About the Trainer
Meet Coach Melissa “Parker”
Owner and Trainer
I’m Melissa Parker — but honestly, everyone just calls me Parker. I’m the trainer behind Coachable Canines, and my goal is to help dogs and their people create a relationship built on trust, communication, and positive training.
I can clearly remember getting my first puppy as an adult. I didn’t quite realize what I was getting myself into and quickly became overwhelmed with the daily challenges of managing my personal responsibilities while aspiring to nurture a well-behaved dog. It was hard. Thankfully, I was able to devote the time needed to train and socialize my puppy to flourish as an older dog.
My passion for dogs has always been a driving force in my life, and I’ve cherished the opportunity to train and coach others throughout my time as a college basketball coach. This love for training eventually led me to pursue the Karen Pryor Academy’s Dog Trainer Professional Course. Through this esteemed certification program, I learned how to train dogs using force-free, positive methods, ultimately earning the title of Certified Training Partner.
CERTIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION
Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner
Fear Free Certified Professional
Living and Learning with Animals 2024
Dog Trainer Foundations
Puppy Start Right for Instructors
TAGTeach Foundations
ClickerExpo 2025
ClickerExpo Live 2024
ClickerExpo Live 2023
ClickerExpo Live 2021
University of Illinois Champaign, Urbana
BS - Sport Management
Florida State University
MS - Sport Administration
Training Philosophy
POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT TRAINING METHOD
Imagine what your dog may be hearing as they listen to your voice. Any chance it sounds like a foreign language to them? Often times, you may tell your dog “no” or “stop” but have you built any associations for your dog to understand what you mean?
By using positive reinforcement training I set up a clear communication method with your dog to express the wanted behaviors. Using a clicker or verbal word, we mark your dog at the exact moment that they offer an action you want to see repeated. Once a “click” or verbal word is given, your dog is positively reinforced, usually with a treat, and is more likely to repeat that behavior. Suddenly the noise of your voice can be broken up with a unique sound that is associated with your dog’s positive outcome. This method is based on behavior science that has shown to be a very effective way for dogs to learn and retain information.
Once the associations have been created, you can cue your dog to offer a better behavior rather than the unwanted behaviors you may see. Your dog will become more confident and happy using this method. You’ll find your dog will be willing to try new things without the fear that some other training methods may create. Coachable Canines is committed to force free principles and techniques.
Benefits
Builds trust and respect
Fun for the dog and parent
Promotes creativity
Dogs learn faster
Behaviors are retained
Resources
*American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior
Service Area
In-Home Locations
Coachable Canines is located in Highland Park, IL and serves the following locations:
Bannockburn, IL
Deerfield, IL
Evanston, IL
Glencoe, IL
Glenview, IL
Golf, IL
Highland Park, IL
Highwood, IL
Kenilworth, IL
Lake Forest, IL
Lincolnshire, IL
Northbrook, IL
Northfield, IL
Riverwoods, IL
Skokie, IL
Wilmette, IL
Winnetka, IL
Policies
Training Method
I only use positive reinforcement training methods that are mostly treat based. I do not use any aversive, corrections or punishment. If you have used these methods in the past, it will not be permissible for our training session. I will help guide you to use the new method.
Equipment Needed For A Session
Harness
Flat or plain collar
Leash made of cotton, nylon or leather
Treats in small sizes
Treat Pouch Recommended
Equipment Not Used - if you currently using any of the follow we will work to remove them
Prong collars
Shock collars
Choke chains
Retractable leashes
Cancellations or Rebooking
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required for all cancellations or your session will be forfeited.
Rebooking must occur prior to 24 hours of the appointment.
Payments
Payments must be paid in full prior to or at the first training session. Payments can be made via credit card, Venmo or cash.
Package Policy
Packages expire one year from date of purchase. No refunds can be provided for unused sessions.
Wellness must be current Your dog must be current on all vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian. All puppies must show the start of puppy vaccinations series. Proof of vaccinations is required during the booking process.
Behavior Change Expectations
My goal is to teach you the methods to change the behavior of your dog. In order for to see real change, you must commit to training your dog consistently throughout the week. We will work together to set realistic goals for training. Keep in mind, even a few minutes of training a day can make a big difference.
