Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Jody Epstein

Dog trainer in St. Louis

https://www.NutzAboutMutz.com

Service areas:

St. Charles County, St. Louis City, remote sessions

I have a masters degree in behavior and am proud to be the only board certified applied animal behaviorist in the eastern half of Missouri. I also hold my Certified Behavior Consultant Canine and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (knowledge assessed) certifications, and I am a Fear Free Certified Professional dog trainer as well. I have been training professionally for 16 years. I served one year as the behavior manager for small humane society. I moved to Missouri in 2018 to take on the role of Head Training Instructor at the Academy of Pet Careers - the only full-time, hands-on positive reinforcement dog training trade school in the country that we know of. After earning my ACAAB in 2021, I shifted my focus back to seeing private clients so that I could help as many people struggling with behavior challenges in their homes as possible. It has been my pleasure to serve the greater St. Charles area these past two years.

Certifications:

ACAAB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP

Dog training services include

Aggressive dog training
Deaf dog training
Reactive dog training
In home training
Puppy training

More info about Jody Epstein's dog training:

I provide in-home and remote behavior services to address a variety of concerns including timid/fearful dogs, stranger danger, dog-directed reactivity, and resource guarding. I also offer basic skills and manners training.

Behavioral issue focus:

While my favorite dogs to work with are the timid/fearful dogs, the majority of my work is with dogs showing stranger-danger reactivity and dog-directed reactivity/leash reactivity. I also frequently work with resource guarding issues.

Dog training methods:

An initial consultation allows me to learn about the life, health, and behavior history of the dog. This also allows me to observe the dog directly. Using the information gathered during the consultation, I design a management plan to prevent the dog practicing the undesired behavior as well as a behavior and training plan to help the humans help their pups work through the behavior challenges and find a more comfortable life together. I use a variety of counter conditioning protocols to help the dog make new associations with those things that trigger their behavior outbursts. This results in a more confident and resilient dog. I do not utilize any tools or techniques that rely on fear or pain to suppress behaviors.

Why I became a dog trainer:

I struggled with some behavior challenges with my heart-dog, Cashew. When I couldn't find a professional who could help me without causing pain or fear in my beautiful dog, I dedicated my life to learning as much as I could about canine learning and behavior. I returned to graduate school to study the subject. I began training basic skills at a local big box pet store, and continued educating myself in behavior challenges. As my knowledge and skills grew, I began taking on behavior cases and my work has grown from there. My business name, Nutz About Mutz, is an homage to the dog who got me started on this career path.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

The joy on people's face when they see their dog making healthier/safer behavior choices. And the joy I see in the dog when they realize they don't have to be afraid.

My #1 dog training tip:

Every interaction is a training interaction. Meaning, every time we engage with a dog, we are telling that dog how to engage with us.

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Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

Jody Epstein

Certifications:

Dog training services include

More info about Jody Epstein's dog training:

Behavioral issue focus:

Dog training methods:

Why I became a dog trainer:

My favorite part of being a dog trainer:

My #1 dog training tip:

See The Best Dog Trainers In St. Louis

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David Adams

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