Realistic Dog Training
Balanced dog training services in Wichita Falls, TX
My Journey into the World of Dog Training
My journey into dog training began unexpectedly when I received Luna, a German Shepherd, from a friend. Luna was five months old, and even at just 12 weeks, she was already showing signs of reactivity—a behavior I’d never encountered before, despite my experience raising three puppies and managing six dogs.
My friend, who had purchased Luna from a breeder at 8 weeks old, wasn’t prepared for the specific challenges of the breed. She lacked the time and knowledge to train Luna, and the situation quickly became overwhelming for her. So, I stepped in, determined to help. I started with a Positive Only approach, guided by YouTube videos. I’d call Luna’s name, and when she responded, I rewarded her with high-value treats. But when it came to her reactivity—barking at people—the treats lost their power. Luna continued barking, and I realized I needed a different approach.
After digging deeper, I discovered Balanced Dog Training—a method that combined positive reinforcement with corrective tools. At four months old, Luna was introduced to this balanced approach, and the transformation was immediate. Her behavior improved, and we started building the trust and communication that was missing before.
Eventually, my friend decided that Luna’s needs were more than she could handle and asked if I would take her in permanently. That’s when my passion for dog training truly ignited.
I share this story because it underscores the importance of being open to different training methods. Like many, I was once wary of tools like prong collars and e-collars. I had misconceptions about them, believing they were harsh and unnecessary. But through my journey with Luna, I learned that these tools, when used correctly, are not only effective but also humane. They’ve helped me—and many others—create a balanced, respectful relationship with our dogs.
If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, I encourage you to keep an open mind. There’s often more to dog training than what meets the eye, and sometimes the right tools can open up a whole new way of connecting with your dog.
My friend, who had purchased Luna from a breeder at 8 weeks old, wasn’t prepared for the specific challenges of the breed. She lacked the time and knowledge to train Luna, and the situation quickly became overwhelming for her. So, I stepped in, determined to help. I started with a Positive Only approach, guided by YouTube videos. I’d call Luna’s name, and when she responded, I rewarded her with high-value treats. But when it came to her reactivity—barking at people—the treats lost their power. Luna continued barking, and I realized I needed a different approach.
After digging deeper, I discovered Balanced Dog Training—a method that combined positive reinforcement with corrective tools. At four months old, Luna was introduced to this balanced approach, and the transformation was immediate. Her behavior improved, and we started building the trust and communication that was missing before.
Eventually, my friend decided that Luna’s needs were more than she could handle and asked if I would take her in permanently. That’s when my passion for dog training truly ignited.
I share this story because it underscores the importance of being open to different training methods. Like many, I was once wary of tools like prong collars and e-collars. I had misconceptions about them, believing they were harsh and unnecessary. But through my journey with Luna, I learned that these tools, when used correctly, are not only effective but also humane. They’ve helped me—and many others—create a balanced, respectful relationship with our dogs.
If you’re struggling with your dog’s behavior, I encourage you to keep an open mind. There’s often more to dog training than what meets the eye, and sometimes the right tools can open up a whole new way of connecting with your dog.
Training Services
Private Training
Our Private Training program offers personalized one-on-one sessions that actively involve the owner, with a strong emphasis on practicing between sessions. The aim is to build dependable obedience in real-world, everyday situations.
Board And Train (COMMING SOON 2025!)
The Board and Train program offers an intensive, immersive experience for pet owners seeking a fully trained dog. Your dog will stay Monday through Friday, with the option to take them home for lessons on Friday or continue boarding through the weekend. If you choose weekend boarding, a mandatory 3-hour course will be required at the end of their stay. During the program, dogs will participate in socialization outings to practice real-world scenarios while receiving daily, hands-on training from the professional trainer. This program is perfect for busy owners or dogs with challenging behaviors that require focused, dedicated attention.
Tune-UP
A dog training tune-up is a refresher session designed to reinforce and fine-tune previously learned behaviors. It helps sharpen obedience, correct minor issues, and ensure your dog stays on track with their training, typically after completing an initial program or when behaviors need a quick adjustment.
(This is for past clients only.)
Success Stories: Our Clients' Journeys
- Katana was 5 months old and 58 pounds when I adopted her. Not knowing what the foster mom had taught Katana, I made the decision to take her to obedience training, which was a start, but I didn’t spendenough time with her afterwards, which was a mistake on my part. A friend of mine mentioned Realistic Dog Training to me because her daughter had success with her two dogs, so I decided to give Devene a call. Devene was/is very professional and easy to work with. She communicated if she was going to be early or late to our sessions, which is a rarity in today’s world. This may not sound like a game changer for you, but for me, it is. She far exceeded my expectations as a dog trainer. She listened to my concerns and made relevant suggestions. I could text her with comments and/or questions and she responded promptly. I never felt as if she was in a hurry to leave. If we were in the middle of training Katana, Devene stayed with it until katana was at a good stopping point. The introduction of the e-collar has been a game changer for me. Katana is very head strong and I had difficulty getting her to pay attention to me. The prong collar worked to a point, but the far reach of the e-collar is invaluable. I would and have suggested using Realistic Dog Training to anyone having behavioral issues with their dogs.
Nannette Page Kendall
- I can’t recommend Realistic Dog Training enough!Next week will be our last week of training and our dogs have come such a long way. Iven went from not walking on a leash with a stranger and freaking out over the littlest thing to crossing a wobble bridge while strange children were playing around him. Ketty super high energy, but she’s so eager to please.Today I was able to heel both dogs while holding the leashes in one hand at the park. No stress no thrashing and tangling with eachother. Next week for our final I’ll be walking them together in some pet friendly stores.Don’t get me wrong my dogs still need some work (I haven’t exactly been inundated with spare time to train during the week) but the improvements are leaps and bounds and I have the tools I need now to continue improving more and more.If your dogs need some work reach out to Realistic Dog Training you won’t regret it.
Samantha Blair