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Darrel’s Training Center

Lovington, Illinois

5/5· 72 Google reviews

About Darrel’s Training Center

With a deep understanding of canine behavior, we employ positive reinforcement and balanced training techniques, including simple pressure and release, to build trust and effective communication. Our motto, “Training that creates Trust,” encapsulates our philosophy, ensuring a harmonious and respectful companionship.

Training & services

Training goals

  • Crate training Customer-reported
  • House training
  • Leash training Customer-reported
  • Obedience training
  • Puppy training

How training happens

  • Board and train
  • Owner coaching Customer-reported

Dog age

  • Puppies

Training level

  • Advanced training Customer-reported

Support between sessions

  • Photo updates Customer-reported

Training approach

  • Balanced training
  • Positive reinforcement

Additional services

  • Boarding

Other listed services

View 4 additional details
  • Dog Basic
  • Personalized Dog Training
  • Training Behavioral
  • Us Training

Confirm current programs and availability directly.

Questions & answers

From Google

What people have asked about this business.

What’s the best way to house-train my puppy?

Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, or waking up. Reward them immediately when they go in the right spot. Establish a routine, supervise them indoors, and use crate training to prevent accidents.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I stop my dog from chewing on things they shouldn’t?

Redirect your dog to appropriate chew toys whenever they start chewing on something they shouldn’t. Remove access to tempting items and ensure they’re getting enough exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Additionally, teach a “leave it” cue by showing them a tempting item, saying “leave it,” and rewarding them when they ignore it. Practice this regularly to reinforce the command.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I teach my dog to come when called?

Use a happy, enthusiastic tone when calling your dog. Start in a distraction-free area and reward them with treats or praise when they come. Gradually increase distractions and always make coming to you a positive experience.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What should I do if my dog shows aggression toward other dogs or people?

Stay calm and avoid punishment, which can worsen aggression. Use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques to help them associate other dogs or people with positive experiences.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What’s the easiest way to teach basic commands like sit, stay, and leave it?

Use positive reinforcement: Sit: Hold a treat above their head and move it back slightly to encourage them to sit, then reward. Stay: Ask them to sit, hold your hand up, say “stay,” and reward after a few seconds. Gradually increase the time. Leave it: Place a treat on the floor, cover it, and say “leave it.” When they stop trying to grab it, reward them with a different treat.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
What’s the best way to introduce my dog to new people or pets?

Introduce them in neutral environments and keep initial interactions short and positive. Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior. Supervise the introductions and gradually increase interaction time as your dog becomes comfortable.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from barking excessively?

Identify the trigger (e.g., strangers, boredom, or noise). Use consistent training like teaching the “quiet” command, rewarding silence, and redirecting their attention with toys or treats. Ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Teach loose-leash walking by stopping or changing direction whenever your dog pulls. Reward them when the leash is slack. Use a proper harness or collar for better control, and practice in low-distraction environments first.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I teach my dog to stay off the furniture?

Use consistent commands like “off” and reward your dog when they comply. Provide a comfortable alternative, such as a dog bed, and redirect them there. Keep your dog on a leash during training to gently guide them away from the furniture and reinforce the behavior.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How can I reduce my dog’s separation anxiety?

Gradually get your dog used to being alone by leaving for short periods and slowly increasing the time. Provide engaging toys, such as puzzle feeders, and avoid dramatic goodbyes or greetings. Crate training and calming aids may also help.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google
How do I stop my dog from jumping on me?

Teach your dog to sit when greeting you and reward calm behavior. Maintain good posture, and when moving, step toward your dog rather than retreating. This helps discourage jumping while reinforcing polite behavior.

Community answer · Darrel’s Training Center · 2025-09-21

Question on Google

Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.

Customer reviews

Google listing
5
out of 572 Google reviews

Mentioned in reviews

  • Crate training 14
  • Video updates 13
  • Potty training 7
  • Basic obedience 5
  • Command training 4
  • Tailored training 3
All 10 topics
  • Calm training 2
  • Confidence training 2
  • Loose leash walking 2
  • Separation anxiety training 2

Google review topics, not confirmed services.

73 collected reviews

Text reviews first · newest first
Alan
5/5
Darrel did a fabulous job with our German Shepard, He shared videos of Remy’s progress through out his training, he also brought Remy home and shared with us how to keep the training going at home.Darrel has a young man helping him ( Brandon) whom also is fantastic! And truly lov…Read full reviewClose full review

Darrel did a fabulous job with our German Shepard, He shared videos of Remy’s progress through out his training, he also brought Remy home and shared with us how to keep the training going at home.Darrel has a young man helping him ( Brandon) whom also is fantastic! And truly loves the animals that they are training! Remy was very happy and well cared for. Highly recommend Darrel’s Training Center.

Tonia Siuts
5/5
I recently had the pleasure of sending Remy for training with Darrel and couldn't be happier with the experience. From the very first interaction, it was clear that Darrel has a deep understanding of dog behavior and a genuine passion for helping dogs thrive. Darrel was patient, …Read full reviewClose full review

I recently had the pleasure of sending Remy for training with Darrel and couldn't be happier with the experience. From the very first interaction, it was clear that Darrel has a deep understanding of dog behavior and a genuine passion for helping dogs thrive. Darrel was patient, knowledgeable, and tailored the training to suit Remy’s specific needs. During the 3-weeks Remy was in training, Darrel sent video updates to share his progress. Not only am I seeing a huge improvement in Remy’s behavior, but I also feel empowered with the tools and techniques Darrel taught me to continue the training at home. I highly recommend Darrel to anyone looking for a kind, professional, and effective dog trainer!

Sara Fowler
5/5

The absolute best! We drove all the way from the Northshore of Chicago to bring our puppy to training and it was well worth it. From the minute we picked her up we saw a huge difference in her behavior. Darrel thoroughly explained his process and how to continue the work at home, answering all of our questions along the way. Cannot recommend Darrel enough!

Melissa Spacapan
5/5
We have been incredibly happy with Darrel’s Training Center. We initially used him for a board and train for our 1 year old Aussiedoodle who was reactive and struggled with leash walking. During the 2 weeks Patches was with Darrel, we received progress videos and photos every cou…Read full reviewClose full review

We have been incredibly happy with Darrel’s Training Center. We initially used him for a board and train for our 1 year old Aussiedoodle who was reactive and struggled with leash walking. During the 2 weeks Patches was with Darrel, we received progress videos and photos every couple days. After the 2 week board and train, Darrel continued to work with us and check in to make sure our dog was doing well with his training. Almost a year later, Patches is infinitely more manageable and such a joy to us. We continue to use Darrel for boarding when we are out of town as we trust him immensely and Patches LOVES to go hang out on the farm with Darrel and his family. We are so thankful we heard about Darrel’s Training Center and will continue to use their services going forward!

Elizabeth Hanna
5/5
Darrel helped us find the perfect puppy in Central Illinois. He was very insightful and thoughtful about matching us with a puppy that would perhaps make a good therapy dog. He was successfully able to assess and then did training for her before she came home. After approximately…Read full reviewClose full review

Darrel helped us find the perfect puppy in Central Illinois. He was very insightful and thoughtful about matching us with a puppy that would perhaps make a good therapy dog. He was successfully able to assess and then did training for her before she came home. After approximately a month of training with Darrel, she exceeded our expectations in behavior, leash training, and toileting. Darrel’s expertise and knowledge about animal behavior; helped ease us into the transition of dog ownership. At a year, she may go back for more training if needed. I recommend Darrel’s services without any hesitation. We do not regret his expertise in helping us with her from the beginning. We didn’t have time in our schedule nor any pet experience. Darrel undoubtedly helped us make some very proactive decisions only resulting in a positive furry little companion.

Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.

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