Today we’d like to introduce you to Joseph Starr
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Growing up, I always wanted a dog. My dad was very allergic to many things including dogs. I was never able to have a four-legged companion. After college, I made it a priority to bring a dog into my life. I drove 10 hours into the mountains of West Virginia and came home with a long eared bloodhound named Griffey. It was very important to me to build a special bond that was more advanced than the typical dog owner. I would always tell my friends that I was gonna make Griffey the Will Smith “I Am Legend” dog. A loyal, obedient, partner in crime that I could take everywhere. Griffey and I moved to Dallas in 2017.
After some time, my corporate job was no longer fulfilling and when the company was in turmoil I decided it was the best time to switch gears. I had fallen in love with the vast dog community in Dallas and saw an opportunity to use my business degree to fulfill a need for the everyday dog owner. I formed my LLC at Dallas City Hall and dove right in. I started in my immediate community and formed a pack walking service where I would walk 6-8 dogs at a time. Of course, one person walking eight dogs would draw a lot of attention. That allowed me to gain a lot of traction with gaining new clients and very quickly the business grew.
While working with my amazing clients I noticed that there was a disconnect between them and their dogs. That’s when I traveled to California to meet and train with “The Dog Whisperer” Cesar Milan. I immersed myself in his program and the opportunity to work with Cesar one-on-one was incredibly valuable. He taught me the importance of energy, the communication style to coach humans, and the importance of training dogs thru instincts. Overall, his mentorship gave me clarity and I found the missing piece to what my clients needed; Dog psychology. Dog psychology is the training of the mind. Whereas dog training is the training of the body. I quickly came home and started implementing dog psychology on my pack walks and saw immediate positive results. My clients were also very happy as they were getting results at home. I quickly restructured my business to build on this concept through consults and hands on training. We bought a home base in Northwest Dallas and transformed it into the perfect environment for clients to come and feel at home while they train. A sanctuary where dogs can regain their natural form and socialize without distractions.
My business transformed from a dog walking service to a full dog behavior educational program targeting better connection with humans and their beloved canines. We focus on simplifying the relationship with clear lines of communication. We rehab the most severe cases of anxiety, aggression and flight. We offer lifetime support to our graduates with structured boarding and daycare. It’s very fulfilling being able to help clients and work with dogs everyday. Committing to going down this road of dog education is the best decision I’ve ever made.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There hasn’t been high hurdles as much as its been a willingness to stay consistent and not quit. There’s so many bad days where you question if you’re doing it right but consistency and healthy habits get you past that. Tough cases are a challenge but the reward of seeing them succeed make it all worthwhile.
We’ve been impressed with Starr Dog Behavior, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I’m a dog behavior coach. Dog training trains the body (think petsmart training). Dog psychology trains the mind. Dog behavior is the training of both while also coaching the human to be a better pack leader through trust and respect. Many folks love their dogs and would do anything for them. I help them maximize that, I many times can get my clients to take their dogs to places they never would have thought were possible like airplanes and large public areas. The ability to not have to worry about their dog around family and strangers. The capability to coach different humans thru different analogies and teaching styles. It all comes together to being someone they trust to help get them across the finish line. Starr Dog Behavior has over 100+ outstanding reviews and has just won Best in DFW by the Dallas morning news.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Atomic habits
7 habits of highly effective people
Those two books helped me stay consistent thru covid and many other business
Pricing:
- Board and train program 3-weeks, $3600
- in-home consultation $185/hr
- consultation $125/hr
- 6-week puppy class $750
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Starrdogbehavior.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/starrdogbehavior
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@starrdogbehavior
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/starr-dog-behavior-dallas-2
Image Credits
Those are all my images and you can use those no problem. I have more if you would like as well
