Our in home session went amazing. I am already seeing a difference in my dogs behavior! Also the assurance that I can reach out to Montana with any questions gives me the confidence to keep up with the work and training as I go along. read more

Montana is great. she came to our house to help use with our 2 cairn terriers. they put terror in terriers. my husband is 78 with physical challenges. Montana was able to taylor the training exercises to accommodate his needs. Montana is extremely knowledgeable and appropriate in the handling of our spoiled terriers. we had success after just the first class. I would recommend her highly read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

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Extraordinarily professional and clearly knowledgeable, the owner, Montana, will make each client feel as though they are receiving the individual guidance they need even in a group class. Like many people during Covid-19, we finally found ourselves with the opportunity to adopt a dog from a local rescue, after several months of deliberation. Per the recommendation of the rescue, we signed up for a group class and quickly realized our 4yo/58lb/ Pointer Mix wasn't ready for a group setting due to her anxiety around other dogs. After I sent a long-winded e-mail unsure about what to do, I received a prompt call from Montana, who calmly addressed our concerns and offered to do a house call. We live in the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago, and the Big Sky classes were being held in Winnetka, 30 minutes away. Without batting an eyelash, Montana was in our home the following day, arriving 15 minutes early and ready to hear our worries and concerns. My boyfriend and I felt relieved to hear her perspective and observations, and couldn't believe how fortunate we had been to have her as our trainer. As a note: The reason we were so impressed was due to her accessibility and a clear dedication to doing what is best for the dog. We had signed up for her 6-week Dog Obedience Basics (only 6 dogs per group, masks required) in Winnetka for approx. $180, and she charged us "only for gas" for the 1-hour house call. Prior to meeting her for 1 class, we had no relationship with her or experience with many trainers as several of the "premier" places in Chicago were booked. We were essentially strangers to her, and yet we felt like we received personal, premium care and service. Montana has set the bar high for our Dog Trainer expectations. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated professional, there's no reason not to call Big Sky Dog Training first. If you need more convincing, just remember that whatever you decide, in Montana's own words, "the needs of the dog comes first." read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Our very sweet rescue dog, Marcy, a 4yo, 58lb Pointer/Mix - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

Montana was a great help when I adopted Milo. She gave me lots of great advice and made me feel confident in raising Milo. I had the private session as well as basic training class with her. The private session helped me in terms of adjusting Milo at home and walking him around the neighborhood. Group training was good in terms of Milo exposure to other dog and basic obedience lesson. read more

Maybe good for you, but not for me After I registered, my dog was scheduled for a minor surgical procedure (skin biopsy). I considered cancelling, but I didn't think the fee was refundable. The adult obedience class I registered my dog for was not full, so Montana asked if we could just be part of the puppy class. I should have said no, but I reluctantly agreed. I followed Montana's recommendations for treats--turkey hotdogs cut into pieces--and a leash with no keys or poop bag holders attached. In class, Montana was extremely concerned about my dog's "major surgery," She also told me that the hot dogs weren't attractive enough to my dog. My dog did not participate in free play. We were told to wait in the hall. I finally decided to come back in, and asked, "You forgot us, didn't you?" She said "No." During training Montana directed us not to put our hands through the loop handle on the leash because it could cause a shoulder injury. After class my dog's leash slipped out of my hand, and my dog raced through the rather large building for several minutes. The next few classes are a blur. Two were cancelled--for very good reasons--and the training calendar was extended by 2 weeks. (Class 2?) Montana suggested that I replace my $50 Blue 9 harness with one that gave me more control, and she offered to loan me the harness. I bought one because it's padded and reflective although it doesn't fit as well. My dog mastered several of the training exercises easily, I struggled with some of them. That's on me. Montana emailed, "We will make ... up [the two missed classes at] the same time, 12:30 p.m." Our class had been meeting at noon. When I arrive at 12:30 I see that the 2 remaining dogs from the 6 that started the class had arrived at 12:00. That's the last straw. I'm not going back. read more

Big Sky Dog Training - 2-year-old foxhound mix - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

We just adopted a 3 month old puppy. While we have been looking for quite some time, when all went through all of a sudden we had a dog, with SO MANY QUESTIONS - about feeding, about how to handle biting, products, how to handle first nights, crating. Montana was very relaxed and knowledgeable - sitting with us in our living room for a long and relaxed conversation as we raised all our questions, with teaching moments arising throughout the visit. Then we had a nice training session in the back yard going over how to do basic commands and support potty training. Very helpful to have this skilled and relaxed person come to our house the day after adoption, so that we could jump start the learning process and avoid getting into bad habits. read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

I finally got a puppy and immediately signed us up for group classes with Montana Hayes. She is very professional and patient with us (dogs and people) and we learned a lot in the puppy class. I'll continue to take classes with her so I have a well-behaved dog. read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

Montana was very helpful, knowledgeable, and kind during our initial training session. She really understands dogs and gave me great tips for understanding and adjusting my puppy's behavior. She came with booklets, articles, etc, and specific training techniques tailored for our specific needs. I'd highly recommend Montana! read more

With my 7 year old rescue dog, I attended Montana's dog obedience class. It was focused on the basics. She helps each team individually according to the need. She brings equipment to demonstrate. Above all she works hard to help the dog and owner solve specific issues. I also hired Montana privately to help with excessive dog barking. She had good, common sense ideas. She is willing to consult by phone. I highly recommend Montana and Big Sky Dog Training. My son's family is on the way to adopting a puppy and I will recommend Montana to them read more

Montana really knows her stuff. Everything about dogs from food to sleep, training, training, training. Behavior, kindness, cues, understanding, what to do, what to avoid read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Hannah (R), Petunia (L), our three-year-old Boston. Not only did Montana help raise Petunia,but also gave us tips on interactions between. - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

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After adopting a puppy from Lambs Farm we given information about dog training with Montana who works with a lot of the Wright-Way Rescue dogs (Wright-Way is associated with Lambs Farm dogs for adoption). Montana was fantastic in many ways: 1). She replied to my emails and spoke to me on the phone to answer all my questions and offer suggestions before class starts. Very accessible. 2). She is very attentive to each dog/puppy/person in class. 3). She brings so many items with her to help all the participants in class, if you think you may need a harness versus a collar she may have one for you to try. 4). She is full of suggestions if one thing is not working. 5). Her style is great. I highly recommend Montana and Big Sky Dog Training. She cares. If you don't work with your dog or puppy outside of class, then you will have a longer road. read more

Montana was wonderful in helping us with our puppy, Tucker. She went above and beyond the curriculum and had such a special relationship with every dog and owner in the class. We're amazed at what we and our dog have all learned in such a short period of time. She definitely helped us foster a good relationship with our dog and we're so grateful. Highly recommend Montana! read more

Montana is amazing. I am disabled and I'm training my own service dog. He's now a 70lb Aussie and very strong. I have limited mobility in my arms and no hand strength. I could not keep Potato from pulling me down the street. I couldn't find a head halter that my fingers could work but Montana had one. Now I can walk Potato with two fingers! It's like magic! She's extremely kind and easy to work with. She is flexible with time and responds to emails, texts, and calls very quickly. She doesn't lock you into any contracts or number of sessions and her fee is very reasonable. I recommend her to everyone at my dog park! read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Potato - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

We needed a refreshing as pet owners and getting our last puppy who's 7 months old. Was quick to respond to my outreach and was on time with her bag of tricks. As we talked she could see how my boys a 16 yr old a 2 year old and the 7 month, all Papillion's, interact before we went over our wish list. Montana, went one by one with our list showing us new tips as reminders of past tips with the older boys. The time went quick said to call her with any questions. It must have made my boys think because after she left they were knocked out rest of the night. Would recommend for all beginners and previous owners she was able to give again great new tips and reminded us of past tips we had used in the past. read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Our 7 month old always seemed to be laughing at us. - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

Montana is wonderful she uses positive reinforcement to train your dog. I have a very active GSP, and she got his attention and taught him several commands in one private session. It was well worth the money and time. read more

She came over on LABOR DAY to work with my year and a half old pitbull. Montana replied to my yelp request first thing in the morning. Got on the phone and listened very carefully to my needs. One thing I will always remember about her is instead of trying to squeeze more money and sessions out of me... she told me that I had already done a great job with my dog and even suggested cutting our session a little short for a discounted price. That type of honesty is rare. What earned this review was her honesty, and the millions of helpful training sheets she emailed me after our session. She also added that I can call her for advice at any time without the worry about being charged. Montana made a great first impression. Now time to put her advice to use. read more

Montana was great with our dog Maggie and is always super informative! She is easily accessible and has a clear, nonjudgmental training approach. I feel very supported when trying to navigate different problems as my puppy enters new stages of life. Great experience! read more

Montana provided very practical and positive approaches to working with our dogs. She has a wealth of experience and also "interpreted" our dogs' actions to alert us to what their behavior indicated (which was not always obvious to us.) She also recommended collars and leashes that helped us manage them better. J. Cook read more

Montana was a very knowledgeable trainer using positive reinforcement. She came to our house and addressed all our concerns. She spent a lot of time with us at a reasonable rate. She also provided booklets and emailed articles covering issues we were struggling with our puppy. I would highly recommend her service. read more

I attended both the puppy and basic group classes early 2022 and found Montana to be a knowledgeable instructor. Besides plenty of useful information, emails, and her dog ownership experience, Montana gave us an opportunity to practice in a class setting all the information she gave us, including socialization with other dogs and people. The key here is the owner needs to be consistent and practice all the time with the commands and socialization of your dog and not say it is the instructor's fault if your dog does not do well out of the class setting. These classes are not for dogs that are aggressive or constantly barking as this distracts from the lesson. read more

I have been taking my dog to training for 3 weeks now but wish I had gotten the refund after the first session. You can start going whenever you want, which means all the dogs are on different levels and are (or at least should be) learning different things. Classes have absolutely no structure and don't start on time. Last class Montana had the dogs put their paws on yoga ball things to purportedly strengthen their core then had them play. My pup definitely didn't learn anything that class. I have no doubt Montana knows how to train dogs, I just don't think she is able to do it in a group environment. read more

Montana is wonderful with dogs. I like her treat base training. My dog just loves her! She does group traning to private trainings. CGC certifications and more. Will continue further training with her and I highly recommend her for any new dog owners!!!! read more

Fantastic! After adopting a rescue dog who lived on the street the need to incorporate him with my other dogs was imperative. Montana came to my house right away and is helping us through many issues. There is not a time I have tried to contact her that she has not answered the phone and answered my many questions, plus coming to our house right away to help with the issues. She is very very knowledgeable on all aspects of training. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a great dog trainer. She is always there to help you help your furry babies. read more

I never used a dog trainer with my first dog, but I just recently rescued/adopted a young 2yr old yellow lab. I realized I needed some help and advice really quick. I Googled local dog trainers near and Montana's name and business came up immediately. I can see why. She is not just great at her job, but her passion and love for dogs is beyond words can say. I met Montana at my home with my dog for a one-on-one session. Her knowledge with dogs and her advice was welcoming and helpful, especially one suggestion on walking my dog. It has helped tremendously and has changed his walking with me. Who knew that a little black strap/collar along the nose would make such a significant change and especially with a 75lb Lab. Thank you so very much Montana. I can't thank you enough. Riggs and I are making progress each day read more

While I do agree with Sebastian's comments that this type of dog training isn't for every dog, my dog is one of them that Montana was able to help almost instantly. The best way to describe Montana's training style is "tough love". She is tough with the dogs (pushing them down when they jump, closing their mouths when they bite), but as a result the dogs are well behaved and when they behave she is the first to reward them. Her methods will work for most dog owners (sadly not Sebastian) and the training manual you receive is invaluable. My dog has had separation anxiety and I had no idea how to begin to train this out of him since my other dog hasn't had that problem. Within one training session at my home, I had an action plan that I will use to let my dog have his independence and allow me to regain my social life. I don't believe in dog whisperers, but if anyone was one it would be Montana (and not that little man on National Geographic). read more

Montana is great! We met her last week for some basic training commands to use with our 2 month old rescue puppy and she was amazing. Dog responded right away. Montana is knowledgeable and caring. She's always available for any questions we have. Highly recommend her. read more

We had an in-home training session and a puppy class for our dogs. Montana gave great instruction and training tips for both our puppy and 4 year old dog. She kindly provided information by phone prior to the lessons and followed up after by emailing training manuals and articles. Very helpful and I highly recommend Big Sky Dog Training. Well worth paying for individual attention vs. group classes. We will be continuing with Montana's training as soon as the Stay-at-Home order is lifted. read more

I recently enrolled my dog in a canine therapy course, but wasn't able to teach her on my own at home what she needed to know to pass the test. With just two weeks left in the course, I called Montana in desperation. In 14 short days, we went from zero to course graduate. Montana was completely flexible with her time and came to our house for lessons. She was patient, consistent, and put every minute of the lesson to useful instruction. She clearly knows how to train a dog, and I especially appreciated her calmness. Thank you so much Montana! read more

Big Sky Dog Training - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois

We had a private session with our 3-year old which was helpful addressing some very specific training needs. It's never too late for a refresher so we signed up for Montana's basic obedience class at Wright-Way Rescue. The class size is small enough that each dog and owner get specific attention. The skill levels of the dogs in our class varied from high-energy Lab, to newly-adopted puppy, to our relatively calm girl. I liked Montana's approach of teaching to the appropriate level for each dog (and human) so we didn't feel like we were stuck in the slow lane, and others were able to spend a bit more time on the basics. We put our new obedience skills to the test only a few days after our last class. Our dog killed a squirrel in the yard, and I was able to get her to "leave it," then "come" to me, and finally "go get" my wife while I was occupied with cleaning up the mess. read more

I have had a great experience working with Montana over the past few weeks! I have one one year-old Cockapoo who had challenges with jumping, ignoring commands, and acting hyper. After calling several other trainers who claimed they couldn't help or wanted us to go to their facility rather than our home, I was frustrated. A friend recommended Montana and I called her that day. Montana was patient, thoughtful, and taught me a lot of tricks which have improved my dog's behavior considerably. I also appreciate her continual phone support in between sessions. Her prices are more than fair and it is clear that she loves what she does. I would recommend her to anyone who is looking to see significant behavioral changes in their pet! read more

We thought the dog training class was a great base for our goldendoodle Oliver. Montana clearly demonstrated each training step, but also asked for feedback if anyone was having issues in order to customize the class so we got the most out of it. She has obviously worked with many dogs, understands dog psychology, and offered many tips and tricks throughout the classes. The reward based system is great too - perfect for small or gentle dogs, or for any dog for that matter. The class size is small so there is an opportunity for personal attention from Montana but also a good opportunity for the dogs to socialize. I think part of training has to be how the dogs interact with each other and general distractions, so this training class was perfect in every way. The location and time were very convenient for us. Overall, this class is worth the investment in your dog! read more

DO NOT USE HER SERVICE EVER!!!!! She really can't control dogs. Very incompetent , never on time or at the day you set up. Don't pay her up front because if you want to cancel no money back. read more

We used Montana at Big Sky for one-on-one consultations for each of our two dogs soon after we got them and occasionally since. She was prompt, personable, and flexible in scheduling. Most of her work was really training for me and my adult special-needs daughter, because we had never had a dog before. Montana gave us some valuable guidelines about how to care for and communicate with the dogs both verbally and non-verbally. One of the dogs was a rescue dog. He was very anxious, to the point that he couldn't bond with us, and Montana helped us learn ways to calm him, so much so that he has now bonded well and will obey in exchange for our approval (okay, and treats)! Montana is really something of a therapist for dogs! We were really pleased and thought her input was worth the cost. I also found her to be unfazed in working with my daughter, something not everyone is able to do. Many many thanks! read more

Montana was available and came prepared. She is great with communication in person and via email. She is flexible with our schedule. Most importantly, our dog loved her right away. You can tell from the moment she walks in the door that she knows what to do in every unique circumstance. She trains dogs with kindness. She is warm and has a calming presence. Best investment ever! read more

Montana is a very skilled and understanding trainer. She really knows her stuff and my dog really benefited from her expertise. I highly recommend the training program and her advice. read more

Montana was a great help. Super friendly and full of good positive training techniques. We will work with her again. Thanks

Montana was incredibly helpful. She did an in-home visit to walk us through how to manage certain behaviors and the most effective ways to train our lab-border mix puppy. We will definitely be signing up for her puppy classes and highly recommend her services! She kept things simple, straightforward and focused on building a good relationship with the dog taking a leadership approach. read more

I am so glad I called Montana before bringing our new puppy home! She provided us a wealth of information and has been an unending resource, remaining on call for as questions and concerns arise in these first few weeks. We're gonna make it... with her help! She has a very special purpose, and I am so grateful I found her. read more

8/30/2012 Montana is a terrific trainer and a very compassionate person. Our recently acquired 3 yr. old Bernese Mountain Dog was emotionally deprived in his former home and, although house trained and crate trained, had never been a pet. He was reclusive, shy and clearly had no idea of how to be part of a family. With Montana's help, he easily acquired basic commands and is starting to be comfortable in his new environment. Montana also took my husbands' physical problems into consideration as we worked together. Last, but not least, it became very clear that Montana takes the people, as well the dog into consideration during the training time. it was important to her that I could handle the dog in a manner that was best for both of us, rather than insist on doing things that were just not going to work. She gave me "permission" to trust my instincts and THAT'S what worked for us. Kalee G. read more

Let me start by saying, those of you who have not been happy with Montana's services must not be taking her lessons and continuing them at home. For, my puppy Faith (an anxious pup, who I rescued from an Indian Reservation) was out of control! That was, until I found Montana. Montana was wonderful in explaining the difference between an aggressive dog, and an anxious dog. Once it was established that Faith was anxious, she immediately gave me tips on how to help her behavior and get her more used to men (she was abused by males).Montana has restored my faith in Faith. I now have a dog pass for dog parks for her, something I never thought we would be able to do because of her anxiety with other people and dogs. Yet, Montana helped me fix that. I've had 4 private lessons and now Montana and I both feel that it is time to sign up for group lessons, in order to continue Faith's exposure to others. Without Montana, Faith and I wouldn't get to enjoy our, now, calm walks, going to the dog park, and meeting new people who enter my home. Thank you so much & we will see you at our next lesson! read more

Big Sky Dog Training - She's such a good listener now that we have Montana's help! - Pet Training Near Me - Wonder Lake, Illinois