Business Details
22 Years
experience
K9 Nose Work Training & Dog Enrichment Activities in Kenosha
Loving Paws was founded in 2004 with a commitment to fostering positive relationships between dogs and their owners through force-free training methods. Our approach emphasizes reinforcing desired behaviors while redirecting unwanted ones, rooted in the philosophy that dogs thrive when treated with respect and understanding. With over two decades of combined experience, our team specializes in K9 Nose Work training, leveraging expertise from certifications through the National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW) and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers.We prioritize building trust and communication, offering classes, workshops, and community events like dog walks and hiking clubs to enrich both canine and human lives. Our dedication to continuous learning and ethical training practices has made us a trusted resource for dog owners in Kenosha and surrounding areas.
Services
K9 Nose Work Classes
Private Training Sessions
Dog Walks
Hiking Club
Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Certified instructors with 16+ years of combined experience in force-free training
- Specialized in NACSW-certified K9 Nose Work programs for all skill levels
- Community-focused events like dog walks and hiking clubs for ongoing engagement
- Proven track record of improving dog-owner relationships through positive reinforcement
- Comprehensive approach combining training, education, and canine enrichment
Associations and certifications
- NACSW
- APDT
Services
K9 Nose Work Classes
Our K9 Nose Work classes teach dogs to use their natural scenting abilities in a structured, engaging environment. Participants learn foundational skills through positive reinforcement techniques that build confidence and focus. These classes cater to dogs of all experience levels, from beginners to advanced competitors preparing for NACSW trials.
Private Training Sessions
Personalized training sessions address specific behavioral challenges and skill development goals. Our certified instructors create customized plans using force-free methods that strengthen communication between dogs and owners. Sessions focus on practical solutions for everyday situations while maintaining the dog's emotional well-being.
Dog Walks
Weekly group dog walks in the Kenosha area provide socialization opportunities and mental stimulation for participating dogs. These walks maintain training consistency while allowing dogs to explore safely in a controlled environment. Owners benefit from ongoing community connection and shared learning experiences.
Hiking Club
Specialized hiking events offer off-leash exploration in natural settings while reinforcing training principles. Participants develop trail etiquette and environmental awareness through guided outdoor adventures. The club emphasizes safe, enjoyable experiences that strengthen the human-canine bond in wilderness environments.
Workshops
Themed workshops provide intensive training on specific aspects of canine behavior and scent work. These sessions combine theoretical knowledge with practical application to address particular challenges or advance competition readiness. Participants receive expert guidance in a supportive group setting.
People
Laura Yurchak
Founder & Lead Instructor
Certified Professional Dog Trainer with 20+ years of experience in force-free methods. Developed expertise through NACSW certification, APDT credentials, and hands-on work since founding Loving Paws in 2004.
Tarja Ahlgren
Certified Nose Work Instructor
NACSW-certified instructor since 2018 with competitive experience at Elite levels. Organizes training events and serves as an ORT judge while maintaining active involvement in local scent work community development.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We exclusively use positive reinforcement techniques that avoid force, pain, or intimidation to build trust and effective communication between dogs and owners.
Do you offer classes for all experience levels?
Yes, our K9 Nose Work programs accommodate beginners through advanced competitors with specialized instruction tailored to each participant's skill level.
What certifications do your instructors hold?
Our team includes Certified Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and NACSW-certified instructors with active roles in competition judging and program development.
Are there opportunities for dog socialization?
We offer weekly group walks and hiking events that provide structured socialization while maintaining training consistency and safety standards.
How do you handle behavioral challenges?
Private sessions address specific issues through customized plans using force-free methods that focus on understanding root causes and implementing practical solutions.
What community activities do you organize?
We host K9 Nose Work trials, workshops, and outdoor events like our popular hiking club that emphasize skill development and community engagement.
