Explore Training Programs
At Training with Karen, I provide the structure and clarity that create reliable behavior change. When expectations are clear and leadership is consistent, dogs thrive. If you're ready for lasting results, it's time to take the next step.
Dogs learn through repetition, clarity, and consistency. When structure is missing, confusion grows. When communication is clear, behavior changes.
At Training with Karen, I help you take control of the patterns in your home and replace frustration with clarity. Through structured, real-world training, we build dogs who understand expectations — and owners who feel confident leading them.
Whether you just brought a new puppy home or you are struggling with reactivity, impulse control, or confusing and unwanted behaviors, you are not failing and you are not alone.
You're in the right place!
So you think you need a dog trainer...
My approach is balanced and structured combining clear expectations, fair feedback, and repetition to create reliable behavior.
A Little More About Us
That experience shapes how I train today — with structure, fairness, and practical application designed for real life.
Over time, I recognized that meaningful results require individualized attention, accountability, and follow-through — not just a completed program. That realization led me to build Training with Karen: a practice centered on structured, real-world application and long-term success.
Throughout the years, I have worked with anxious, reactive, and behaviorally complex dogs, including rescue and foster cases facing fear, reactivity, and instability. Navigating difficult vet visits, in-home conflict, and fear-based behavior strengthened my understanding that behavior modification requires depth, patience, and clear leadership.
My work is rooted in one core principle: clear communication creates better relationships. Obedience and behavior modification are not about control — they are about structure, understanding, and consistency.
My professional journey began after working extensively with my own dog through advanced training programs. I was recruited to join the training team and eventually advanced to Head Trainer, gaining hands-on experience with a wide range of behavioral challenges and client dynamics.
Why Clients Choose Training with Karen
- Structured, real-world training that translates beyond the session
- Advanced experience with reactivity and behavior modification
- Clear expectations, consistent follow-through, measurable progress
- Programs built for long-term success, not quick fixes
- Personalized strategy for each dog and household
- Professional guidance that builds confident owners
- Head Trainer Experience | 8+ Years Professional Training | Rescue & Behavior Case Experience
Each dog presents a unique challenge, and that’s exactly what drives me. I believe lasting change comes from clarity, consistency, and leadership — not quick fixes.
Today, I continue to refine my methods, helping dogs and their owners build stability, confidence, and real-world reliability.
Over the years, I transitioned from client to professional trainer, eventually advancing to Head Trainer within an established program before launching Training with Karen. I have now worked with over a thousand dogs across obedience, behavior modification, and reactivity cases — from private clients to rescue partnerships.
My path into dog training was shaped by both challenge and growth. Early experiences with behaviorally complex dogs — including resource guarding, fear, and reactivity — pushed me to seek deeper understanding beyond basic obedience. One dog in particular, Madigan (“Madi”), became the turning point in my journey. Through patience, structured guidance, and consistent application, she transformed from a fearful pup into a confident, stable companion.
Those experiences ignited a commitment to mastering behavior, not just commands.
Meet Your Trainer
Explore Training programs
Training Philosophy Snapshot
- Clarity Over Confusion - Dogs thrive when expectations are consistent and communication is clear.
- Structure Builds Confidence - Reliable behavior comes from repetition, boundaries, and real-world application.
- Accountability Creates Results - Training is a partnership. Owners play an active role in lasting change.
- Fair, Balanced Guidance - Dogs learn best when feedback is timely, consistent, and appropriate to the situation.
- Real-Life Application - Skills must translate beyond the session — into your home, your walks, and your daily routine.
Our programs are all one-on-one, personalized just for you and your furry friend. Depending on your dog's age, I usually suggest spacing lessons at least 6 days apart so you have plenty of time to practice what you've learned. Since the lessons are tailored to your needs, we'll focus on the next steps each time we meet. It doesn't have to be a weekly commitment – lessons could be spread out over a month. However, for puppies, the schedule might be different. If you have the time and dedication, daily lessons can help them learn and grow. Regardless of the timing, remember: if you don't do your homework, picking up where we left off won't be as smooth!
5. How are lessons structured?
There is typically a minimum of two weeks wait time, but it can occasionally be longer.
4. Is there a waiting list to schedule?
Yes. In home lesson requests can be accommodated with an additional travel fee.
3. Do you do lessons in my home?
Group Lessons are case by case. We prefer 1 on 1 lessons, but can sometimes do a group lesson for Puppy Socialization or for clients who have gone through Basic and Advanced lessons.
2. Do you teach group lessons?
Serving Delaware, Chester and Delaware County in PA, NJ and MD 30 minutes from DE.
1. Where are you located?
Frequently Asked Questions
Have another question that was not addressed here? Send us a message or email!
- Positive reinforcement, such as praise, treats, and interaction
- Aversive consequences like leash pressure, leash pops
- Properly-conditioned training tools
- Using all available tools and adjusting them as needed
I’m a balanced, real-world dog trainer. That means I teach dogs what to do (clear guidance, structure, and reps), and I also teach them what not to do (fair boundaries and follow-through). My focus is building calm, confident, reliable dogs—not just dogs who can listen in your living room. We train for real life: leash walks, guests, public spaces, distractions, and day-to-day routines. Balanced trainers use a variety of techniques, including:
10. What type of Trainer are you?
Most clients begin with basic obedience. Can your dog reliably come when called, sit, stay, and so on, every time? If your pup doesn't have the "3 D's" – distance, duration, and distractions – then we start from square one to build a strong foundation. However, if I see that your dog has mastered the basics, we'll tailor the lessons to fit your specific needs.
9. My dog knows the basics, do I have to start with Basic Obedience?
There is no such thing! You CAN teach an old dog new tricks!
8. How old is too old for training?
You should start training as soon as you get your new family member home!
7. What age should I start training my puppy?
I do not have any breed restrictions at all!
6. What breeds do you train?
Contact us
Lets chat
How Can We Help?
Please indicate the program name and your main concern, or let us know if you need help choosing if you’re not sure yet!
(Main concerns, current issues, what you hope to get from working with me)
