Kerrie Hoar, M.S., CDBC, CPDT-KA, ADT, FFCP (she/her/hers)
After teaching group classes for puppies, basic manners and reactivity, I opened Crimson Hound to fill a need for a rewards-based trainer who works with clients one-to-one in their homes.
When working with my clients, I take a holistic approach. Rather than focusing solely on obedience, I focus on strengthening the human-dog relationship. I don’t subscribe to a one-size-fits-all or quick-fix approach; instead, I use realistic goal setting, management protocols, enrichment and, when necessary, teaching new behaviors. We will create a plan that is customized to meet both the client’s goals and the dog’s needs.
My training philosophy is grounded in rewards-based methods and I do not prescribe to methods or tools that rely upon pain, force, coercion and punishment. I focus on understanding why the dog is doing what he is doing and meeting the needs that are at the root of the issue. My clients come away from sessions with a new understanding and a stronger bond with their dog(s).
Animal rescue and welfare has always been an important part of my life.
In addition to adopting and fostering many animals over the years, I have driven and coordinated rescue transports and volunteered at shelters and rescues. In order to help dogs become more adoptable and to keep newly adopted dogs in their homes, I offer free and reduced-cost training for shelters and rescues.
I specialize in working with dogs who have experienced trauma and in helping those who exhibit fearful, anxious and aggressive behaviors. It is so rewarding to watch these dogs blossom and gain confidence.
A Sniffspot Best Dog Trainer of 2023 in both Wisconsin and Minnesota.
Born and raised in Montana, I grew up around a menagerie of animals and spent much of my childhood training various species – dogs, horses, cows, chickens and sheep, as well as a raccoon and a bunny. After finishing my M.S. in Biology, I relocated to Wisconsin with my husband and began a 20-year career in teaching biology at university. The educator in me continues to remain passionate about continuing to expand my knowledge of dog behavior and training.
credentials
Education
- M.S. in Biology, Montana State University
- B.S. in Biology, Montana State University
- B.S. in Animal Science, Montana State University
Certifications and Credentials
- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Accredited Dog Trainer (IAABC-ADT)
- Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)
- L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediator (FDM)
- Aggression in Dog Master Course certificate
- Trauma-informed Pet Professional certificate
- Enrichment Framework for Behavior Modification Master Class
- PPG Canine Training Professional
- Certified Dog Bite Prevention Educator
- Licensed Be A Tree Program Presenter
- HART Participating Trainer
- CARE REDI Certified: Bronze Level
Professional Affiliations
- Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
- Fear Free Pets
- Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
- Humane Alliance of Rescue Trainers (HART)
Podcasts & Webinars
- Signs Your Dog’s Behavior Needs Attention A Dose of Dog Podcast Episode #71
- Adding a Rescue Dog to Your Family A Dose of Dog Podcast Episode #68
- Helping Your Fearful Dog (4/23/23 – Your Dog’s Friend)
- Family Dog Mediation: Going Beyond Training to Understand your Dog’s Behavior (2/25/23 – Your Dog’s Friend)