Private Dog Behavior Training in Southeastern Wisconsin
Rogue Dog Training provides professional behavior modification dog training for owners across Southeastern Wisconsin. Private, in-home sessions focus on correcting difficult behavioral patterns through reward-based training and proven behavioral adjustment techniques. Every training session is led by an APDT member and ABC-certified trainer Steve Terwilliger, who works with dogs experiencing a wide range of behavioral challenges. With the right guidance and consistent training, dogs learn healthier responses to triggers and develop reliable, calm behavior.
Behavior modification dog training addresses unwanted behaviors by identifying their underlying triggers. Instead of focusing on basic commands, behavior-focused training covers emotional responses, impulse control and environmental reactions. Through structured exercises, positive reinforcement and appropriate correction, dogs learn new behaviors to replace destructive or reactive habits.
Behavior modification can help dogs who struggle with anxiety, aggression, overstimulation, fear responses or compulsive habits. Our training helps dogs build confidence while teaching owners practical techniques for guiding behavior at home and in everyday situations.
What Dog Breeds Can Benefit from Behavior Modification Training?
Behavior modification training can help dogs of all breeds, ages and temperaments replace unwanted habits with calmer, healthier responses. Rogue Dog Training creates private, in-home behavior training plans based on each dog’s triggers, history and home environment. We work with many popular breeds, including:
Poodles
Labradors
Rottweilers
German Shepherds
Dobermans
Golden Retrievers
Mixes
Doodles
Common Behavioral Issues We Help Correct
Rogue Dog Training works with a wide range of behavior challenges using structured training plans designed for each dog’s needs.
Resource Guarding Resource guarding occurs when a dog protects food, toys or other valued items. Training focuses on building trust and teaching calm responses around valued resources.
Destructive Behaviors Chewing furniture, digging or destroying household items often stems from anxiety, boredom or frustration. Behavior training redirects energy into productive behaviors.
Excessive Barking Dogs bark for many reasons, including excitement, fear or territorial reactions. Training teaches dogs how to remain calm around triggers.
Obsessive Licking or Over Grooming Compulsive licking or grooming may develop from anxiety or stress. Behavior modification helps dogs develop healthier coping behaviors.
Eating Unsafe or Non-Food Items Some dogs develop habits of eating inappropriate objects. Training focuses on impulse control and redirection to safer behaviors.
Reactivity to Cars, Bikes, TVs or Environmental Stimuli Some dogs react strongly to moving objects or visual triggers. Behavior training helps reduce overstimulation and teaches dogs how to remain relaxed around distractions.
Fear and Phobias Fear responses may develop around noises, unfamiliar environments or new people. Behavior modification helps dogs build confidence through gradual exposure and positive reinforcement.
Impulse Control and Social Behavior Challenges Dogs who struggle with impulse control may jump, lunge or react unpredictably around people or other animals. Impulse control and social behavior training focuses on calm decision-making and improved social behavior.
Private Behavior Modification Training Sessions
Private dog training behavior modification sessions allow training to occur in the environment where most behavioral problems happen: your home. One-on-one instruction allows the trainer to observe the dog’s behavior directly and create a plan tailored to the situation. Each session includes hands-on training, owner coaching and clear exercises designed to help dogs develop better habits.
Reward-Based and Balanced Behavior Adjustment Training
Dogs learn best through positive reinforcement. Reward-based and Balanced behavior adjustment training encourages dogs to repeat calm, correct behaviors by associating them with positive outcomes. Rogue Dog Training uses reward-based training techniques to create lasting behavioral changes. This approach helps dogs develop confidence while strengthening communication between the dog and the owner.
Benefits of In-Home Behavior Modification Training
Training within the home environment offers several advantages for behavior modification. Dogs feel more comfortable in familiar surroundings, which allows trainers to address behaviors exactly where they occur. In-home sessions also allow owners to participate directly in training exercises, helping them develop the skills needed to guide their dog’s behavior between sessions and long after sessions end.\
When a Veterinary Behaviorist May Be Recommended
Some severe behavioral conditions require medical or clinical evaluation. In situations involving extreme behavioral disorders or aggression toward children, consultation with a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist may be recommended.
Dog Behavior Training in Southeastern Wisconsin
Rogue Dog Training provides private dog behavior training throughout Southeastern Wisconsin. We train dogs from Brookfield, Brown Deer, Cedarburg, Cudahy, Dousman, Franklin, Hartland, Menomonee Falls, Mequon, Milwaukee, Mukwonago, Muskego, New Berlin, Oak Creek, Oconomowoc, Sussex, Slinger, Waukesha, West Allis, Whitefish Bay and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Behavior Modification Dog Training
What is behavior modification training for dogs? Behavior modification training helps dogs replace unwanted behaviors with healthier responses. Trainers identify triggers behind the behavior and use structured exercises with positive reinforcement and appropriate correction to teach better habits.
Can behavior modification help aggressive dogs? Behavior modification can help dogs who show reactive or aggressive behavior by teaching calm responses to triggers. Training focuses on impulse control, confidence building and safer behavioral patterns.
How long does behavior modification training take? Training length varies based on the dog’s history, triggers and consistent practice. Some behaviors improve quickly while others require ongoing reinforcement and structured training.
Is behavior modification different from obedience training? Yes. Obedience training teaches commands such as sit, stay or come. Behavior modification focuses on correcting behavioral issues such as fear, anxiety, reactivity or destructive habits.
Do you work with dogs who have bite histories? Rogue Dog Training may work with dogs with bite histories, depending on the situation. Cases involving aggression toward children are typically referred to veterinary behavior specialists for further evaluation.
Steve Terwilliger
ABCDT-Certified, APDT Member
Meet Your Trainer
Steve Terwilliger is an ABCDT-certified dog trainer, professional APDT member and psychology graduate with extensive knowledge of animal learning and behavior. His background in classical conditioning, operant conditioning and hands-on kennel management helps him understand why dogs behave a certain way and how to create lasting improvements.
Steve uses reward-based training built around praise, treats and play. Through private, in-home lessons, he helps local dogs of all ages develop stronger obedience skills and overcome concerns such as barking, bolting, fear, shyness, reactivity and aggression.
Milwaukee Dog Training Class Reviews
Adriana F. — Sep 16, 2026
Steve was amazing and helped solve our issues with our two dogs
Mia E. — Aug 24, 2026
This was the easiest review to write ever. My husband and I cannot recommend Steve at Rogue Dog Training highly enough! He changed our lives. He has helped us through so many stages with our German shepherd/pit mix Julio: from teaching and reinforcin...
This was the easiest review to write ever. My husband and I cannot recommend Steve at Rogue Dog Training highly enough! He changed our lives. He has helped us through so many stages with our German shepherd/pit mix Julio: from teaching and reinforcing commands like “place,” to working on his reactivity when people come over, and helping us support our anxious boy.
About a year later, we reached out again when we brought our baby home. Julio was extremely reactive and we believe he saw the baby as a new toy. It was a very scary and overwhelming thing to manage along with a newborn. Julio would completely freak out whenever the baby cried and even put his mouth on him once.he was far too inappropriately interested. With Steve’s guidance on desensitization, Julio has made an incredible transformation. He now absolutely loves our baby, wants to be near him, and interacts with him appropriately and affectionately. He now sees our baby as part of his family. It’s hard to believe how far he has come!
We are so grateful for Steve’s expertise and would recommend Rogue Dog Training to ANYONE. Again, it changed our lives. When we adopted Julio, we made a commitment to give him the best chance at life. Hiring on dog training is the perfect example of putting that into practice!
Leanna T. — Aug 8, 2026
Steve was phenomenal to work with! We brought Steve in after traditional training (around other dogs) did not work for our very leash anxious dog. Through traditional training she learned to walk on a leash better but was still very reactive to dogs ...
Steve was phenomenal to work with! We brought Steve in after traditional training (around other dogs) did not work for our very leash anxious dog. Through traditional training she learned to walk on a leash better but was still very reactive to dogs as we passed, even when given plenty of space. Additionally, it became harder to let people into our home as she would become more protective of me as they entered the house past the entryway. She also barked at everything that came past our house, dogs, delivery trucks, strange men, etc.
Steve is the exact person she would react to, male, bearded and wearing a hat. But he knew exactly how to greet her with some treats and did not even go past our entryway on the first session. He won her over and she was happy to see him after that.
Over just 5 sessions, with the help of his amazing dog, we were able to walk past other dogs without our dog lunging and barking incessantly at other dogs, even when the other dog barks. She still barks out the window but when given her command, she stops. When guests come to our door she listens to our command to not bark, sits at the door and greets people happily, which is important as we have lots of kids knocking at our door.
Steve was flexible with our schedule, extremely kind and friendly, explained very well why she has these behaviors and why we were doing what we did. I highly recommend him and will certainly be using him for any future training needs!
Brianna F. — Jul 20, 2026
Steve did a phenomenal job with our dog, Jasmine. He helped us generalize "leave-it" for distractions and to re-agin her attention. This simple command has transformed our walks when we pass other dogs/animals! Steve also helped with recall which we ...
Steve did a phenomenal job with our dog, Jasmine. He helped us generalize "leave-it" for distractions and to re-agin her attention. This simple command has transformed our walks when we pass other dogs/animals! Steve also helped with recall which we use daily in our yard. Jasmine now comes to us using the command just once. His training was straightforward and effective. I would recommend Steve to anyone who is looking for a dog trainer in the area!
Katie M. — Jul 12, 2026
We can't say enough good things about Steve! He came highly recommended by two of our neighbors, and now we completely understand why. Our puppy wasn't catching on very quickly, but Steve swooped in and completely changed the trajectory. After just o...
We can't say enough good things about Steve! He came highly recommended by two of our neighbors, and now we completely understand why. Our puppy wasn't catching on very quickly, but Steve swooped in and completely changed the trajectory. After just one session she was mostly potty trained, and by the end of the second she had mastered the basics. Steve's techniques were simple, effective, and easy for us to continue at home. Thanks to his guidance, we now have a well-behaved 6-month-old puppy with great habits.
Steve is patient, kind, knowledgeable, and easy to work with - and our puppy absolutely adored him. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anyone!
Tom G. — Feb 15, 2026
Awesome guy highly recommended!
Kris M. — Dec 3, 2025
From Bad, Bad to Great. I was beside myself with our 3 year old Portuguese Water Dog, Leroy Brown, who was getting progressively worse counter surfing, stealing everything he could reach and not giving it up, lunging and barking at other dogs on walk...
From Bad, Bad to Great. I was beside myself with our 3 year old Portuguese Water Dog, Leroy Brown, who was getting progressively worse counter surfing, stealing everything he could reach and not giving it up, lunging and barking at other dogs on walks, and becoming aggressive with my husband and visitors. Steve truly worked miracles and in short order with his knowledge, patience and humor, Steve provided us the tools and techniques needed to change our dog's behavior. Step by step, Leroy Brown was transformed and I truly believe the bad-bad days are behind us forever. I would highly recommend Steve to anyone.
Aidan L. — Nov 7, 2025
Steve was fantastic, I couldn't speak more highly of him and his services. We saw immediate success after just one session, and by the end of our fifth session, he helped us reach all of our training goals. He is an incredibly kind man with a wealth ...
Steve was fantastic, I couldn't speak more highly of him and his services. We saw immediate success after just one session, and by the end of our fifth session, he helped us reach all of our training goals. He is an incredibly kind man with a wealth of knowledge; he was exactly what we needed. If you're in need of a dog trainer, Steve should absolutely be your first call.
Mike G. — Oct 10, 2025
Steve is amazing. He is super knowledgeable and his training works. This was the first time I ever used a dog trainer and I was very grateful to work with Steve. You can tell that he tailors each client to their exact needs, takes the time to always ...
Steve is amazing. He is super knowledgeable and his training works. This was the first time I ever used a dog trainer and I was very grateful to work with Steve. You can tell that he tailors each client to their exact needs, takes the time to always answer questions, and is great at following up and making changes to the plan when necessary. My dog is light years ahead of what she was prior to training thanks to his help. I highly recommend Steve and Rogue Dog Training to anyone.
Jan R. — Oct 3, 2025
Steve is the best! We have learned so much and Sadie loves him! Thanks Uncle Steve!!
Kayla L. — Sep 24, 2025
Steve was awesome, patient, punctual, honest, and kind in helping train my giant dog reactive dog. Thank you Steve!
Marcus S. — Aug 12, 2025
Great program that worked flawlessly. We are finally able to enjoy walks with our pup again. Thanks!!
Alaina F. — Aug 1, 2025
Cannot recommend Rogue Dog Training enough. I’ve worked with Steve on two separate occasions. One round of sessions in summer of 2022 and a second round of sessions this summer. The first round was just general manners, the “leave it” command, and wa...
Cannot recommend Rogue Dog Training enough. I’ve worked with Steve on two separate occasions. One round of sessions in summer of 2022 and a second round of sessions this summer. The first round was just general manners, the “leave it” command, and walking on a leash. Steve was very knowledgeable, and my dog (who is very selective with humans and dogs) absolutely loved him from the jump.
Our second round of training this past summer stemmed from my dog and my mom’s new dog not getting along. I called Steve right away. He got back to me the next day and we got started as soon as our schedules allowed! Now, three months later, my mom’s dog and my dog can be in the same room together.
Steve really talked me off the ledge this summer. He was so optimistic that it would all be fine as long as we did the work. I definitely plan on working with him again for future dogs and/or if my current dog needs anything else.
Thank you, Steve, for all you did for me and Cash!
Kayla N. — Jul 28, 2025
We had recently adopted a one year old pit rescue with anxiety (due to being at a shelter) and didn't know how to go about starting training. We really wanted to get a handle on how to communicate with our dog, crate training, and getting the barking...
We had recently adopted a one year old pit rescue with anxiety (due to being at a shelter) and didn't know how to go about starting training. We really wanted to get a handle on how to communicate with our dog, crate training, and getting the barking under control. Steve was phenomenal to work with for all of what we were seeking. Since we are first time dog owners, we struggled with always trying to do the right thing in correction and establishing routine/boundaries. Steve used a lot of experience, knowledge, and humor to work through basic obedience fairly easily. He was always available for texting through specific situations and working around our dog’s unique issues. Crate training was nearly impossible with the amount of barking/whining our dog was doing before. With the tools and guidance Steve brought, we were able to leave our dog alone in the crate with no problems or concerns in just a few short weeks. Learning the “leave it” command was a huge one for us too. In a few steps and a week of dedicated training, our dog would leave a treat alone right under his nose or take it based on what we commanded. It’s awesome that this training also worked through shifting the visual with and over to auditory learning so you’re not doing movements when trying to get your dogs attention/give command. Steve also guides you through how to be a better dog trainer yourself with tips and suggestions that may help to avoid any unneeded frustrations down the line. Although the 5 session costs seemed pricey at first, I’m so grateful we went through with it because it’s seriously worth the convenience, time, money, and efforts for real, reliable results we needed. Steve’s flexibility, patience, and personable character made the whole training process actually enjoyable instead of a chore. I would 100% recommend Rogue Dog Training to anyone who is serious on creating a path of communication with your dog without giving up in frustration.
Mathew W. — Jul 7, 2025
Steve is an amazing trainer. When he says your dogs behavior can change by the end of his sessions, he means it. Steve is personable, truly cares about your dogs progress, and by the end of the training you feel your confidence grow.
Christine F. — Mar 8, 2025
I highly recommend Steve to all my friends, family, and anyone looking for an attentive, patient, and effective dog trainer. We met with several different companies and trainers before deciding. Steve stands out as a passionate, caring, and knowledge...
I highly recommend Steve to all my friends, family, and anyone looking for an attentive, patient, and effective dog trainer. We met with several different companies and trainers before deciding. Steve stands out as a passionate, caring, and knowledgeable trainer. His communication from day one felt very genuine. It was an easy decision to proceed with him and I am so thankful we did. Our dog was found abandoned, emaciated and had severe signs of abuse and starvation. We needed someone with the experience and knowledge for this reason. She was so fearful of everyone and everything when we first found her abandoned at a rest area. Now with the guidance and training from Steve, she is living her best and fullest life. She now loves meeting strangers and giving kisses to everyone. She gets to come with us everywhere that is dog friendly and she excels and loves the environment. It has built a stronger bond between her and our family and it’s so beautiful to see her blossom into the dog I knew she could be. I can’t thank Steve enough for giving our dog a second chance to live a full happy life.
Tracy H. — Jan 31, 2025
Steve worked with us and our 6 yr old Bullmastiff rescue to stop barking for attention. My husband couldn’t work from home with all of the barking and no matter what we tried on our own, her undesirable barks and whoofs persisted. By the end of our s...
Steve worked with us and our 6 yr old Bullmastiff rescue to stop barking for attention. My husband couldn’t work from home with all of the barking and no matter what we tried on our own, her undesirable barks and whoofs persisted. By the end of our second session, the behavior was fully corrected. Not only is Steve personable, but he’s extraordinary at what he does. If you’re looking for a trainer who really knows his stuff, I highly recommend contacting Rogue Dog Training. We are 1000% pleased with the results!
Tracy G. — Dec 25, 2024
Look no further! No need to compare Rogue to any other private dog trainer out there. Steve is fantastic. We brought our 16wk old rescue puppy home in June. We had limited information on what happened to her before she was initially rescued in Alabam...
Look no further! No need to compare Rogue to any other private dog trainer out there. Steve is fantastic. We brought our 16wk old rescue puppy home in June. We had limited information on what happened to her before she was initially rescued in Alabama. She is the absolute sweetest girl, but she's obviously had some pretty severe trauma. She's on high alert at all times, wary of every noise, person, dog, etc. We did enroll her in STAR shortly after we got her, and don't regret that decision.
However, we knew that she had issues that a group puppy class weren't going to be able to address.
He taught us the "leave it" command and gave instructions on what to practice after our first session. That command is now used for any/all undesirable behavior, etc. He helped us teach her the yard boundaries, gave us so many invaluable tips on many other topics we had questions about. Our dog is also deathly afraid of the garbage truck, and any other loud noises similar to that. While she's still a bit apprehensive, she is no longer cowering in the basement and holding her potty in for 26 hours due to her fear of those scary noises. He also taught us leash manners, which has made my daily walks enjoyable again.
I would advise to not be put off by the cost of the training. It's really only a few dollars more than a private session at a dog training facility, AND, the advantage of having Steve in the dog's environment is priceless.
We have already recommended Steve to several other people. He's wonderful!
Ashley W. — Nov 19, 2024
We are very happy with all of the help we received from Steve! He is a very knowledgeable trainer and helped us overcome hurdles we had with our fear-reactive dog. He introduced training tools that helped redirect our dog’s attention without any fear...
We are very happy with all of the help we received from Steve! He is a very knowledgeable trainer and helped us overcome hurdles we had with our fear-reactive dog. He introduced training tools that helped redirect our dog’s attention without any fear or pain. He was very understanding of our dog’s unique situation and tailored the training to fit his needs. After every visit we were surprised how quickly we saw improvement! Our boy can walk great now without barking at strangers!
Lena J. — Oct 9, 2024
Steve has been the absolute best to work with! I came to Steve with my pitbull, Sweet Potato, who had developed leash reactivity with other dogs. After working with Steve, I can confidently take Sweetie for walks in the neighborhood and on hikes with...
Steve has been the absolute best to work with! I came to Steve with my pitbull, Sweet Potato, who had developed leash reactivity with other dogs. After working with Steve, I can confidently take Sweetie for walks in the neighborhood and on hikes without feeling stressed and can see the noticeable difference in how Sweet Potato can handle being around other dogs. I am so thankful for all of Steve’s advice and could not recommend highly enough! His advice and services are well worth the time and money.
ABC-Certified Dog Trainer in Southeastern Wisconsin
Rogue Dog Training provides effective training programs for dogs of all ages, breeds and sizes. Build a stronger bond with your pup and promote better behavior in the following cities: