Yorktown-Somers Small Business Spotlight: S.R. Dog Training (2024)

Local Voices

Our small business series shines a light on local business owners in the community.

Posted Thu, Aug 4, 2016 at 9:56 am ET

Small Business Spotlight Questions:

• Business: S.R. Dog Training, LLC
• Owners: Steve Reid
• Website: www.srdogtraining.com
• Address: I am a Somers-based business that provides in-home dog training. I service not only Somers and Yorktown, but also all of Westchester, Putnam and parts of Connecticut.

How did you come up with the name?

S.R. stands for the initials of my name, Steve Reid. I want dog owners to feel reassured that they will be working with the owner of my business and that I take such pride in the quality and service of my work that I want to put my name on it.

Why start a business in this town?

I am a lifetime Somers resident, so I want to keep my business here in order to support my local community. I specialize in at-home dog training, which enables me to provide personalized one-on-one training that is tailored to each dog and their owner’s lifestyle. Most owners struggle with issues that occur in their home or neighborhood, so it’s best to address them in that environment, not a classroom or pet store. In-home training is the most effective and least stressful training option. This is particularly helpful for dogs who are highly distractible (by dogs or people) and easily overexcited.

What business are you in?

I am a professional dog trainer, but I do a lot more than simply teaching obedience commands. I bridge the communication/understanding gap between dog and owner. I help owners understand things from their dog’s perspective and teach them how to effectively communicate with their dog.

What’s the most difficult challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?

My most difficult challenge is with owners who think their dog is “untrainable” and they simply have to deal with their dog’s undesired behavior, and that is simply not the case. No dog is “untrainable.” I start training puppies at 8 weeks old and adult dogs of 5+ years old. I have a very clear system of training that is based on proven dog training principles. This enables me to help owners regardless of their dog’s breed, age, or size. I want owners to understand they no longer have to struggle with their dog, and they can live the happy and stress-free life they have always wanted.

What’s been your proudest achievement since opening?

My proudest achievements are when I see owners no longer struggling with issues that have been plaguing them for years and they thought it is just something “they have to deal with.” I also love when puppy and new dog owners are proactive in starting proper training from the start. They are able to solve common challenges such as housebreaking and obedience training quickly, so they can enjoy their new dog without the worry and hassle that can develop.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

I volunteer weekly at my local humane society and rescue organizations. I encourage anyone who is looking for a new puppy or dog to please visit the terrific animal shelters in both Westchester and Putnam Counties. There are so many amazing dogs looking for a loving home and family to call their own. If anyone needs assistance in choosing a potential dog for their family, please contact me and I will help guide them with this free of charge.

Would you like to see your small business showcased in this series? Email michael.woyton@patch.com.

Photo credit: Courtesy.