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The Best In Home Dog Trainers in Grand Rapids, MI of 2024

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for In home training in Grand Rapids, MI. Based on feedback and votes from our In home training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the Grand Rapids area.

Jenn Gavin
CPDT-KA, FPPE
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Cadillac, Baldwin, Ludington; Kent County, Ottawa County.
Jenn Gavin, CPDT-KA, FPPE is the owner and founding trainer at A Pleasant Dog. She has been rescuing and training dogs for over twenty-five years. For the last ten years, Jenn has focused her practice on anxious and aggressive animals, and has become one of the most trusted trainers working with aggressive animals in our state. Jenn works extensively with veterinarians and veterinary behavioris...

Kaylee Benjamin
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Kaylee Cook-Benjamin is our licensed veterinary nurse with a passion for training both dogs AND cats!She is a Fear Free Elite certified professional, Certified Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional, and an Accredited Dog Trainer (ADT) with years of experience working in rescue and shelter environments. Kaylee completed an internship with Dr. Jill Sackman of Animal Behavior Consultants of Michiga...

Virginia Brophy
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Gin has a diverse background, but when she adopted her first dog, she discovered her passion and has been training ever since. She has a passion for shaping and confidence building, and loves watching for that moment when it just clicks and the dog starts to figure out what they are learning! Some of her favorite training areas include puppy socialization, leash walking, counter surfing, and do...

Lindsay Carlson
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Lindsay graduated from Central Michigan University in 2009 with her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and Biology. In her degree program, Lindsay studied animal learning and volunteered in a rat and pigeon behavior laboratory, deepening her interest in and knowledge of learning and behavior. After graduation, Lindsay worked in the veterinary field for a few years before leaving to pursue educatio...

Casey DeKam
In home training, Puppy training
Casey DeKam, the owner and trainer, provides safe, effective, gentle dog training for dogs of all breeds and puppies of any age, based on positive reinforcement and proper leadership.After years of fostering rescue dogs and volunteering in local shelters, I one day decided that I COULD do more and I WOULD do more!I could no longer sit back and continue to watch great dogs needlessly suffer thro...

Kellen Dewey
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training
Allow me to introduce myself, my name is Kellen Dewey and I am the proud founder of Kellen's K9s, a positive dog training business located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.A career in dog training has come as no surprise as I have held many positions in the animal care world. From zookeeping, to in-home pet care, to training service dogs for disabled individuals, I have seen it all! After working over...

Roxanne Grady
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Roxanne grew up fascinated with horses and rode religiously for ten years. After her dog Oakley found her, though, her passion for dogs and training emerged. Oakley suffers from anxiety and separation anxiety, which drove Roxanne to study positive reinforcement and science based methodology to help him and others. Through this work she learned that science based methods were the only way she wa...

Erika Gregorian
In home training, Puppy training
Erika is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and graduate of the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training and Behavior. She specializes in herding breeds and dogs with special needs. Erika also teaches Nosework classes (Scent-ology). After managing a very successful dog walking company she sought education and certification to further her service to dogs and those who love them. Through her ...

Nikki Koning
In home training, Puppy training
Nikki got her start teaching basic obedience classes at Petco. Soon after, she began fostering dogs for a local rescue and found great joy in helping her fosters find their forever homes. This led to her learning more about canine behavior and positive training techniques. As a mother Nikki is aware of the challenges that can arise when raising children with dogs, so she became a licensed Fami...

Miriam Kort
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Miriam originally joined us as a client, but her skill in behavior became quickly apparent. Don't let her young age fool you, Miriam is an invaluable member of our behavior and research study teams. She will be starting college at Calvin University soon. Miriam is owned and loved by Bingley, a rough collie, and Othello, a tuxedo cat. In her free time, she enjoys playing cello, walking dogs, an...

Jessica Maxwell
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Jessica grew up in Detroit, but now resides in Muskegon, MI with her husband, Eric, and their St. Bernard, Sir Rutherford the Brave. She has a background in the service industry and has been grooming dogs for the past 10 years. Through her experiences as a dog groomer, she has developed a knack for calming high energy and anxious dogs. Jessica loves all dogs equally, but holds a special place i...

Carrie McIntyre
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Carrie was born and raised in the Detroit area and moved to West Michigan after graduating from Hope College. She's had a passion for dogs since she was young. Carrie loves helping people learn to communicate better with their dog and strengthen their bond, so they too, can experience the joy dogs bring to her. When she's not training, she enjoys spending time with her husband Mike and two Gold...

Pat Parker
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Pat has been around dogs throughout her life. Beginning with training them for her father (a dog breeder) as a child and then teaching her first 4-H class at 15, her experience is varied and well rounded.

Pat has been training dogs in agility since 1996 with her first competitions in 1997. She has titled several dogs in conformation, obedience, and agility. Currently she trains regular...

Alaina Rudin
In home training, Puppy training
Alaina is the owner and dog trainer behind Scallywags Dog Training based in the Grand Rapids, MI area. She loves bringing out the best in client dogs and giving them the tools they need to see progress.

Specializing in puppy and new dog training, Alaina helps new dog owners grow their training skills as they learn to communicate with their dog.

Qualifications
Alaina is cer...

Kaitlyn Shamery
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training
I've always had a deep love for dogs, and that passion prompted me to attend Bergin University of Canine Studies, the only accredited university in the world to offer degrees in cynology (the study of dogs). There I had the privilege of learning directly from Bonnie Bergin, the woman who first created the concept of the mobility service dog. My university courses included a wide range of classe...

Parker Sheffield
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Parker has been working with animals through every possible avenue throughout her life. As a child, Parker frequently volunteered at her local animal shelter, started pet sitting in her teen years, and eventually, worked at a grooming salon before starting her dog training career at Petco in 2016. Parker worked there for just under 8 years and became a mentor at the start of 2020. In 2022, Park...

Kristie Swan
In home training, Puppy training
Kristie was the first trainer in Grand Rapids to be certified through CCPDT. The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers has become the most recognized and respected certifying organization for trainers. She is also a Certified Training Partner with the prestigious Karen Pryor Academy. Kristie is also an evaluator for AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen and Trick Dog. Through f...

Amy TOwnsend
In home training, Puppy training
Amy is a licensed veterinary technician and manual therapist who has loved training animals since elementary school. Her veterinary nursing career spanned spay & neuter clinics, shelter medicine, emergency/ICU nursing, and day practice before she found her niches in behavioral and physical rehabilitation. She enjoys working with pets and their owners to restore physical and emotional well-being...

Rachael VanDyke
In home training, Puppy training
Rachael graduated from Baker College in 2011 with her degree in veterinary technology. She works in small animal practice with a focus on reactive wellness care, pain management and behavior concerns. She is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and a Fear Free certified trainer. Her area of interests are cooperative veterinary care training, group dog training classes and feline beh...

Zach Zeneberg
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
A graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.S. in Ecology, Zach's first exposure to animal training was working with non-releasable wild birds of prey at Leslie Science and Nature Center in Ann Arbor, where he was teaching outdoor education programs. When given the opportunity to become a full time professional animal trainer, he moved to Florida and spent a year presenting free-flighted ...

Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for In home training in Grand Rapids, MI is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For In home training, we received 138 total votes, resulting in 20 dog trainers who focus on In home training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for In home training listed first.

Dog trainers for In home training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Jenn Gavin, who has been voted the top dog trainer for In home training in Grand Rapids, MI. Jenn Gavin’s favorite part of their job is: Helping people understand their dogs so they can improve their lives and enrich the human animal bond..

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Jenn Gavin, as well as the other dog trainers on this In home training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog. Jenn Gavin encourages owners with this dog training tip: Start by addressing your dog's underlying feelings about something before jumping to training obedience..

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See the Best In Home Dog Trainers in Other Cities Near Grand Rapids

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Frequently Asked Questions About In Home Dog Training in Grand Rapids

How can I get in touch with these dog trainers?

Each of the trainer profiles contains a link to their website. You can click through to their website where you can find more contact information.

Are these dog trainers certified professionals?

Each dog trainers certifications are listed in their profile. Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification. However, many private institutions offer certifications. Some of the top certifications in the dog training industry are CPDT- KA, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy - KPA certification, Jean Donaldson's Academy - CTC certification and Fear Free Certification.

What methods do these dog trainers teach?

There are many methods for teaching dogs. All of the trainers included on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. You can see more information in each trainer’s profile regarding their training specialties.

How much do these dog trainers cost?

Dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services. We recommend first picking a trainer that provides the services that you are looking for, then reaching out to them to get up to date pricing.

Is training a dog good for the dog?

Yes! Training has many benefits for dogs. Going through a training process with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the confidence of a dog; it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog and for you. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog.

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training. Aggression is a serious issue, but it is also a term that is used very broadly. Many dogs that are thought to be aggressive are actually reactive, which is a different behavior altogether. If you believe you have an aggressive dog, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.

I am a trainer. How can I get listed here?

We update this list once per year, normally starting in January. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media and sign up for email updates with Sniffspot in order to be in the loop on the next round of nominations.

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David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best In Home Dog Trainers in Grand Rapids, MI of 2024

Jenn Gavin

Kaylee Benjamin

Virginia Brophy

Lindsay Carlson

Casey DeKam

Kellen Dewey

Roxanne Grady

Erika Gregorian

Nikki Koning

Miriam Kort

Jessica Maxwell

Carrie McIntyre

Pat Parker

Alaina Rudin

Kaitlyn Shamery

Parker Sheffield

Kristie Swan

Amy TOwnsend

Rachael VanDyke

Zach Zeneberg

See the Best In Home Dog Trainers in Other Cities Near Grand Rapids

See the Best Dog Trainers by Type in Grand Rapids

Frequently Asked Questions About In Home Dog Training in Grand Rapids

How can I get in touch with these dog trainers?

Are these dog trainers certified professionals?

What methods do these dog trainers teach?

How much do these dog trainers cost?

Is training a dog good for the dog?

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

I am a trainer. How can I get listed here?

David Adams

About Sniffspot

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Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

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Dog reactivity guides

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Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

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Top dog names in the US

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