Living in San Rafael, it’s easy to see how much the community loves dogs. But even in this pet-friendly city, behavior problems can strain your bond with your pup.
That’s where Justin Kerson, lead trainer at Upwook.com, comes in. With years of experience and a calm, results-focused approach, he helps dog owners across Marin County fix frustrating behaviors and build lasting trust.
Here are the top 5 dog behavior issues Justin sees in San Rafael—and how Upwook’s training programs solve them.
The issue: Many dogs pull or lunge on walks, especially in busy areas like downtown San Rafael or near dog parks.
How Justin helps:
Through Upwook’s structured leash training sessions, dogs learn to walk calmly, even when they’re excited or distracted.
“A good walk should feel relaxing, not like a tug-of-war.” – Justin Kerson
The issue: Some of the dog behavior problems in San Rafael are constant barking at doors, neighbors, or other pets creates stress—especially in apartments or townhomes.
Upwook’s solution:
Justin addresses the root causes of barking and replaces the behavior with calm, focused responses through positive reinforcement techniques.
The issue: Another dog behavior problems in San Rafael is that your dog may jump to greet visitors or family members, which can lead to accidents or discomfort.
Upwook’s approach:
Using impulse control games and reward-based training, Justin helps dogs greet politely without jumping or overwhelming guests.
The issue: If your dog becomes anxious or destructive when left alone, you’re not alone—this is a growing issue post-pandemic.
How Upwook helps:
Justin builds gradual independence through calming routines, crate training, and mental stimulation strategies designed for your dog’s personality.
The issue: Some other dog behavior problems in San Rafael are barking, lunging, or aggressive behavior toward other dogs during walks or park visits.
The solution with Upwook:
Justin focuses on desensitization, distance work, and confidence-building, so your dog can stay calm and responsive—even around other pups.
“My goal is to create harmony between dog and human, not just obedience.” – Justin Kerson
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, we’re here to help. Our professional dog trainers in San Rafael are ready to bring out the best in your pup.
