Dog Behavior Assessment in Chicago
Stop guessing. Start knowing.
A dog behavior assessment is the best starting point for Chicago dog owners who are not sure which training program their dog needs. A two-hour deep-dive into your dog's behavior — what's driving it, what will actually fix it, and whether we're the right fit to help.
Understanding Comes Before Training
Training without understanding is just guessing. The behavior assessment exists so every plan we build afterward is based on what is actually going on with your dog, not a generic starting point. This is why it is the recommended first step for most new clients.
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A real diagnostic step, not just a sales conversation.
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Assessment fee applies as a credit toward your program.
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Especially useful for aggression, anxiety, and reactivity cases.
WHO THIS IS FOR
For owners who are done
guessing what to do next
Dogs with reactivity, anxiety, aggression, or unpredictable behavior
Owners who feel stuck or out of options
Anyone burned by training that didn't deliver
People who want the truth before they commit to a program
Anyone considering Board & Train who wants a head start
What You Walk Away With
01
A clear answer on what's actually driving your dog's behavior, tied to your specific dog and situation.
02
An honest timeline and realistic expectations — no sugarcoating, no promises we can't back up
03
A written training plan you can act on, whether you work with us or not
04
Confidence in the decision ahead — whether that's enrolling in a program or knowing it's not the right time
THE PROCESS
How the Assessment Works
Every assessment follows the same four-step structure. No filler, no fluff — just the information we actually need.
1
Dog Evaluation
We assess your dog live — triggers, stress responses, thresholds, and behavioral patterns in real time
2
Handler Review
We look at how you communicate, manage, and respond — because dog behavior doesn't exist in a vacuum
3
Honest Debrief
You get direct feedback on what's actually happening, why it's happening, and what it will take to change it
4
Clear Path Forward
You leave with a plan — and a recommendation on which program (if any) is the right fit for your dog
WHY IT MATTERS
Why owners choose the Assessment
Owners who start with an assessment waste less time and money. We find what's driving the behavior first, then match your dog to the program that actually fits
Gives your dog a head start
Before Board & Train begins, we already know your dog — triggers, learning style, stress responses. Day one starts with context.
Ensures the right program fit
Not every dog needs the same approach. The assessment lets us match your dog to the program that will actually work.
Builds trainer familiarity
Your dog meets us before training starts. That relationship foundation changes how quickly trust develops in the program.
Reduces stress at intake
Dogs who've visited before arrive with familiarity. Less novelty stress means faster engagement and a smoother first week.
Sets the stage for faster progress
When training begins with a clear behavioral baseline, we spend less time diagnosing and more time training.
Stops the guessing cycle
If you've been getting conflicting advice or generic tips that don't work for your dog — this is how you get real answers.
💰
$200
credit toward
Board & Train
$200 Credit Toward Board & Train
Book your assessment and apply within 30 days — your $200 credit transfers directly to your Board & Train enrollment. One credit per dog, non-transferable. Optional but recommended for all B&T clients.
DURATION
2 Hours
Conducted at our facility
INVESTMENT
$400
B&T credit available within 30 days
REQUIREMENT
Optional
Recommended for all B&T enrollments
SALES PRESSURE
Zero
You leave with information, not an invoice
BEFORE YOU BOOK
Important To Know
THIS IS NOT A TRAINING SESSION
The assessment is an evaluation. Training starts in the program you choose.
VACCINATIONS MUST BE CURRENT
Rabies, Distemper/Parvo and Bordetella. Bring records or upload them to the client portal.
​WE MAY RECOMMEND AGAINST ENROLLING
If we're not the right fit, we'll tell you and point you in the right direction.
THE CREDIT HAS A 30-DAY WINDOW
Enroll within 30 days to apply your credit. It's non-transferable.
BRING YOUR DOG'S NORMAL SELF
Don't over-exercise or manage your dog before arriving. We need to see real behavior.
RESULTS TAKE 2 HOURS
Plan for the full session so we can see your dog settle, react and recover.
What to Bring to Your Assessment
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The leash, collar or harness you use every day
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Vaccination records
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Your dog's favorite treats
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Notes on triggers, bite history and anything you've tried before
Owners Who Started with an Assessment
BEHAVIOUR ASSESMENT
"Our dog had been kicked out of two other training programs for aggression. After the Board & Train, we can actually take him places. I didn't think this was possible."
TANYA W.