Balanced Behavior Dog Training Center

I am beyond blessed to have found Balanced Behavior in Palatine, Illinois. Bill (owner/trainer) and Krista (trainer) truly gave my mutt and me a new "leash" on life. Over time, my dog’s reactivity and behavior issues had increased to a point of significant concern. I researched many dog trainers and behavioral training programs in the area, but after reading reviews, watching their educational content, and doing a 1:1 interview, I chose Balanced Behavior. I’ve worked with trainers in the past, but this behavioral dog training program was different. The curriculum made sense, the structure was clear, and the results have been incredible. Their training focuses on creating calm behavior, structure, and better communication between dog and owner—which is precisely what dogs with reactivity or behavioral problems need. While we’ve graduated from the program, our work continues. We practice the training at home and opted to continue with Stay & Train so my dog can build more confidence in a controlled environment with exposure to other dogs and people. This process has been a critical step in reinforcing the training. Balanced Behavior also hosts a monthly pack walk, which provides real-world training opportunities. I was very apprehensive about attending at first because of my dog’s reactivity, but we went right after graduating and successfully completed the walk and attended the post-walk Q&A. That experience alone showed me how much progress "we" had made. I highly recommend Balanced Behavior Dog Training. Their program truly works.

I had such a wonderful experience with Balanced Behavior! My dog struggled with separation anxiety, and thanks to Bill and Krista’s knowledgeable and compassionate approach, he’s now a much calmer dog. They also guided me to reintroduce crate training, which will make a huge difference for both of us. It’s clear they truly care about the dogs and the owners, and their support goes beyond the training sessions. I’m so grateful for the positive transformation and highly recommend them!

You often see reviews that begin with…” if I could give 100 stars I would” & I think the reviewer must be a relative or close friend… But in this instance, it is not hyperbole or bias that I say without hesitation, our experience with Bill Balatsos and Krista Mayer at Balanced Behavior Dog Training has from end to end been nothing short of exceptional as they are both dedicated, compassionate and talented professionals; meeting and exceeding all expectations for the care and training of our Sweet George Washington! We searched online and local shelters for someone who needed a new forever home…. We found “George”; a 1 ½ year old, Terrier, Poodle, Labrador, Pitbull mix (yes ALL of that rolled into one 90lb. bundle of fun!) When we adopted George, his full background was unknown he was reactive to new people and things which was just about everything and everyone; sweet but willful, destructive & unpredictable. First George spent 2 weeks at a board & train facility—while he had learned a few basic commands, the transition back to our home was incomplete & our root concerns-reactivity, calmly adjusting to new circumstances, socialization had not been addressed. Next we tried a local group training program—that was even worse as it was a cookie-cutter experience where owners of the “bad dogs” were “encouraged” to use CBD calming treats before the dog came to class!! Again, never taking time to understand George’s challenges. Finding Balanced Behavior Dog Training: Disappointed and almost ready to accept that George’s life & experiences were going to need limitations, a friend happened to mention her friend’s dog had just completed GOAT Training and I might want to give Bill a call--- It was the BEST call I could have EVER made— Bill thoughtfully listed to our previous experiences and encouraged me to give George (and I) a new opportunity to learn through their G.O.A.T program. I was concerned that the program design would conflict with my irregular work travel schedule--- Bill was understanding and did not hesitate to accommodate our class schedule to meet my needs. Each class had a tailored pace with specific goals for George’s success— a mix of learning physical and mental experiences, learning/training interaction, physical activities, confidence building, and equally important—constructive relaxation/down time. Training debriefs were equally structured & on point-- Expectations were clear & consistent.This is/ was key to our in-home follow-up success in between sessions. Their commitment to the progressive “building block basic” learning has also been an invaluable training tool we have adopted in our home. George successfully “graduated” G.O.A.T training & we could not be happier—George is more confident with a solid understanding of his expectations & boundaries. We’ve learned the importance of clarity & follow through working with George— clarity is meaningless without consistent follow-through from us. Beyond G.O.A.T:We”re thrilled to be able to continue other training support opportunities offered. We participate in the Stay and Train Program – a tremendous constructive & day train. We also truly appreciate the In-Home Training Visit option: George had great anxiety with his first few veterinarian visits— We arranged for an “on-site” vet support visit where Bill joined us to ensure George and our Vet had a good checkup. While this review is longer than most, I sincerely hope that it reflects the gifted behavioral training talents and gifted genius of the programs Bill and Krista have developed. But their talents go far beyond “dog training” as their genuine commitment and compassion for God’s special creatures and those who care for them come from their hearts. If any of our experiences resonate with you & your pup, please take the time to speak with Bill and Krista—you will not regret the time and investment-- We are ever grateful to you both!! Our George is now ready and eager to romp through a full, happy and safe life – we could not ask for anything more!!!