Loving local isn’t just about supporting the people who make Medina thrive — it extends to the four-legged companions who call this community home, too. The Dog Wizard is a locally owned, women-run business devoted to helping Medina County dogs (and their humans) live happier, more harmonious lives.
Just over a year ago, owner Jen Hacker took the reins of The Dog Wizard’s Medina location after discovering a deep passion for dog training. What began as a curiosity quickly became a calling, leading her to complete extensive coursework and earn her credentials as a licensed professional trainer. Today, Jen brings patience, expertise and a genuine love for dogs to every session, helping families strengthen their bond with their pets through clear communication, trust and consistency.
Training with The Dog Wizard can be broken down into four simple steps. To begin, all new clients have a free evaluation to assess their dog’s needs and create a personalized plan that fits their lifestyle. Using the information from this evaluation, a customized training plan is put together. Then, the training begins; Choose from in-home, mobile, or facility-based programs designed for lasting results. After the training program is complete, The Dog Wizard provides ongoing support like tools, guidance and follow-ups to maintain progress and reinforce skills at home.
The Dog Wizard's training services are broken down into two categories: obedience and behavior. The obedience training services include:
- Group training: These programs give your dog the chance to build obedience skills while safely socializing with other dogs. The Dog Wizard offers group classes for puppies up to five months old, as well as sessions designed for dogs of all ages. Each class provides an engaging, supportive environment where you and your pup can strengthen your bond while mastering essential commands together.
- Private dog training: For individualized coaching, The Dog Wizard offers custom private sessions. First, Jen will closely observe your dog to understand its habits. Next, she'll establish a training plan made just for them. These private lessons are available at your home or at the Medina facility.
- Board and train: Ideal for busy families that don't have the ability to attend classes, this program allows your dog to receive professional training while being boarded at The Dog Wizard's Medina facility. Board and train programs range from seven to 21 days — choose your time frame and let Jen and her team do their magic.
- American Kennel Club training: This puppy course features practical exercises and engaging activities to nurture a deep owner-pet relationship. After completion of the course, your dog will be a certified AKC S.T.A.R. puppy.
- Specialty training: These courses range from agility training for active dogs, scent detection, therapy prep and baby safety classes. They are open to any breed and any age.
The Dog Wizard's behavior training services are:
- Dog separation anxiety training: The Dog Wizard’s separation anxiety training guides pet owners in helping their dogs build the confidence they need to spend time alone.
- Adopted/rescue dog training: If you’re the proud owner of an adopted or rescue dog, you’ll know that these pets are often accompanied by a unique set of difficulties. The Dog Wizard's training plans are customized for each canine’s personal history and behavioral needs so you can have a confident and well-mannered companion throughout your life together.
- Aggression training: In some cases, your canine friend may show unexpected signs of aggression or be outright aggressive. Despite there being some misconceptions that such behaviors are hardwired, Jen and her team understand that they often arise from fear, stress or lack of proper socialization. Through this training program, she can pinpoint and address the aggression to resolve the issue.
- Problem solving training: If your dog struggles with barking, resource guarding, chewing, jumping, begging, digging, leash pulling, marking or more, Jen and her team can help. Their specialized training for common puppy problems uses positive reinforcement to shape desirable dog conduct.
This list of obedience and behavioral training services is just the beginning. When working with The Dog Wizard, everything is personalized to your dog and future goals.
What's more, is that when your training program ends, you won't be left alone with zero resources. The Dog Wizard understands that learning new skills is just the beginning of any training because reinforcing those skills regularly is just as important as the initial training program. That's why they offer lifetime support for you and your dog. After completing your desired training program, you can attend weekly group classes that reinforce skills, foster socialization and nurture strong bonds.
To learn more about The Dog Wizard and to schedule a free evaluation, visit TheDogWizard.com/locations/us/oh/medina or call 330.590.5460. The Dog Wizard Medina facility is located at 226 N. State Rd.