DarkWood Dog Training, LLC

Meet the Trainer!

My name is Abigail Hyndman and I am a Certified Master Dog Trainer and an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator. I have been training dogs for fun for most of my life and in 2008 I started training them as a career. I love dogs and love showing people what they can accomplish with them. 

Here are just a few of my accomplishments:

*Graduated First in Class in the Master Dog Trainer course at the Tom Rose School for Professional Dog Trainers 
*Attained an AKC Canine Good Citizen award on a puppy after only a week of training
*Attained an AKC Companion Dog Title on my 9 month old male German Shorthaired Pointer with 3 straight qualifying scores with one 1st place and two 2nds
*Attained an AKC Beginner Novice Title on my 8.5 month old German Shepherd Dog with 3 straight qualifying scores. 
*Attained an AKC Rally Novice Title on my 8 month old Labrador Retriever with 3 straight qualifying scores. 
*Attained an AKC Beginner Novice Title on my 10.5 month old Labrador Retriever with 3 straight qualifying scores.
*Trained a dog to the AKC Utility level in 9 weeks
*Trained a dog to a IPO 3 level
*Attained multiple placements and AKC titles on client dogs


My methodology is simple: I utilize the training style that works best for my client and the dog I'm working with. I'm not a trainer that believes there is ONE method that works for ALL dogs; all dogs are different and it is important that we recognize that what might have worked for Fido, might not work for Buddy. I use positive reinforcement in the form of praise (physical and verbal), food, and toys as well as negative reinforcement in the form of training collars and verbal corrections when appropriate. I believe in a balanced approach to dog training; I want the dog to be happy and working with me rather than just for me. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me!