Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Dog Training & Education in Peoria, IL
Founded in 1997 by Joan Segler with the support of Chuck Summers, Heartland Dog Training & Education Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting responsible dog ownership and strengthening the human-animal bond. Our mission focuses on reducing dog surrenders and euthanasia through comprehensive training programs that address behavioral issues while fostering community awareness. Located on Peoria's Northeast side, our facility features a fully handicap-accessible obedience ring, air-conditioned building, and expansive outdoor training spaces designed for practical skill development. Our all-volunteer staff brings decades of experience in dog training, showing, and title placement, utilizing methods aligned with the AKC Novice Platform.We offer structured classes for puppies and adult dogs, including obedience, intermediate training, and rally, all conducted in small-group settings to ensure personalized attention. Our commitment to community extends beyond training through donations to local causes like St. Jude Midwest Affiliate and Peoria Animal Welfare Shelter. As a non-profit entity, we rely on donations and volunteer contributions to maintain operations and expand our impact. Our programs emphasize creating well-mannered pets that integrate seamlessly into family life, whether for everyday companionship or competitive obedience trials. We welcome prospective participants to observe classes firsthand to determine if our approach aligns with their training goals.
Services
Puppy Training
Obedience Classes
Intermediate Training
Rally Training
Behavioral Development
Community Outreach
Facility Rentals
Volunteer Programs
Pet Education
Non-Profit Services
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- Our volunteer instructors have decades of dog training and showing experience
- We offer small class sizes with personalized attention for each dog-owner pair
- Our facility includes a fully handicap-accessible obedience ring and outdoor training spaces
- Training methods follow the AKC Novice Platform standards for consistent results
- We maintain community partnerships to support responsible pet ownership initiatives
Services
Puppy Training
Structured socialization and basic obedience training for puppies aged 3-6 months. Focuses on leash walking, recall commands, and foundational behaviors through gentle methods. Designed to prevent future behavioral issues through early exposure to various environments and stimuli.
Obedience Classes
Formal obedience instruction for dogs 6 months and older. Teaches leash control, stay commands, and proper behavior in public settings. Builds upon basic skills to develop reliable responses to owner instructions through consistent methodology.
Rally Training
Advanced training combining elements of obedience and agility. Requires completion of beginner and intermediate courses. Focuses on teamwork between handler and dog through sequential command patterns and obstacle navigation.
Behavioral Development
Specialized training addressing specific behavioral issues through personalized instruction. Utilizes positive reinforcement techniques in controlled environments. Designed to resolve problems like excessive barking, leash aggression, and socialization difficulties.
Community Outreach
Non-profit initiatives promoting responsible pet ownership through public education. Includes facility tours, training demonstrations, and partnerships with local animal welfare organizations. Focuses on preventing pet abandonment through behavioral support.
People
Joan Segler
Founder
Established Heartland Dog Training in 1997 with extensive experience in dog training and showing. Continues to guide the organization's mission of responsible pet ownership education.
Chuck Summers
Co-Founder
Provided initial support for the organization's formation. Contributes expertise in canine training methodologies and community engagement strategies.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We follow the AKC Novice Platform standards using positive reinforcement techniques tailored to each dog's learning style.
Are classes available for all dog sizes?
Yes, we offer specialized classes for both small and large breed puppies with appropriate training approaches.
How do I register for classes?
Download application forms from our website, complete with vaccination records, and mail with payment. Walk-in registration available before session start times.
What facilities do you offer?
Our 6818 N. Galena Road location features a handicap-accessible obedience ring, air-conditioned building, and fully fenced outdoor training areas.
Do you offer volunteer opportunities?
Yes, we rely on volunteers for training assistance, facility maintenance, and community outreach programs.
How are class schedules determined?
Classes operate on a first-come, first-served basis with sessions starting at specified dates in our annual schedule.
