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The Best Dog Trainers in Killeen, TX of 2023

The Best Dog Trainers in Killeen, TX of 2023

Merlin Noble

May 30, 2023

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Killeen, TX Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Killeen based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 55,000 votes were used in compiling this list. We have only included the top trainers with sufficient votes and the trainers are ordered in terms of the number of votes received. Trainers that tied are ranked in reverse alphabetical order based on first name. All dog trainers on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This list is a subset of the broader Top Trainers in Texas list. To learn more about our dog trainer contest, feel free to view the dog trainer contest post.

Dog training is one of the most important activities someone can do with their dog. Many come to dog training through a specific issue they want addressed, anything from barking to separation anxiety. Some have adopted dogs from animal shelters with an abusive experience and some just have happy puppies looking for everyday life skills. Trainers can help with all kinds of specific skills and issues, from leash manners to territorial aggression to anxiety around skateboards to common puppy challenges. However, what many discover is that working with a trainer is actually a way for a pet owner to deepen their relationship with their dog. The enhanced communication skills that result can increase quality of life, be a rewarding experience, be a social experience and lead to more harmonious relationships. Knowing that one’s dog is having a happier life can dramatically improve peace of mind. As the saying goes: happy dog, happy life. And it extends further than just the dog, to the pet owners. Owner empowerment can actually improve the relationship between owners. And finding the right trainer can make all the difference in the experience.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, which is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with all private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches and more. Sniffspot has worked closely with dog trainers to create safe spaces for dogs and our top trainer lists are a natural extension of that relationship. You can browse Sniffspot's local dog parks here.

The Best Killeen, TX Dog Trainers in 2023

Sarah Alvarado

Sarah discovered a passion for training and behavior when she took her first dog home from a local shelter while attending Texas A&M University. Throughout college, she worked in a veterinary office. She graduated with a degree in Animal Science in 2007 and began teaching group puppy and obedience classes in 2010. In 2014 she began working with service dogs.

For three years she worked with female inmates in the Texas prison system teaching service dog training and handling. She is now focused on helping pet dogs and their families live together joyfully. Sarah is committed to continuing education and regularly attends seminars and conferences to improve her knowledge and skill. In September of 2017 she became a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed. She shares her home with her husband, a 10-year-old Catahoula, a 4-year-old Rhodesian Ridgeback, and two 13-year-old cats.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

Board and train
In home training
Reactive dog training

More info about service provided: My primary service is small-scale in-home board and train. Additionally, I have a limited number of spots available for private lessons.

Behavioral issue focus: Most commonly, I help humans and their dogs work through reactivity. I also take on a lot of adolescent dogs who need a bit of help navigating their world. Additionally, I love to help puppies get off on the right paw with a puppy Board and Train that focuses heavily on healthy socialization and a few solid foundation skills.

Training methods: I begin with a 90-minute consultation, during which I take a thorough behavior history and help clients set goals. If a dog stays with me for a Board and Train, we follow the dog's stay with private lessons and written guidelines for continuing to build and maintain behaviors once the dog returns home.

Why I became a dog trainer: I was fascinated by behavior and how animals learn. I got hooked watching dogs learn, and now I enjoy I enjoy using that knowledge to help people get the most out of their relationships with their dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The relationships I form with both the dogs and the humans with whom I get to work. I am always learning from you!

My #1 dog training tip: Take time to play with your dog.

Service areas: I live in Troy and serve the surrounding areas including Temple, Belton, Killeen, Round Rock, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Hutto, Jarrell, and Salado.

Erica Williams

Im an Army Veteran and currently train service dogs for a non profit. This non profit trains service dogs for free for military and Veterans. I do also help on the side for behavior issues. In addition to that I assist training for Waco Agility Group.

Certifications:

Services include:

In home training
Reactive dog training
Service dog training
Puppy training
Agility training

More info about service provided: Basic obedience, behavior issues, service dog training, agility training

Behavioral issue focus: Reactiveness, jumping, bolting out the door, barking

Training methods: positive reward based training

Why I became a dog trainer: I love dogs and being able to give Veterans their freedom back through a dog is so rewarding

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people have a healthy and happy relationship with their dogs.

My #1 dog training tip: Training your dog is simply learning how to communicate with them.

Service areas: Killeen, Harker Heights, Fort Hood, Belton, Nolanville, Temple

Sniffspot Killeen Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Killeen dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Killeen as selected by broad voting from the Sniffspot community and the general public. These trainers are expert dog trainers, who received votes from their delighted customers, due to their excellent dedication to customer service, excellent results and general care they exhibit for their clients. Many have worked with thousands of dogs and are highly experienced trainers.

How can I get in touch with 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 Killeen dog trainers certified professionals?

Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification and professional trainers are not required to be certified. However, certifications are important to show that a professional dog trainer has a standard of expertise to help train your dog. Each trainer’s certifications are listed on their profile.

What are the top certifications for Dog Trainers in Killeen?

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. You can review the dog trainer certifications for each specific dog trainer on their profile on this page.

What methods are used in the dog training sessions?

There are many methods for teaching dogs and a lot of disagreement about the correct training approach. All of the Killeen trainers included on this list use positive reinforcement training only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This includes not using any specifically aversive approach to training or training aid, such as a prong or electronic dog training collar (also called remote dog training collar or shock collars). As for specific training programs and specialties, such as day training / doggie daycare or obedience training, you can see more information in each trainer’s profile.

Are dog training lessons in a training facility or are virtual options available?

Some dog trainers operate exclusively from a training facility, some do house calls and some offer video calls or other virtual options. There are pros and cons to each option and the most efficient behavioral training option depends on specific circumstances, for instance, what hours work best for you. A training center or training ranch can be a good option if your training plan requires facilities, training equipment or dedicated space. We recommend reaching out to the specific trainer you are interested in or browsing their website for more information.

Are dog training lessons private or in a group setting?

Every different circumstance of dog and owners may require a different setting, whether it’s housebreaking issues, anxiety issues, lack of proper socialization, food aggression or just bad habits. Each trainer has different offerings as far as whether they can offer clients a private training session or a group class. Trainers provide information about their private class and group class offerings in their profiles and you can browse their website for more information as well. It may make sense for your specific circumstance to reach out to the trainer to ask if they recommend group or private dog training classes. Some trainers also have a team of specialists that can provide even higher levels of service, or provide specialized sessions, such as pack walks.

How much does dog training in Killeen cost?

Killeen dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services and phases of training. For instance behavioral modification that involves boarding is often more expensive than day training, and private lessons are generally more expensive than group lessons. Prices can also vary depending on specific behavioral issues. Lastly, some trainers have more overhead than others, 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. Whether with basic training skills or complex training techniques, going through behavior training with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the level of confidence enabling of a dog (and it can also help with building customer confidence!). Rather than being about exerting maximum control over them, it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. For instance, crate training can help a dog feel safe and at home in a crate vs fearful and uncertain. Dog training can teach important skills, such as leash control, potty training or a general level of obedience skills. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog to learn life skills and for their family. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog and serve them throughout their entire healthy life!

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training and coaching. Aggression in dogs 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. A trainer can help you interpret signs of aggression, such as excessive barking, fear aggression and leash aggression, and type of aggression. If you believe you have a dog with aggressive behaviors, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.

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

As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Killeen you can be considered for this list. 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.

How much do dog trainers make in Killeen?

Dog trainer earnings vary widely depending on many factors, such as whether a dog trainer is an employee or owns their own full-service professional dog training business. According to ZipRecruiter, the average dog trainer salary in Texas was $30,675 per year and $14.75 per hour. It is impossible to say how much a dog trainer can earn with a full-service professional dog training company, because the size and profitability of companies can vary widely.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Texas Cities

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Amarillo, TX
Austin, TX
Dallas, TX
Houston, TX
Katy, TX
San Antonio, TX

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Texas

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Arkansas
Louisiana
New Mexico
Oklahoma

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

Merlin Noble

May 30, 2023

Dog Trainers

Merlin Noble

About the author

Merlin Noble is a full-time freelancer who loves to work on creative and innovative projects. She is an enthusiastic person who is passionate about learning new skills. She is highly motivated, resilient and flexible in handling diverse issues. She is a proud MOM of two kids and four happy dogs - Hulk, Alwyn, Avira, and Flash! In addition to her dogs, she has a backyard poultry farm that’s made up of 30 hens, 2 roosters, 3 runner ducks, and 2 Pekin ducks. She’s a woman of guns and a State-level Rifle competition shooter who chose clay pigeons and paper targets since hunting is not allowed in the country she resides. When she isn't working, you can find her in the kitchen inventing her own recipes, watching her poultry farm in her backyard, practicing in the shooting range, and watching a movie with her family. She loves the work she does and she is passionate about it!

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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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 Dog Trainers in Killeen, TX of 2023

The Best Killeen, TX Dog Trainers in 2023

Sarah Alvarado

Erica Williams

Sniffspot Killeen Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Texas Cities

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Texas

Merlin Noble

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