Business Details
41 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Expert Dog Training & Behavior Solutions in Lehigh Valley
Since 1985, Marx's MARX'S LEHIGH VALLEY DOG TRAINING CENTER & Behavior has been dedicated to transforming canine behavior through humane, effective methods. Our team of certified animal behaviorists and lead trainers specializes in addressing complex issues such as dog-to-dog and dog-to-human aggression, housebreaking challenges, and service dog certification. We employ a three-step process beginning with a comprehensive assessment, followed by a customized training plan tailored to each dog's unique needs, and ongoing support to ensure lasting results. Our proprietary techniques, including ambassador dog therapy and off-leash training, have successfully rehabilitated even the most difficult cases without the use of shock collars or electronic devices.Recognized as the #1 dog trainer in The Morning Call's Readers Choice Awards for four consecutive years, we combine 37 years of industry experience with a commitment to continuous education. Our services extend beyond basic obedience to include specialized programs for rescue dogs, therapy dog certification, and preparing families for new pet ownership. With a focus on building trust between dogs and their owners, we offer unlimited free follow-up classes and prioritize family involvement in every training session. Featured nationally on ABC, CBS, and WebMD, our reputation for excellence is supported by verifiable client success stories and a proven track record of lasting behavioral transformation.
Services
Puppy Training
Behavioral Modification
Aggressive Behavior Training
Dog-to-Dog Aggression
Dog-to-Human Aggression
Service Dog Training
Therapy Dog Certification
In-Home Training
Off-Leash Training
Leash Manners Training
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- Award-winning puppy training programs since 1985
- No use of shock collars or electronic devices
- Personalized behavior modification plans by certified experts
- 37 years of experience in canine behavior science
- Free unlimited follow-up classes for lifelong support
What people say
Life-changing results
Well-adjusted happy dog
Miracle workers
Excellent trainers
Saved our dog
Services
Service Dog Training
Our ADA-compliant service dog training program develops personalized task skills for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. Using proven methods without electronic collars, we train dogs to assist with medical alerts, mobility support, and emotional regulation. Clients learn to maintain training consistency while public access testing occurs in real-world environments like restaurants and stores.
Aggressive Behavior Modification
Specialized aggression rehabilitation addresses dog-to-dog and dog-to-human issues through controlled ambassador dog interactions. Our three-phase approach begins with safety assessment, followed by structured desensitization, and concludes with owner-led behavior maintenance training in home environments.
Puppy Training Program
Comprehensive puppy development starts at 10 weeks with housebreaking, socialization, and basic obedience. Our lifetime support model includes free follow-up classes covering leash manners, bite inhibition, and environmental confidence building through progressive exposure techniques.
Off-Leash Training
Structured off-leash programs build reliable recall through staged environments. Starting with controlled settings, we gradually introduce distractions while teaching precise heeling and emergency stop commands without electronic containment devices.
In-Home Behavior Training
Customized in-home programs address territorial aggression, separation anxiety, and household integration challenges. Our trainers work within clients' living environments to modify problematic behaviors while teaching sustainable leadership techniques for long-term success.
People
Gwenevere Marx
Owner & Animal Behaviorist
With 37 years of experience, Gwenevere developed proprietary behavior modification techniques featured in WebMD and national TV. She personally trains all lead staff and oversees program development while maintaining hands-on client involvement.
Amber
Lead Trainer
Certified in advanced obedience and aggression rehabilitation, Amber specializes in complex behavior cases. She implements customized training plans while mentoring junior staff in Marx's proven methodologies.
Ashley
Lead Trainer
Specializing in puppy development and socialization programs, Ashley leads group classes and assists with service dog evaluations. Her expertise includes early intervention for fear-based behaviors.
Questions
Do you use shock collars or electronic devices?
No, we exclusively use positive reinforcement and proven behavioral science without electronic containment. Our methods focus on building trust and understanding between dogs and owners.
What service areas do you cover?
We serve Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Reading, and surrounding Pennsylvania counties plus Western New Jersey. Contact us for specific location verification.
Can you help with severe dog aggression?
Yes, our specialized aggression rehabilitation program has successfully modified even level 8/10 aggression cases using controlled ambassador dog interactions and structured behavior plans.
How long does service dog training take?
Basic service dog certification typically requires 12 weeks with our accelerated program. Training duration varies based on individual dog capabilities and required task complexity.
Do you offer in-home training sessions?
Yes, we provide in-home behavior training for territorial issues, separation anxiety, and household integration challenges with follow-up support included.
Reviews (7)
Elizabeth Moy
Apr 06, 2022
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Gwen made me feel like a horrible person and dog owner. Sad for someone who prides themselves as a great trainer
Paul Haitkin
Mar 12, 2022
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I have a Corgi that was reacting to the television and poor leash manners, both issues were resolved quickly. Great effective training.
Tyler Dugan
May 06, 2021
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Before Gwenevere and her classes, we could barely walk our dog down the street due to her extreme fear. She was also fear aggressive towards other dogs which made any progress difficult. We worked with various trainers and made a little progress, but not enough. It's now been a year since we started classes with Gwen and people who knew our dog before are shocked by how much she's changed. We can take her for walks, she's become tolerant of strange dogs, and we now have a new puppy at home. We honestly didn't think that would be possible. Thanks to Gwen and her dogs, our dog now has a much higher quality of life!
Lea Kline
Apr 14, 2021
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We had a 4 month old German Shepherd puppy that was biting and out of control. We were ready to rehome her. Gwen came to the house with her German Shepherds who taught her how to behave. She was there for three hours and explained why this was happening and what to do. We saw an immediate improvement. We attend the Sunday training classes. It is an amazing sight of sometimes 65 dogs with individual needs which are all being addressed. I highly recommend this.
Ann Turoczy
Dec 18, 2020
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Gwenevere Marx is not your typical trainer. We desperately needed help with our aggressive rescue. We lost a senior dog and wanted to add to our pack. It would not be possible if we had not first done some serious rehabilitative work. Gwen gave us the tools to give this dog a better life. She loves going to the group training where there are other dogs like her. We all worked really hard and followed Gwens expertise and were able to add a puppy to our family. I recommend Gwen for your dog training needs. A huge bonus is meeting other dogs and owners.
Jo Ann Emery
May 19, 2020
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We had an appointment today to bring our dog she did not follow through with the appointment and let us know last minute She is way overpriced her initial a valuation is $600 she is very rude to my boyfriend who is a disabled combat veteran we do not suggest her
Lisa Wertman
Jan 22, 2020
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This was the worst dog trainer. She showed up late, and charged $100 for a "training collar" that was nothing more than a choker chain. My poor puppy.
