Compassionate Dog Training and Behavior Solutions in Philadelphia and Montgomery County
Welcome to Gentle Approach Dog Training LLC
At Gentle Approach Dog Training LLC, Larry Stevenson provides professional, force-free dog training and behavior consulting that prioritizes the well-being of both pets and their families. With over 20 years of experience and a wealth of certifications, Larry specializes in helping dogs and their owners build harmonious relationships through understanding, patience, and humane techniques.
Larry is based in Philadelphia’s Roxborough neighborhood, serving Montgomery County and surrounding areas, including Lafayette Hill, Norristown, and Conshohocken. Whether you’re dealing with obedience training, behavioral issues, or preparing your dog for major life transitions, Larry’s customized approach ensures lasting results.
Why Choose Gentle Approach Dog Training?
Certified Expertise You Can Trust
These credentials, paired with Larry’s ongoing education and hands-on experience, make him one of the most trusted names in dog training in the region.
Larry holds multiple professional certifications, including:
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).
Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.
Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT).
A Proven Force-Free Philosophy
Larry’s methods are grounded in science and compassion:
No shock collars, prong collars, or harsh punishments.
Emphasis on positive reinforcement and clear communication.
Tailored training plans based on your dog’s unique needs and personality.
This approach ensures your dog learns in a supportive environment while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Solving Real-Life Challenges
Larry’s personalized training programs address common and complex issues, including:
Unwanted behaviors such as jumping, barking, and leash pulling.
Fear and anxiety, including separation anxiety and noise sensitivities.
Aggression toward people, other pets, or in specific situations.
Preparing your dog for major life changes, such as new family members or moves.
Comprehensive Dog Training and Behavior Services
Behavior Modification
Using proven techniques, Larry helps dogs overcome challenges that affect their emotional well-being, such as:
Aggression toward other dogs or people.
Anxiety caused by environmental changes or trauma.
Fear-based behaviors, such as avoiding stairs, cars, or unfamiliar situations.
Family Training for Dogs and Children
As a licensed Family Paws Educator, Larry specializes in creating harmony between dogs and families with children. Services include:
Helping dogs adjust to new babies or toddlers.
Teaching children how to safely interact with pets.
Resolving issues such as resource guarding or overexcitement around children.
Obedience Training
Larry ensures dogs of all ages learn important commands and skills, including:
Sit, stay, come, and leave it.
Walking calmly on a leash without pulling.
Proper socialization with other dogs and people.
Virtual Consultations and Assessments
For families who prefer online support, Larry offers virtual training sessions that are comprehensive, interactive, and tailored to your dog’s needs. These sessions provide:
Detailed behavioral evaluations.
Personalized training plans.
Expert guidance from the comfort of your home.
Local Dog Training Services Near You
Service Areas in Philadelphia and Montgomery County
Larry proudly serves a wide range of locations, including:
Roxborough, Germantown, and Mount Airy.
Lafayette Hill, Norristown, and Conshohocken.
Additional areas in Montgomery County upon request.
Interactive video sessions for any location.
By focusing on local neighborhoods, Larry ensures faster response times and a deep understanding of the unique needs of families and dogs in the area.
Virtual Dog Training and Behavior Solutions Anywhere
Gone are the days when effective dog training required in-person sessions. At Gentle Approach Dog Training LLC, we offer virtual consultations and training sessions to bring expert guidance directly to your home—no matter where you live. Whether you're addressing behavioral challenges or teaching obedience skills, our virtual services are designed to deliver the same personalized care and proven results as in-person training.
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1. Convenience at Your Fingertips
Virtual training eliminates the need for travel, saving you time and making it easy to fit training into your busy schedule. All you need is a computer or mobile device with internet access.
2. Expert Guidance From Anywhere
Led by Larry Stevenson, a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), our virtual sessions provide access to top-tier training expertise, regardless of your location.
3. Tailored Solutions for Every Dog
Each virtual session is customized to address your dog’s unique needs and your specific goals. Whether it’s managing anxiety, addressing aggression, or reinforcing obedience, we develop a plan just for you.
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Comprehensive Behavioral Assessments
Larry conducts an in-depth evaluation to understand your dog’s personality, environment, and challenges.
Personalized Training Plans
Receive step-by-step instructions tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring practical and effective solutions.
Interactive, Real-Time Coaching
Learn techniques and get feedback during live video sessions to ensure proper implementation and success.
Ongoing Support
Stay connected with Larry through follow-ups and progress check-ins to refine strategies as needed.
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Families with busy schedules who prefer flexible training times.
Dog owners who live outside the Philadelphia and Montgomery County area but want access to Larry's expertise.
Pet parents dealing with specific behavioral challenges such as anxiety, aggression, or reactivity.
Introducing Larry Stevenson
My name is Larry Stevenson. Having been a volunteer in several animal shelters, I began my professional dog training in 2006 becoming a graduate of Animal Behavior College. I earned my initial certification as an Animal Behavior College-Certified Dog Trainer: ABC-CDT is approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education and is an internationally recognized school.
MEMORIAL TO FRANKIE
MY WONDERFUL FRIEND FOR 14 YEARS
Why Now Is the Right Time to Start Dog Training
Dog behavior issues rarely resolve on their own. Addressing these problems early can prevent them from escalating and create a happier home for both you and your pet. Larry’s Gentle Approach focuses on building trust and understanding, ensuring long-term success for your dog’s training.
LARRY IS RECOMMENDED BY THE FOLLOWING:
In Roxborough
Larry is recommended exclusively by
World Wide Aquarium and Pets
7043 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-482-8700
JUST A FEW OF THE VETS WHO RECOMMEND LARRY
Montgomery County Extended
Metropolitan Veterinary Associates
Dr. Hagar Hauser, DVM
Behavior Medicine Specialist
2626 Van Buren Avenue
Norristown, PA 19403
610-666-1050
Manayunk
The Animedic
Veterinary House Calls and Services
Jennifer M. Jones, VMD
www.THEANIMEDIC.COM
267-495-6867
www.theanimedic.com
Conshohocken
Conshohocken Veterinary Hospital
316 W. Ridge Pike
Conshohocken, PA 19428
Phone: 610-828-7520
Roxborough
Wissahickon Creek Veterinary Hospital
7376 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19128
215-483-9896
www.wcvh.org
Lafayette Hill
Andorra Veterinary Clinic
Andrea Niggemeier, DVM
638 Ridge Pike, Lafayette Hill, PA
610-825-6622
www.andorravet.com
Veterinary Service
Located in Manayunk
Keystone Veterinary Emergency
4026 Main Street
Philadelphia, PA 19127
267-437-2317
Horsham
Horsham Veterinary Hospital
Dr. Amie Balandovich
971 Horsham Road
Horsham, PA 19044
Tel: 215-674-1PET
Email: info@horshamvet.com
www.horshamvet.com
Upper Roxborough
Liberty Vet Clinic
Dr. Caroline Patten, VMD, PhD
8919 Ridge Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19128
(215) 483-1066
www.libvetclinic.com
Mt Airy
Mt Airy Animal Hospital
114 E Mount Airy Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Phone: 215-248-1886
www.mtairyvet.com
Ambler
Steinbach Veterinary Hospital
120 Skippack Pk. PO Box 236
Blue Bell, PA 19422
Phone: 215-646-0462
Emergency Call 215-646-0462 24 hours
www.steinbachvet.com
LARRY RECOMMENDS AND IS RECOMMENDED BY
Ardmore Grooming Station
7 Anderson Avenue
Ardmore, PA 19003
610-645-7500
Email: groomer@adrmoregroomingstation.com
Web Site: www.ardmoregroomingstation.com
Across from the Ardmore Train Station. Bringing you and your pet One of the finest pet grooming boutiques in the area.
Find Your Lost Pet
Send Your Lost Pet's Missing Poster to Shelters, Vets & Volunteers Near You For Free
LARRY’S ACCREDITATIONS
In addition to his Animal Behavior Collage certification ABCDT and certifications as a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, CDBC and Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed, Larry is a professional member of several training, behavioral, presentation and continuing education organizations including . . .
Association of Professional Dog Trainers - APDT
Active member of the
Alliance for Progressive Pet Trainers
APDT Networking Group
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, CDBC
https://iaabc.org/about
Parent Education for expecting families and families with dogs and children. Dog and baby consults and education complimented by FPPE materials.
www.familypaws.com
See articles below
Wall street journal:
https://online.wsj.com/article/SB121237216406536787.html
Martha Stewart LIVING magazine:
https://www.marthastewart.com/904676/prep-your-pet-baby
Family Paws Dog & Baby Connection Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/DogAndBabyConnection
Association of Animal Behavior Professionals
Certified Dog Trainer
AABP-CDT
Animal Behavioral College
Honors Alumni - Certified ABCDT
Truly Dog-Friendly Trainers
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
CCPDT
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
Knowledge Assessed
CPDT-KA
https://www.ccpdt.org/
Professional Member
The Pet Professional Guild
The Association for Force Free Pet Professionals
Professional Member
Animal Behavior Resources Institute Inc.
Behavior Educational Network
Pennsylvania SPCA Partner & Supporter
Contact Larry Stevenson Today
Schedule Your Personalized Training Session
Take the first step toward a better relationship with your dog. Larry’s expertise and compassion can help you and your dog overcome challenges and thrive together.