Meet the Team
"I am committed to helping you and your family develop an ideal relationship with your dog. With trust, patience, and good communication - anything is possible."
Bob van Gorkom is a dog trainer from Chicago, Illinois who has been living in Charleston since 2011.
Bob is a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals, the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, and is certified in dog and pet first aid, including CPR, through the American Red Cross.
Bob received his training through one of the top dog trainers on the east coast, whose lineage includes studying under the former president of the International Association of Canine Professionals, and Martin Deeley, world-renown and internationally respected dog trainer and author, and an inductee into the International Association of Canine Professional's Hall of Fame along side Cesar Milan.
Beginning in 2023, Bob's main role within Happy Dog is to serve it's human clients. Bob is the main point of contact for dog owner's before, during, and after their dog's time in the board and train program.
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In the rare moments he is not working, you can find Bob spending time with his two children, on a local golf course or at Holy City Jiu Jitsu.
My Philosophy
Kind. Clear. Fair.
I believe in kind, clear, and fair communication with our dogs in a way that is meaningful to them. Since your dog has a unique personality your dog's training will be tailored to the methods that work best for them and which they respond most positively.
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By creating a calm, positive, and rewarding environment I keep your dog happy and engaged throughout each day in training.
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Ultimately I believe that dog training is about maximizing both human and canine happiness and quality of life. Dog training makes harmonious communication with your dog not only possible, but real.
Your Dog Trainer For Life
Yes, that's me at the first shelter I volunteered at back in 2010. I am in the business of transformation, and I guarantee that I can help you achieve the relationship you want with your dog. A whole new, happy life awaits!
Your training comes with free support services for the life of your dog. Once I've trained your dog, you have my services available to you for life, at no additional cost. All follow up sessions are included in the cost of the board and train program.
I work with you one-on-one via virtual or in-person meet up until you feel comfortable and confident handling your newly trained dog.
Licensed, Accredited, & Insured. Pet CPR and First Aid Certified.
Member, IACP & Association of Professional Dog Trainers
All Breeds. All Sizes. We work with everything from rescues to service dogs.
We specialize in basic and advanced obedience training.
We believe in harmony between human & dog through communication.
Flexible scheduling.
We work around your availablity.
