and tools to help your dog overcome obstacles and be successful in all situations. Leaving you free to fulfill perfectly your role in their life, and he to fulfill perfectly their role in yours.
Expectations. Understanding. Communication. Trust.
Are your expectations for your dog clear, reasonable and realistic? Do you understand how your dog is experiencing the world, how he thinks and what factors influence his behavior?
Are you able to communicate to your dog and understand what your dog is communicating to you? Does your dog trust you implicitly? Do you trust your dog to be reliable in all situations?
Do you know how to incentivize and reward your dog so that he willingly embraces the behaviors you desire?
Our Dog Training Process

Reward Based
Training
At ABP we are committed to reward-based training techniques. We selectively use management tools such as harnesses, martingale collars, euro leashes, and Har-Vest (our proprietary therapy/service dog vest for dogs). However we never use, nor do we condone, the use of aversive tools/techniques such as choke collars, e-collars, prong collars, alpha rolls or other methods intended to scare, hurt or otherwise intimidate the dog into submission.
Train the Human
To Train the Dog
We advocate a high level of involvement from the dog owner in the training process. We believe that training the dog, without educating the owner on the theory and technique of training, will fail to deliver sustainable long-term results. Additionally, the process of training, in and of itself, is a powerful tool for building trust and intimacy and (if done right) will have a significant positive effect on the quality of the relationship.


The Science &
The Art
ABP training is grounded in the premise that a good trainer masters both the science and the art of dog training. We specialize in teaching both. The ABP proprietary methodology, “The Six Pillars of Dog Training Wisdom”, provides a solid grounding in the science: canine cognition and behavior; training concepts and techniques; what constitutes desirable and undesirable behaviors; and building your ethological vocabulary. To master the art, all clients work closely together with Rachel to emulate her skills and impeccable gift for timing, as honed through 30+ years of practice and experience. ABP training programs are one-on-one, giving students opportunity to observe and practice as Rachel generously shares her wealth of knowledge.
Why Choose a Better Pet

Rachel has over 30 years experience working with dogs.

A Better Pet LLC has 21+ years of continued business operation in northeast Ohio.

Rachel holds a Masters in Social Work, has extensive clinical work experience and 30+ years of dog training experience.

The ABP proprietary methodology, “The Six Pillars of Dog Training Wisdom”, serves as introductory material to training programs.

Every ABP client engagement starts with a detailed assessment to determine the client’s concerns and objectives regarding their dog.

Rachel forges long-term relationships with her clients and in many cases is training their second or third generation dogs.