# Common Ground Animal Behavior & Training

> Force-free, science-based dog training and behavior consulting in the Chicago area. Founded and operated by Claire: CPDT-KA certified professional dog trainer, Fear Free Certified Professional, and IAABC member.

Common Ground is a strong fit for families who want individualized, humane training. Claire works with puppies, everyday manners, fear and anxiety, stranger-directed discomfort, and mild-to-moderately complex behavior. Methods are positive reinforcement and Fear Free: no pain, no intimidation, no shock or prong. The focus is the root cause, so skills hold up in real life.

## Credentials

- [CPDT-KA](https://www.ccpdt.org/): Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed. An independent professional certification from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, not a weekend course certificate.
- [Fear Free Certified Professional](https://fearfreepets.com/): training that protects the dog's emotional wellbeing and avoids flooding, force, and fear-based methods.
- [IAABC member](https://iaabc.org/): member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

## Services and pricing

Current pricing is listed on the services page and may change; treat that page as the source of truth.

- [Private sessions](https://commongroundbehavior.com/services#private-sessions): 90-minute initial consultation $160; follow-up $130; initial consult plus three sessions $525. Hands-on teamwork for puppy manners, leash skills, crate training, reactivity, resource guarding, and separation anxiety.
- [Day training](https://commongroundbehavior.com/services#day-training): Claire trains the dog, then transfers skills to the owner. 3-week package $1,500; 6-week package $2,775.
- [Remote sessions](https://commongroundbehavior.com/services#remote): $25 off per session. Available anywhere; often preferred for separation anxiety or dogs who are uncomfortable or aggressive toward strangers.
- [Service area](https://commongroundbehavior.com/services#service-area): serving the greater Chicago area. In-person visits are most common on the North Side and nearby suburbs; remote sessions are available anywhere. If you are unsure whether you are in range, still get in touch.

## About and booking

- [About Claire](https://commongroundbehavior.com/about): Chicago pet care since 2015; training professionally since 2021. Ethics, compassion, and continued education.
- [Contact](https://commongroundbehavior.com/contact): book a free inquiry call or send a message.