Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Van Domelen.
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I spent a long time in retail, and I knew it was time for a change—I just had no clue what that change would be.
In the fall of 2015, we made the brilliant pre-holiday-season decision to get a puppy. We were trekking across town for training classes; when class was over, I’d wait until everyone left and I’d ask the dog trainer a bunch of questions. It honestly didn’t click until the last class: wait a second… I could have trained my own dog.
So, I did some research, and I signed up at Animal Behavioral College, kept working my full-time job, and somehow managed to juggle a 50-hour work week through the holiday season, leading into inventory, studying, puppy chaos, and the idea of having a life.
So, I started thinking about what kind of people I wanted to work with and what kind of training I wanted to do.
Then it hit me: Life is chaotic enough — dog training shouldn’t be.
So I decided to offer private training in your home, in your neighborhood, in your real life.
Wear your lounge clothes. Keep your slippers on. Pour yourself a glass of wine if that helps. I fully support that, so we can be comfortable and get down to training your dog.
Around the end of school, I met Doug, who became my mentor and introduced me to the world of problematic behaviors, reactivity, and aggression. It was heavy and really difficult at times. We met a lot of people who were struggling physiologically with their dog’s challenging behavior.
And it completely changed the way I saw dog training.
Looking back, I can laugh at how roundabout the journey was — but it was the best decision I’ve made; I’m happy, and I’m still doing it.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This isn’t so much an obstacle as a daily goal when working with people day to day.
Being a certified dog trainer isn’t just about training dogs— it’s about understanding behavior and reading body language.
Reactivity or aggression is a signal, not a choice.
Let’s use growling as an example. A dog growls and I often hear people say, “I don’t know where that came from” or “that just came out of the blue”.
No, it didn’t. Dogs give us signals before things happen. It’s our job to read those signals and ask.
Why did it happen? What triggered it? How does it affect them physically and mentally? And what can we do to help them change it?
Helping dog owners understand what’s happening under your dog’s hood is very important.
Dogs aren’t “bad” — they’re just misunderstood. And no, your dog is not plotting a hostile takeover the next time you open the refrigerator.
Dogs aren’t giving us attitude — they’re giving us information. And once we learn how to read it, everything changes.
It’s not all about working with the dog. It’s about bringing the dog owner into the inner circle and teaching them what they’re seeing and how to read that.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Bone Worx, LLC?
Hi, I’m Jennifer, founder of Bone Worx, LLC.
I launched the company in 2016 to help people and dogs live better together.
My volunteer work with the Oregon Humane Society and the Pixie Project strengthened my passion for canine behavior, from stubborn sitters to jumpers, nippers, and growlers.
I specialize in problematic behaviors, leash pulling, reactivity, and aggression in dogs. I became a Certified Dog Trainer in 2016 after graduating from Animal Behavior College and joined Doggy Business the same year, leading 4-hour training playgroups with 20–25 dogs.
As a behavioral consultant, I strengthened my skills in reading body language, adapting quickly, and creating personalized training plans.
I also worked with Doug Duncan, MA, CTC, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, on complex cases involving fear, aggression, reactivity, shyness, confidence-building, leash challenges, dog-dog tension, and human-directed fear.
In 2025, I completed the Master’s Course on Aggression in Dogs taught by Michael Shikashio CDBC.
Every service is tailored to you and your dog’s unique needs. Whether your dog is shy, energetic, or somewhere in between, I create practical, fun sessions that support you both—bringing more confidence, peace of mind, and breathing room to your day.
I train dogs kindly and effectively—no e-collars or harsh methods. Using positive reinforcement, I create a calm, cooperative learning environment that builds trust and results.
In 2016, I became a Certified Pet Sitter through Animal Behavioral College.
I stay current through workshops, seminars, conventions, and collaboration with other dog training professionals.
I graduated from the Dog*Tec Dog Walking Academy in 2017, earning my professional dog-walking credentials—yes, it’s a thing.
Today, I walk dogs with leash-pulling, reactivity, and aggression, where every walk involves strategy and tactical leash skills.
For dogs who react to unfamiliar dogs, people, or suspicious lawn ornaments, I help identify triggers, manage reactivity, and guide dogs and owners with compassionate, customized training.
I earned my Dog Bite Prevention Educator certification in 2021, renew my PetTech CPR & First Aid certification yearly, and always carry first-aid and emergency gear.
In 2021, I earned my Canine Enrichment Technician Certification—and yes, I’m an enrichment junkie.
Enrichment supports your dog’s instincts—like sniffing, digging, chasing, problem-solving, and playing—while stimulating their body and mind, reducing stress, building confidence, and even helping with separation anxiety.
Whether your dog is a high-drive herder, scent hound, or anything in between, they thrive when their environment supports who they are.
Best of all, enrichment doesn’t need to be expensive or time-consuming—a cardboard box and treats can go a long way.
Rain or shine, I’m there to keep your dog happy, moving, and cared for.
My flexible schedule fits your busy day.
From couch potatoes to squirrel chasers, Bone Worx helps bring harmony home—one tail wag at a time.
What’s next?
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Pricing:
- Reactivity & Aggression Off Leash Private One on One Training Session. Options to meet once a week or every ten days. Sessions are held in the privacy of your home and neighborhood for your comfort. Starts at $50 an hour All ages of dogs are welcome!
- Problematic Behaviors Training Package. Four 1-hour training sessions available, with options to meet once a week or once every ten days. Sessions are held in the privacy of your home and neighborhood for your comfort. Total cost: $200 All ages of dogs are welcome!
- Reactivity & Aggression On Leash Training Package. Eight 1-hour sessions available, with options to meet once a week or once every ten days. Sessions are held in the privacy of your home and neighborhood for your comfort. Total Cost: $350 All ages of dogs are welcome!
- Dog Walking: 20 minutes Starts at $18, 30 Minutes Starts at $24. 45 Minutes Starts at $28. 60 minutes Starts at $32
- Overnight – in your home Starts at $65
Contact Info:
- Website: https://boneworxllc.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boneworxllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boneworxllc/
