Where Behavior Meets Adventure

Because a good life for your dog shouldn't feel out of reach.

Two black and brown dogs lying on a large stone in an open grassy field on a cloudy day.

Does this sound like your dog?

Big feelings. Reactive outbursts. Struggles in traditional training settings.

You’re not alone, and your dog isn’t broken.

At Freedom Found, we help dogs and their humans move beyond frustration and into connection, trust, and freedom.

Whether it’s individualized behavior consulting, immersive board and train support, or off-leash adventures tailored for sensitive souls, we meet dogs exactly where they are and help them grow into who they’re meant to be.

Located in McHenry, IL, Freedom Found specializes in working with reactive and sensitive dogs. If your dog barks and lunges on walks, feels overwhelmed by new people, or just isn’t thriving, we’re here to help you both rediscover what’s possible.

What We Do

A woman with a gray hoodie and black pants standing on green grass, holding a black dog on a red leash during daytime with trees and a blue sky in the background.

Behavior Services

Two dogs sitting on an indoor floor, one brown and white with a turquoise leash, and the other black with a purple collar, in front of purple furniture.

Consults, follow-up coaching, and immersive training retreats for dogs with big feelings.

Start with a behavior consult and build a plan that fits your dog’s needs.

Behavior Boarding

Overnight care in a quiet, one-dog-at-a-time home environment.

Built for reactive, anxious, or sensitive dogs who need structure, not chaos.


A calm, behavior-informed alternative to traditional boarding.

Three dogs standing on a large rock formation in a green outdoor landscape with rolling hills and grass.

Adventure Hikes

Enrichment-based trail outings for dogs who need movement, sniffing, and fulfillment beyond the backyard.

Structured hikes led by a behavior professional.

Real Results, Real Relationships

  • “In just a couple of months, my dog has made some wonderful strides. He is more relaxed, more playful, more affectionate, and better behaved.”

  • “Liz has helped us connect and have a better relationship... even people who didn’t know we were taking classes noticed how much calmer and more engaged my dog became.”

  • “Liz approaches dogs (and their humans) with kindness, humor, and expertise. They have changed our relationship with our dog for the better.”

  • “Super supportive, super helpful, and made a huge difference with my dog’s leash reactivity... She provides great opportunities for connection and continued support after class.”

  • “Liz really meets you and your dog where you are and works with you specifically... I’ve told every dog person I know about Liz.”

A woman with glasses and a black t-shirt standing beside a large dog on a leash. They are outdoors near a red car.

Meet Your Dog’s New Best Friend.

Liz Vanderhoef is a licensed Family Dog Mediator and full-time behavior consultant who specializes in reactivity, sport dogs, and misunderstood behavior. She's the proud human of three German Shepherds and is known for combining humor, heart, and serious science in her work.

Not sure what service fits your dog best?

Send me a message! I’ll ask a few questions and help you figure out what’s the best first step.