Business Details
21 Years
experience
Expert Dog Training & Grooming Services in Loves Park, IL
Dave's Doggie Den has been a trusted name in canine care since 2005, offering expert training, grooming, and daycare services. Founded by Dave, a seasoned dog trainer with decades of experience, the business combines professional expertise with a deep understanding of canine behavior. Our team specializes in obedience training, protection training, and personalized in-home sessions, ensuring dogs develop proper manners and owners gain confidence in handling.With certifications from the AKC Good Citizen Program and Walter Ward's Street Wise Competition, we emphasize patience, clear communication, and positive reinforcement. Our facility in Loves Park, IL, provides a welcoming environment for dogs and owners alike, focusing on building strong human-canine relationships through education and hands-on guidance.
Services
Basic Obedience
Advanced Obedience
Private Training
Protection Training
Daycare Services
Pet Grooming
Kennel Training
Behavioral Consultation
Group Classes
In-Home Sessions
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of combined experience in dog training and behavior.
- Our certified trainers use proven, humane training methodologies.
- Personalized in-home sessions tailored to your dog's specific needs.
- Comprehensive obedience and protection training programs for all skill levels.
- Proven success in resolving complex behavioral issues through patient instruction.
Associations and certifications
- AKC Good Citizen Trainer
- Walter Ward's Street Wise Competition
What people say
Friendly staff
Followed directions perfectly
Professional and personal service
Calm, patient teaching style
Perfect grooming results
Services
Basic Obedience
Six-week classes teaching essential commands like sit, stay, and come. Focuses on establishing pack order and addressing behavioral issues such as jumping or chewing. Includes hand signal instruction for effective communication. Ideal for puppies 12 weeks and older.
Protection Training
Advanced program teaching dogs to protect owners while maintaining controlled behavior. Emphasizes alertness and obedience without promoting aggression. Requires prior evaluation and concurrent advanced training enrollment. Builds confidence in both dog and owner.
Private Training
Customized in-home or facility-based training tailored to specific needs. Covers behavioral assessments, boundary setting, and relationship-building. Available as hourly sessions at $100 (in-store) or $165 (house calls) for Rockford area residents.
Daycare Services
Structured daytime care with socialization and exercise. Operates Monday-Friday 7am-5:30pm. Requires proof of vaccinations and appropriate leash use. Combines playtime with behavioral reinforcement for well-rounded pet development.
Pet Grooming
Professional grooming services including haircuts, bathing, and nail trimming. Specializes in breed-specific cuts and owner-requested styles. Testimonials highlight precision and attention to detail, particularly for breeds like Miniature Schnauzers.
People
Dave
Owner/Lead Trainer
Certified dog trainer with 30+ years of experience. Former Chicago Transit Authority K-9 handler. Competed in Chicagoland obedience competitions since 1988. Developed Dave's Doggie Den's training methodology emphasizing patience and positive reinforcement.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement and pack leadership techniques. Our certified trainers focus on clear communication without harsh corrections.
Do you offer in-home training sessions?
Yes, private house calls are available for $165 within Rockford, Loves Park, Machesney Park, and Cherry Valley areas.
What are your operating hours?
Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-5:30 PM. Saturday by appointment only. Closed Sundays.
What training classes are available?
Basic/Advanced Obedience, Protection Training, and Intermediate classes held weekly. Private sessions available anytime.
What certifications do your trainers hold?
Our lead trainer is certified by AKC Good Citizen Program and Walter Ward's Street Wise Competition.
Do you groom all dog breeds?
Yes, including breed-specific cuts. Testimonials highlight excellent results for Miniature Schnauzers and similar breeds.
