(Almost) 10 Questions with: The Freckled Paw

Have a dog who a little out of control, or do you just want the confidence to be able to bring your dog anywhere and know you can maintain control?

Meet Crystal Partain, owner of The Freckled Paw, a certified dog trainer and behavior consultant who has spent nearly two decades helping dogs and their people better understand each other. With experience in veterinary hospitals, shelters and rescues, Crystal brings a thoughtful, science-based approach to her work—and plenty of firsthand experience from living with dogs of her own. We asked her (almost!) 10 questions about dog behavior, training and what she’s learned along the way.

Crystal Partain, owner of The Freckled Paw. Courtesy photo.

1. What’s your favorite part of what you do?

Dog Training encompasses so much more than just the dog. I most look forward to the moment when the pet parent tells me someone has complemented their dog’s behavior or their dog suddenly can do things they could not prior to working with me. This could be walking quietly down the street or not jumping on a guest at the front door. It seems like magic sometimes but it’s just tiny adjustments over time that make a big difference.

2. What one thing you wish every pet parent knew?

In my many many years of working with dogs in many different capacities, I have never met a dog trying to take over the world. Dogs do what works and they do not make decisions based on what might happen hours from now. The idea that you need to be mean to your dog to get them to listen has been disproven over and over again.

3. What is one misconception people have about your business or the work you do?

I’m not sure why people think they need to be mean to their dog to train them. We have a great time during our training sessions. I incorporate lots of praise and attention for both the people and the dogs. Everyone looks forward to their sessions because both the human and the dogs have fun.

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4. If you could have one pet-related superpower, what would it be?

Dr. Doolittle was on to something. For the most part, I can tease out what’s going on under the surface with most behavior challenges. There have been a few through the years where I wish I could ask them “What’s going on with you?”

5. If you could spend a day with any animal—real or fictional—which would you choose?

I think hanging out with Bluey and family would be a real treat! I have a cattle dog but they are not the same.

6. What’s one thing you’d banish from the pet world forever?

Puppy mills! I have worked in this industry for long enough to know the unfortunate outcome for these puppies, the parents who are stuck in kennels breeding, and the people who end up with a puppy who has serious health and behavior problems. If you are looking for a puppy, please reach out to learn how to find an ethically bred puppy who will offer a lifetime of companionship and avoid potential heartache.

7. Is there a pet that completely stole your heart?

There are so many! More often I find really meaningful relationships with the human half of the team. These people come to me wanting to do the very best for their dog and they work so very hard to accomplish their goals. Over our time working together we get little glimpses of what our world outside of dog training looks like and sometimes a friendship develops. I still have a handful of clients who have moved away and send me holiday cards or updates about their lives. That really drives home why I do this job.

8. If someone is thinking about services, what advice would you give them?

Even if you are not sure what you need, reach out and chat. We are pretty good at determining what would make your life easier and the most effective way to reach your goals. You will start by scheduling a phone consultation and filling out an intake form, so we have the information we need before we speak. We have quite a few programs to match your needs and as we finish moving into our new space on Granby Street in Norfolk, we will have even more options available. 

Want to get in touch with The Freckled Paw? Visit their website and fill out the contact form.

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