Tucker Pup's Dog Activity Center

Our Services > Training > Instructor

Debbie Bickford

Debbie is one of the premier trainers in Chicago. Her knowledge of dogs is unsurpassed, and her classes are well-known for being very lively, energetic, fun, and thought-provoking.

She has helped over 5,000 pet parents train their dogs in the last six years in Chicago. Most of her current students are referrals from past students, Chicago area vets, and rescue organizations.

Debbie received her Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC), with honors, from the San Francisco SPCA Academy for Dog Trainers in 2000. Under the direction of world-renowned trainer and author Jean Donaldson ("The Culture Clash", "Dogs are from Neptune", "Fight", and "Mine"), this school has gained the reputation as the "Harvard for Dog trainers."

Her studies in psychology at Hofstra University (NY), where she earned a four year BA degree, have played an integral part in her understanding of dog behavior and training.

Debbie has been a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) for 6 years. Founded in 1993 by Dr. Ian Dunbar (behaviorist, veterinarian, and author), the APDT is a professional organization of people who are committed to becoming better trainers through education. Membership has grown to over 5,000 trainers worldwide. They offer a unique opportunity for professional networking and sharing of ideas through conferences, membership directory, newsletters, seminars, and daily trainer e-mail discussions.

Debbie is also an official evaluator for the AKC's Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program. She has conducted many CGC evaluations over the years and teaches CGC classes at Tucker Pup's. View more information on the CGC classes.