About Obedient Shepherds

Obedient Shepherds is a Jackson, Tennessee trainer run by a couple. The business says it "was founded in 2000, and has developed a very special reputation with my customers and their owners in Jackson, Tennessee", and the welcome page names the pair by first name – "Without your sacrifices Amy and I would not be able to live our dreams." Its footer gives the location as "Jackson, TN", and the site says its work reaches "pet owners across the West Tennessee area".

Method, stated as a position

The site is unusually direct about where it sits between firmness and force: "I believe that being firm and having a clear set of boundaries is one thing, but being fierce is just not necessary." It frames dogs as "social animals, who enjoy love and family life" and the goal as – "Let's get them out of the dog house, give them more positive re-enforcement, and turn them into another family member." The training system is described as "full of fun techniques".

Board and train, one dog at a time

This is the most fully described program on the site, and the detail is specific rather than generic. "When we board and train we do one pup at a time." Dogs stay with the trainers – "Sessions can be done at my home with personalized plans to fit your pet's needs and your lifestyle." Socialization happens in real public settings rather than a training room: "Your pup will be socialized at Petco, Lowes, Home Depot, Petsmart and tractor supply so he or she will learn how to act in public." Owners are kept in the loop throughout – "You will get videos, pictures and routine video calls to keep you and your family up to date on your pups daily progress."

Behavior consulting and in-home work

Two further services are published under "My Services". "Behavior Consulting" is described as work that "involves an intimate understanding of your animal's natural and individual history", where "my techniques will lay the foundation for you to build upon". "In Home Training" is listed as a service in its own right; ask what it involves. A separate "Day Training" offer is described as "a one-on-one training session that caters to their specific needs", focused on "Learning to walk correctly on a leash and socializing your pup".

Credentials

The site describes the trainer as "the finest certified Dog Trainer" and carries the line "Vendor For the State Of Tennessee"; ask which body issued the certification. Ask about prices, program lengths and class schedules.