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Monday 8am - 8pm Wednesday 8am - 7pm Thursday 8am - 7pm Friday 8am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 5pm Sunday 9am - 1pm

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Willow River Dog Training

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United States
Cheshire Village, CT
Willow River Dog Training

Training humans one dog at a time.

CPDT-KSA (Knowledge and Skills Assessed)
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)

11/20/2025

Why Pack Drive Matters More Than People Realize

Every dog is born with a handful of natural drives. Prey drive, play drive, food drive, hunt drive. But there is one drive that quietly makes or breaks behavior, and that is pack drive.
Pack drive is a dog’s need for structure, belonging, and leadership. It is the reason some dogs fall apart when they think they are in charge and the reason others thrive the moment someone steps into that calm, neutral, teacher role.
When pack drive is met, you see a dog settle, check in, and follow direction. When it isn’t met, you often see reactivity, guarding, pulling, barking, and all the behaviors humans label as “bad.” Most of the time, it’s not a training flaw. It’s a pack structure flaw.
Reactively is rarely about the other dog on the trail. It is about your dog believing the responsibility belongs to them instead of you. When the human leads the walk, sets the tone, and communicates clearly, the dog naturally shifts from “I must act” to “I’ll follow your lead.”
A balanced dog doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when their strongest instinct, pack drive, is honored and understood.

If you want to reduce reactivity, start with the pack. That is where everything begins and where everything calms down.

10/25/2025

Every dog is capable of learning and thriving when communication is clear and leadership is consistent. My approach is built on years of hands-on experience, professional education, and a deep understanding of canine behavior.

When you work with me, you’re not just getting a trainer, you’re getting a partner who’s invested in your dog’s success. From structured lessons to real-world training in everyday environments, I guide owners to build confident, balanced relationships with their dogs.

If you’ve ever wished for a dog who listens, trusts, and enjoys life by your side, training with Willow River might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.

10/22/2025

What if your dog could confidently join you at family events, outings, and vacations, without the stress or uncertainty?
That’s the kind of freedom Rebecca from Willow River Dog Training helps you build. Training isn’t limited to one location. We work in your home, my home, on the Lineal Trail, on at a brewery, winery, beach, Home Depot, or your favorite spot. Real-world training creates real-world results.
At Willow River, training looks different for everyone because every dog and owner is unique. You’re not just working with a trainer, you’re joining the Willow River family. From boarding and pack hikes to ongoing communication and support, our relationship doesn’t end when the lesson does.
Your dog deserves the confidence to go anywhere with you.
Message Willow River Dog Training today to schedule your first session.

10/20/2025

At Willow River Dog Training, my philosophy is simple; balance creates the best version of your dog.

When a dog’s world is structured with clear boundaries, leadership, and trust, they are free to truly enjoy their life; from forming healthy friendships with other dogs to confidently exploring the world around them.

Dogs don’t rely on words the way we do. They speak in body language, energy, and movement. When we learn to communicate through our body language and give clear cues, they respond faster and more naturally than they ever could to words alone.

When humans and dogs understand each other on this level, everything changes. Training isn’t just about obedience; it’s about creating balance, trust, and a relationship built on respect and clarity. That’s when you see your dog become their best self.

10/18/2025

Off Leash Freedom Starts with Training
Before allowing your dog to run free, it’s crucial that they have 100% reliable recall. Every week, we hear about incidents involving dogs that are off leash but not responsive to their owner’s verbal commands.

At Willow River Dog Training, I teach both humans and dogs how to achieve a confident, hesitation-free recall—because true freedom comes with responsible training.

Meet Sarge. He’s learning that off leash adventures aren’t just about running—they’re about trust, communication, and solid training.

Train first. Freedom follows.

10/14/2025

Real progress looks like this.

This is a text I received from one of my clients today about their dog, Kobi:

“Hi, just wanted to give you a quick update on Kobi. I took him out in the yard so he could do what he had to do and the dog next door was out in his yard. When the dog, a standard poodle, saw Kobi, the dog went crazy—barking, jumping, throwing himself against the fence. Previously Kobi would have barked back, pulled and would not have been able to focus on why he was out there. Today, Kobi made no sound, he did give the dog the evil eye, and ignored the dog. And, Kobi accomplished his mission. I was very proud of him! Thanks for your help with this.”

Reactivity doesn’t get fixed with wishful thinking. It’s about structure, timing, clear communication, and helping your dog learn how to make better choices even when the world around them is loud.

This is what I do every day with dogs like Kobi—turning chaos into calm.

If you have a reactive dog and you’re ready to make real progress, let’s work together.
Cheshire, CT
Balanced training | Reactivity | Obedience | Behavior modification
Message me to set up your consultation.

10/05/2025

Introducing New Dog Friends the Right Way

When dogs meet for the first time, movement is key. Allowing them to walk, circle, and communicate naturally helps keep their energy balanced and reduces tension.

Leashes can create unnecessary pressure between dogs, so whenever it’s safe and appropriate, I prefer off-leash or long-line introductions where dogs can express themselves freely through body language.

What you’re seeing here is a perfect example; Louie and Lexi meeting for the first time. Each dog showed curiosity, gave space, mirrored calm energy, and respected the other’s signals. This kind of introduction builds trust, confidence, and healthy social skills.

Let dogs be dogs, teach manners, supervise respectfully, and let body language do the talking.

09/27/2025

Every dog has a story, and every family has goals. At Willow River Dog Training, I bring those together with clear communication, structure, and leadership that makes life with your dog easier and more enjoyable.

This year has been filled with wagging tails, first “Yes!” moments, and families learning how to truly connect with their dogs. That’s what training is about, it’s not just sit, stay, and come. It’s building trust, balance, and confidence so your dog can thrive in your home and your family can enjoy harmony.

If you’ve been thinking about training, today is the perfect day to take the first step. Send me a message and let’s make this holiday season the one where your dog feels understood, guided, and proud of their place in your family pack.

📩 Message me to book your training session

08/01/2025

Fun Fact Friday – Eye Contact and “I Love You”

Did you know that when you look into your dog’s eyes while they’re resting and calmly say, “I love you,” it actually releases oxytocin—the same bonding hormone that strengthens the connection between mothers and babies?

This quiet moment, when your energy is grounded and your gaze is soft, tells your dog, “You’re safe here.” To them, it’s more than just words. It’s your presence, your tone, and your stillness that speak volumes.

So next time your pup is curled up near you, try it. Look into their eyes with love, and you’ll both feel it. That’s not just affection—it’s chemistry.

Willow River Dog Training
Helping dogs and humans speak the same language, one look at a time.

07/25/2025

🐾 Fun Fact Friday 🐾
Did you know your dog can feel the Friday vibes too?

Dogs are incredibly in tune with our emotions and routines. When the whole pack is home and relaxed, they feel that shift in energy, less stress, more joy, and a whole lot of tail wags. Whether it’s your lighter mood, the scent of your weekend plans, or the sound of everyone laughing together, your dog KNOWS: the pack is together, and all is well.

At Willow River Dog Training, we believe training starts with understanding the emotional world of your dog, because leadership is energy, not just commands.

Happy Friday from our pack to yours!

05/11/2025

🐾 Happy Mother’s Day to All the Incredible Dog Moms! 🐾
Today, we celebrate the unwavering love, patience, and dedication you show to your furry companions. From early morning walks to late-night cuddles, your commitment doesn’t go unnoticed. Your pups are lucky to have you, and so are we!

Thank you for being the amazing dog moms that you are. Wishing you a day filled with wagging tails, wet-nosed kisses, and all the joy your heart can hold.

05/06/2025

From heartbreak 💔 to healing—❤️‍🩹meet Kobi. ♥️

Once abandoned and afraid, now adored and thriving thanks to dedicated training, a loving home, and a whole lot of heart.
SUCCESS STORY:
Kobi’s Comeback: From Abandonment to a Loving Home
When Kobi was found abandoned on Main Street in East Haven, his future looked uncertain. But with the swift help of East Haven Animal Shelter and a compassionate new owner, Kobi was given a second chance—and he ran with it.
With training support from Rebecca (that’s me!), Kobi has blossomed. His owner shared:

“Kobi was perfectly behaved with guests! I introduced him from the crate as you suggested and he did great. He stopped begging for food when told, and later curled up in his bed and slept. I was so pleased!”

And more good news:

“Kobi went to the groomer and behaved perfectly. They thought he was an angel.”

We’ve also been working on the “heel” command:

“He got confused at first and sat down mid-walk, so we practiced at home. Back at the park, we were better—not perfect—but making progress!”

Kobi is proof that trust can be rebuilt and good behavior can be learned—even after trauma. With patience, structure, and love, a once-forgotten pup is now a well-mannered companion who brings joy to everyone he meets.

Address

Cheshire Village, CT
06410

Opening Hours

Monday	8am - 8pm
Wednesday	8am - 7pm
Thursday	8am - 7pm
Friday	8am - 5pm
Saturday	9am - 5pm
Sunday	9am - 1pm

Telephone

+12036717074

Website

facebook.com

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