Success Story
Training an anxious rescue in Jacksonville
Izzy completed a board-and-train program at 4 months old, but none of the results transferred into her real life.
She listened only with the e-collar on, had separation anxiety, barked at noises, pulled on walks, and completely shut down during grooming or nail trims.
That’s when she came to Sit Happens.
Trainer
Kendra
Sit Happens Jacksonville
DOGS
Izzy
1-year-old Boxer/Pit Mix
I absolutely love our trainer Kendra! There has been such a total change in how my dog listens to me! I previously did a board and train through another company and did not have good results. I wish I’d called Sit Happens first!
Shelly Kennedy
Jacksonville, FL
Challenges
What dog training challenges did we face?
Every dog and family faces different challenges. Here’s what Izzy needed some help with:
- Separation anxiety
- Over-excitement and barking
- Fear of nail trims and vet handling
- Pulling on walks
- Inconsistent recall
- No follow-through after board & train
- Family unsure how to confidently guide her
Initial assessment
How were things when we arrived?
Kendra immediately noticed the real issue:
Izzy wasn’t confused, the parents were never taught how to lead her.
Izzy had pieces of training, but no structure or consistency at home.
Kendra focused first on helping Mom, Grandma, and Grandpa work together so Izzy finally had the same expectations everywhere she went.
Training Approach
Our tailored dog training plan
Kendra focused on building structure, confidence, and calm routines for Izzy and her family.
Structure building
#1
Created a clear routine, tightened communication, and got everyone on the same page. Immediately saw Izzy become calmer and more responsive.
Better walks & control
#2
Improved leash manners, reduced pulling, and started creating calmer behavior around distractions.
Real world distractions
#3
Worked with an extra person present and practiced engagement, impulse control, and following rules even with new people around.
Field trip to Lowe’s
#4
Focused on confidence in a busy environment. Izzy practiced calmness around carts, people, and noises — and impressed the whole family.
Vet handling confidence
#5
Major breakthrough. Izzy learned to stay calm for gentle restraint, letting Kendra hold her paws while introducing nail clippers, something she previously needed medication for.
The Results
How are they doing today?
After the completion of the Sit Happens 4-week dog training program, Izzy and her family are doing great.
- Walks calmly without pulling
- Redirects excitement instead of barking
- Handles noise & distractions with confidence
- Shows massive improvement with vet handling
- Listens to Mom, not just the e-collar
- Has reliable recall
- Is calmer, more mature, and more confident
The best Jacksonville Dog Trainer
Let us help you take your life back.
Our staff of Jacksonville dog trainers not only answer your calls, but are also equipped to answer all of your dog training questions, too.
Available every day from 9am to 7pm.
Call us today:
+1 (904) 248-8309
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
You bet! Sit Happens is the most established dog training provider in the Jacksonville area with over 14 years in business and 10,000+ dogs trained. We’re experienced in working with puppies and dogs of all life stages and have catered to more than 250 breeds.
Sit Happens is the leading dog training provider in the Jacksonville area, and we also proudly serve Tampa and St. Augustine. But we’re more than just another dog trainer— we’ve earned our reputation for a reason. While typical training might focus on getting your dog to follow commands, we go beyond the basics. Our approach is all about your dog’s overall wellbeing, helping them feel comfortable in their environment and strengthening their bond with you.
We make sure you and your family are part of the process, giving you hands-on lessons and exercises to practice with your dog between sessions. This way, you’re not just teaching your dog commands— you’re building an unbreakable bond with your furry friend.
Yes. Each of our trainers goes through a rigorous 90-day certification course. We only hire trainers with extensive prior experience who pass our thorough vetting process. Each of our trainers also carries their own professional accreditations and affiliations. They are required to undergo 100+ hours of continued education each year to stay up-to-date on the latest science-backed methods.
Of course. One major advantage of private training is that it fits into your lifestyle. Other training services make you drive to a facility on a strict schedule and charge extra for the flexibility of in-home lessons. At Sit Happens, all of our training plans are designed to work within your schedule.
Yes, we can either train each of your dogs individually or hold private group sessions with all of your dogs together. Each of our trainers can work with up to five dogs at a time.
Yes. In order to keep you, your dog, and your trainer safe, we kindly ask that you ensure that your dog has received all their vaccinations.
Yes, the cost of private dog training is comparable to group dog training, yet it’s twice as effective. In a group training setting, your dog has to overcome the distraction of other dogs they don’t know while still trying to learn the basics. Private training offers an array of additional benefits, including flexible scheduling, personalized lessons, and one-on-one attention from the trainer.