Darrel’s Training Center - Lovington, Illinois

Tonia S.

I recently had the pleasure of sending Remy for training with Darrel and couldn't be happier with the experience. From the very first interaction, it was clear that Darrel has a deep understanding of dog behavior and a genuine passion for helping dogs thrive. Darrel was patient, knowledgeable, and tailored the training to suit Remy’s specific needs. During the 3-weeks Remy was in training, Darrel sent video updates to share his progress. Not only am I seeing a huge improvement in Remy’s behavior, but I also feel empowered with the tools and techniques Darrel taught me to continue the training at home. I highly recommend Darrel to anyone looking for a kind, professional, and effective dog trainer!

Elizabeth H.

Darrel helped us find the perfect puppy in Central Illinois. He was very insightful and thoughtful about matching us with a puppy that would perhaps make a good therapy dog. He was successfully able to assess and then did training for her before she came home. After approximately a month of training with Darrel, she exceeded our expectations in behavior, leash training, and toileting. Darrel’s expertise and knowledge about animal behavior; helped ease us into the transition of dog ownership. At a year, she may go back for more training if needed. I recommend Darrel’s services without any hesitation. We do not regret his expertise in helping us with her from the beginning. We didn’t have time in our schedule nor any pet experience. Darrel undoubtedly helped us make some very proactive decisions only resulting in a positive furry little companion.

Stacey M.

Darrel truly has a special gift in his ability to train animals! Darrel trained our Golden Retriever puppy from weeks 8-12. During that time, we received many video and text updates on her progress and he was also very responsive when I checked in to see how she was doing. When we brought her home, she was fully crate trained and sleeping 8 hours each night quietly in her crate. She was also far down the potty training path and once she got used to our home and where to go potty, she was fully potty trained and ringing bells to let us know it was time to go outside (about 2 weeks after we got home)! Darrel made sure the handover was as smooth as possible and gave us an honest assessment about where she was on a range of things (crate training, potty training, sit, stay, leave it, etc) and taught us the basics on how to continue the training. After we got her home, we had several questions and Darrel was SO helpful! He even called me a few times to talk through my questions to make sure we were all set.

I HIGHLY recommend Darrel's training center for your training needs. He clearly cares about each animal he works with and cares that the family is successful after the training. He is a caring, knowledgeable, kind, gifted person and I can't say enough good things about the experience working with Darrel.

Camila L.

We had an amazing experience with Darrel. From the very beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, and truly cared about our puppy’s progress. They kept us updated with pictures and videos, making us feel involved every step of the way.

Our puppy not only learned essential commands but also gained confidence and better behavior at home. The training was personalized, effective, and fun! We can’t thank Darrel enough for his dedication and patience. If you’re looking for a fantastic dog trainer, we highly recommend Darrel.

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Janet W.

When we got our Mini-Bernese pup from Love Berners, he had already had puppy training from Darrel. That early start was a tremendous help. Now, we use Darrel's boarding and training services when we travel. Our pup recognizes his friends and is excited to be there. He gets refresher and further training in a loving environment where he is very comfortable. We get peace of mind knowing he is in great hands getting new skills and reinforcement of good behavior. We also get more tips and training for us. We'll be back next vacation time. We highly recommend Darrel and his helpers at Darrel's Training Center.

Alan

Darrel did a fabulous job with our German Shepard, He shared videos of Remy’s progress through out his training, he also brought Remy home and shared with us how to keep the training going at home.Darrel has a young man helping him ( Brandon) whom also is fantastic! And truly loves the animals that they are training! Remy was very happy and well cared for. Highly recommend Darrel’s Training Center.

Ashley S.

I cannot say enough great things about Darrel and his wonderful family! He did such a great job with my fur puppy, Clarence. Clarence is so well behaved and learned so much while at the training center. I get so many compliments on how well behaved and sweet he is. My parents ended up bringing their new puppy, Jack, to Darrel as well and had an equally great experience. On top of it all, he treats your pup like his own. Clarence was so happy to go back and visit Darrel!

Eli F.

Winston went to Darrel’s Training Center right at 8 weeks old & spent 3 weeks there! He is potty & crate trained & knows how to sit, lay down & stay (plus started working on a few other things!) He’s amazing & so well behaved! Darrel sent text & video updates almost daily & answered all our frequent questions. We will definitely send Winston back for more advanced training when we travel & are super grateful to Darrel for giving him such a great start at being successful in life.