The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2023

Welcome to the Los Angeles, CA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles 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 California 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 Los Angeles, CA Dog Trainers in 2023

Ashley Valentine

Ashley Valentine is a Nationally Certified Canine Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). She has completed a Complete Canine Certification in Canine Aggression master course through world-renowned Michael Shikashio who is fully Certified through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She uses positive reinforcement, management, and safety techniques to help owners and dogs with all levels of aggression, reactivity and anxiety. As with any canine, her goals are happy, loved dogs with confident, knowledgeable owners.

In addition, she has also completed a master course on separation anxiety by Moira Hechenleitner DVM, CSAT, in which the training method is a positive and relaxing experience for the dog, which will allow them to desensitize and learn to be home alone comfortably. To go along with her canine CPR and first aid qualifications, Ashley has also completed her certification in Recognizing Pain in Dogs and is a supporter of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Ashley has completed her Certification (F.D.M.) and Licensing as a Family Dog Mediator in Behavior (LFDM-B) through Kim Brophey. This methodology gives understanding to the many aspects as to WHY dogs behave the way they do and how we can help them in a humane, enriching and enlightening way. This methodology helps bridge the gap between human and dog in order to have a better understanding, communication and trusting relationship from both ends of the leash.

She has a special affinity for helping fearful and aggressive dogs reach a state of happiness and is always the common face at every local rescue event and takes pride in giving back to the canine community through her training, fostering, volunteering and her specialization in behavioral rehab.

Ashley pursued her passion by obtaining her bachelor's degree in Animal Science from The University of Connecticut in 2007. Her passion for her animal training career began early, with riding horses at the age of 8 and by 19, she was managing a riding facility. She also built/owned/operated 2 riding facilities in which she trained horses to compete in Hunter Jumper competitions all over the East Coast. She then moved to San Diego in 2015 and put that education to work. Since then, she has become the go-to socializer for the most extreme fear cases found in a variety of rescues in San Diego and overseas.

Certifications: LFDM-B Licensed Family Dog Mediator in Behavior Division, CBCC-KA Certified Behaviorist, CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Complete Canines Certification in Canine Aggression and Master Course Certification in Separation Anxiety, CGC Evaluator

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Private lessons, Virtual lessons, Group classes.

Behavioral issue focus: Aggression, Leash reactivity, Anxiety, Fear, Separation Anxiety.

Training methods: Positive reinforcement, Management and Safety techniques.

Why I became a dog trainer: Love of animals

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs be heard and understood by their owners.

My #1 dog training tip: Train the owner, treat the dog

Service areas: San Diego, Ca

Website: https://Zoesdogtraining.com

(Prestigious Pooch) Cora Wittekind-Williams

Before starting her own training business (Prestigious Pooch) in 2012, Cora (CPDT-KA, FDM) worked in dog boarding/daycare facilities (in Washington first, then Southern California ) for over 8 years developing training programs to best suit dogs in that environment as well as providing one on one training to clients and their dogs in their homes. She volunteered with Alliance of Therapy dogs for 11 years as a member with her beloved chow mix Alice, as well as a Tester /Observer. She is a member of APTD, PPG and is a Family Dog Mediator (through Kim Brophey's L.E.G.S. course). Cora lives an hour and a half north of Los Angeles in the Los Padres National Forest with her husband, Sim Williams (also a FDM trainer!) and their two dogs (Sadie and Rodney), a few snakes, a frog, and a tarantula.

Certifications: Certified trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, FDM (Family Dog Mediator),Member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)

Services include:

• Board and train
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: We work directly with the owners and their dogs to try to get to the root of any behavioral "issue" that they're experiencing. Once we have a better understanding of what is causing a behavior to occur, we will have a better chance of helping them with reaching their training goals. This includes reactivity (towards people, dogs, sounds etc.), anxiety, aggression, hyperactivity and any other behavior that the owner finds troublesome.

Behavioral issue focus: We prefer to arrange a short phone consult prior to meeting in person to discuss what the client is hoping to achieve with their dog, then set up an in home consultation with the client. We will then discuss each family members experience/relationship with their dog while observing their dog's behavior and their personal interactions. We will then discuss theory of dog behavior in a relatable and understandable manner before developing a customized plan to help them reach their goals. R+, fun, reward based training for the whole family!

Training methods: We prefer to arrange a short phone consult prior to meeting in person to discuss what the client is hoping to achieve with their dog, then set up an in home consultation with the client. We will then discuss each family members experience/relationship with their dog while observing their dog's behavior and their personal interactions. We will then discuss theory of dog behavior in a relatable and understandable manner before developing a customized plan to help them reach their goals. R+, fun, reward based training for the whole family!

Why I became a dog trainer: Cora has over 20 years of professional dog training experience, but a LIFETIME of animal experience.Growing up in rural Washington State, her family was active in wildlife rehabilitation and took in many raccoons, squirrels, and deer. Having a mother that was a Vet Tech, they would take in stray and unwanted dogs as well and work to prepare them for their new forever homes. It was through this experience that Cora found her passion for dog rescue/behavior and learned the importance of educating owners on how to build lasting relationships with their dogs based on trust and mutual respect. Which can be achieved by helping owners gain a deeper understanding of who their dog is and fulfilling their individual needs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Sharing my experience and education with owners (and just about anyone else who will listen!) to better understand their dogs and the importance of fulfilling their individual needs in order to build a rewarding, lifelong relationship.

My #1 dog training tip: Ask yourself, "Why could my dog be displaying this behavior?" rather than, "How do we FIX this behavior?" This will help to gain a better understanding of what the dog is personally experiencing; the displayed behavior could just be a symptom of something much deeper. (Thanks Kim Brophey!)

Service areas: Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Pasadena, SFV

Website: https://www.prestigiouspooch.com

Jessica Gore

As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) with expertise in teaching, healing, and rescue, Jessica provides positively the best for pup and parent. When not training, traveling to a conference, or continuing education, Jessica enjoys spending time in Hollywood with her two rescue pups.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, FDM, Pet Nutrition

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Body language and relationship building through healthy communication and a holistic approach: Urban pup-itis! I commonly work with pups that would benefit from feeling better about their surroundings and teach pup parents how to allow their companion to decompress from city life and prevent costly stress that can negatively effect health and behavior.

Behavioral issue focus: Urban pup-itis! I commonly work with pups that would benefit from feeling better about their surroundings and teach pup parents how to allow their companion to decompress from city life and prevent costly stress that can negatively effect health and behavior.

Training methods: Private coaching, remote coaching, consultation for dog-centered enterprises, mentorship, evaluation, speaking engagements and group seminars

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer because I wanted to understand how to better connect with my own animals, and reduce homeless pet populations by preventing behavior issues through education.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love helping people and seeing dogs shine!

My #1 dog training tip: My #1 dog training tip is to never use corrections with your pup

Service areas: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Los Angeles

Website: https://www.competentpup.com/

Annalisa Berns

Annalisa is a real-life Pet Detective. She dreamed of working with animals from a young age. Annalisa found her life's work when she read Kat Albrecht's book, 'The Lost Pet Chronicles.' She works and trains Search Dogs specifically trained to find lost pets. She is passionate about educating people about how to bring their lost pets home and how to train dogs to sniff out lost pets. Annalisa is the owner of Pet Search and Rescue and Pet Search and Rescue Investigations. She is a licensed Private Investigator in California. She wants to inspire you to consider training your dog (or adopting a new dog) to sniff out lost pets. Scent training is the ultimate enrichment for your dog, can help other people and their lost pets, and provide a rewarding job for you.

Certifications:

Missing Animal Response Technician with retired policewoman Kat Albrecht and Missing Pet Partnership, 2005.
California Licensed Private Investigator, 2014.
National Search Dog Alliance Member, Member Education Board NSDA (2009), Education Program Manager (2019-2022), 2007- current.
Registered Trainer and Member of Rescues2theRescue, 2023.

Services include:

• Board and train

More info about service provided: Most dogs benefit from having a job. I focus on scent training, which is enriching for them and their owners. This often improves behavioral issues, as it improves the dog's confidence, attention span and focus.

Behavioral issue focus: I use positive reinforcement training methods. Each dog is different, and I embrace that in scent training. I utilize treats, toys, clicker or markers, and follow Search and Rescue methods for scent training. I offer free initial phone calls to talk about your interests and your dog for scent training for finding lost pets. You learn about options to use the training for fun and enrichment for your pet, as a volunteer or as a business. Evaluating your dog is the next step, and can be done online or in-person.

Training methods: I use positive reinforcement training methods. Each dog is different, and I embrace that in scent training. I utilize treats, toys, clicker or markers, and follow Search and Rescue methods for scent training. I offer free initial phone calls to talk about your interests and your dog for scent training for finding lost pets. You learn about options to use the training for fun and enrichment for your pet, as a volunteer or as a business. Evaluating your dog is the next step, and can be done online or in-person.

Why I became a dog trainer: I love working with animals, and found my life's passion in working specially trained Search Dogs to help find lost pets. After training dogs and working over 18 years in the field, a natural next step is training people and their dogs to sniff out lost pets.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love helping people to listen, understand and work as a team with our amazing dog partners!

My #1 dog training tip: Train your dog to find lost pets. Pay your dog. In turn, your dog can pay your bills.Train your dog to find lost pets. Pay your dog. In turn, your dog can pay your bills.

Service areas: Train your dog to find lost pets. Pay your dog. In turn, your dog can pay your bills.

Elisa Martinez

My name is Elisa and I fell in love with dog training when I was raising my cattle dog who is now 5 years old. My mission is to help people make sense of all of the conflicting information out there and learn how to train their dogs with kindness. Communication is a two way street and I'm here to help you understand your dog a little better.

Certifications: AKC CGC evaluator. Zoom Room certified trainer

Services include:

• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Puppy training, obedience training, CGC training, agility training, tricks training

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Making dog's lives better by helping their humans understand their needs

My #1 dog training tip: If your dog is not responding, look to the environment, use higher value treats and reward heavily for new behaviors or new environments

Service areas: Santa Clarita and Bakersfield

Jennifer Joyce (Dynamite Doggies!)

I left the music industry in 1999 to begin working with dogs. After adopting a very special dog (Merlin) I got my training certification at the Academy for Dog Trainers. I have over 20 years experience working with shy, fearful and aggressive dogs. Our team has a combined 30 years experience.

Certifications: Certificate in Pet Dog Training & Counseling, Group Dog Walking Certificate, First Aid Training Certification

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: We work with all types of dogs, experiencing a wide range of complex behavior issues, as well as simple to complex obedience issues. Structure and compassion are our core tenets.

Behavioral issue focus: Shy, fearful, and aggressive dogs are always welcome!

Training methods: We use gentle, force-free methods in our one-on-one training sessions, and coach human clients on the same methods.

Why I became a dog trainer: I was inspired by my own dog, Merlin. He experienced a high level of anxiety and fear, and needed specialized help. It made sense for me to be the one to help him, so I enrolled in The Academy for Dog Trainers.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs and their people who love them.

My #1 dog training tip: There is always a more clear, and gentler way.

Service areas: Portland, OR, Los Angeles, CA, Remote Online

Website: https://www.dynamitedoggies.com

Karen Ni

Karen is a dog trainer, occupational therapist, and animal assisted therapy practitioner who has specialized knowledge and experience to work with both humans and dogs of all abilities. She teaches desired skills and behaviors, adapts tasks, and modifies the environment so both the dog and human are successful. Karen is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed, a member of the Pet Professional Guild, and a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers. She has experience placing service dogs and evaluating therapy animal teams.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Private dog training lessons for puppies, obedience/basic manners, behavior modification, tricks, therapy dog, and service dog work using positive reinforcement and force-free methods

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, pulling on leash, jumping, anxiety/fearfulness

Training methods: We use humane, science-based, and force-free training techniques. We use prevention, management, training, and enrichment to teach new behaviors and find solutions to problem behaviors. We start with an initial consultation, offer ongoing training training sessions as needed, and provide training plans after each session.

Why I became a dog trainer: While learning about animal assisted therapy as an occupational therapist, I also gained experience in training dogs for therapy and service dog work using positive reinforcement training methods. After completing my doctorate residency in occupational therapy, I continued to pursue further education in dog training. I saw there were a lot of people using punishment-based and aversive training methods. I became passionate about teaching others how to use positive reinforcement training to improve the bond between humans and dogs, and improve the welfare of dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love seeing when something new clicks in the dog's head and they understand the new behavior being taught. It is very rewarding hearing from dog parents how their lives have been improved through training their dog and how they feel more confident in their abilities to carry out the training.

My #1 dog training tip: Teach and reward the dog for what they are doing right, instead of punishing them for what they are doing wrong.

Service areas: East Los Angeles County, North Orange County

Website: https://www.sundogtherapy.com/

Analisa Six

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I have been working with dogs since 2015. I started working with reactive dogs in Oakland and moved to the high desert in 2020 and began working with dogs of most temperaments and various ages.

Certifications: DWA, DTIA

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Coaching, day training, puppy training, reactivity, fear, barking and lunging, trail manners, in home

Behavioral issue focus: Barking, lunging, stranger fear, predation end of life needs, anxiety, global fear, basic manners

Training methods: Consultations and written training plans as well as online coaching

Why I became a dog trainer: I love dogs

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs find better ways to navigate a human world and advocating for them.

My #1 dog training tip: Behavior is never fixed. Don't let yourself get stuck in a plan that isn't working.

Service areas: Yucca Valley, Joshua tree, Pioneertown, Morongo Valley

Brygette Branco

I have been working with dogs professionally for over 8 years. I am CPDT-KA certified has her Service Dog Coach certificate through Cooperative Paws. I am also a member of several professional organizations including the IAABC, APDT, and CCPDT. In my spare time I enjoy training my own dogs, Stoli and Hex. I really enjoy trick training and scent training with my dogs and I have earned several titles through the AKC with them. I have been working with California Service Dog Academy and training Service Dogs since 2019.

Certifications: CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed), SDC (Service Dog Coach), AKC CGC Evaluator

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Socialization, Basic Obedience, House Manners, Public Manners, Psychiatric Service Dog Training, Mobility Service Dog Training, Trick Dog Training, CGC and CGCU Training

Behavioral issue focus: I specialize in working with reactive dogs and dogs needing confidence building.

Training methods: I am a positive reinforcement trainer. I provide training guides and training plans, public and in-home consultations.

Why I became a dog trainer: I love dogs, but who doesn't. I really wanted to help people do exciting things with their dogs. I think it's important to show people what their dogs are capable of, whether its helping their dogs have manners at home or teaching a dog to help someone with a disability and everything in between.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people discover that their dog is capable of incredible things with the right training and effort!

My #1 dog training tip: Positive reinforcement is such an amazing way to build a bond with your dog. Positive reinforcement training works on building up trust and communication with your dog so that dogs willingly work for their handlers, without using force or pain to perform.

Service areas: Tulare, Kings, and Fresno Counties

Website: https://cooperativepaws.com/

Christine Dang

Animal behavior and training have been a passion for Christine ever since childhood, when she eagerly studied every training book in the library and regularly volunteered to walk shelter dogs on the weekends. Since then, she has worked with a wide variety of animals, from a resource guarding Yorkie to a fearful Labrador, and even other species such as guinea pigs and rabbits! Christine's training philosophy focuses on bridging the gap between humans and pets through relationship building, clear communication, and using rewards to motivate and encourage learning. She also strongly believes that providing enriching activities for dogs to fulfill their natural instincts helps improve their confidence and promotes mental wellness.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

• Board and train
• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Primary focus on day training & enrichment services, limited one on one sessions and group classes available.

Behavioral issue focus: Overarousal, reactivity, fear/anxiety, noise sensitivity, frustration/redirection

Training methods: +R (positive reinforcement) using food, play, environment, etc. with verbal marker cues.

Why I became a dog trainer: I have always felt a connection to animals, and learning how to "speak their language" is such an amazing feeling. Nothing makes me happier than helping build that bridge of communication between a pet and their family!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: That moment when it all "clicks" - the dog is having fun, the people are having fun, everyone's having a great time learning together.

My #1 dog training tip: Be patient. It's so easy to get frustrated when things don't go the way you imagined. Take a step back, take a deep breath, and try again.

Service areas: City of Pittsburgh / Allegheny County, select availability for South Bay, Los Angeles, CA

Alexandra Bassett

Alexandra Bassett is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and the lead dog trainer and behavior specialist at Dog Savvy Los Angeles. Originally from Martha's Vineyard, she has worked as a professional dog trainer and shelter volunteer for over 15 years.

Alexandra (also known as Lexi) has studied under World Champion Dog Trainer, Susan Garrett, and counts Andrea Arden and Dr. Sophia Yin as the other major influences on her positive training approach and philosophy.

She believes choice & reinforcement-based dog training methodology‚ "otherwise known as game-based dog training" is the most progressive form of positive reinforcement dog training available today and actively discourages the use of correction-based dog training methodology.

She has developed Dog Savvy Los Angeles's breakthrough behavior modification training programs for solving leash reactivity, aggression, and dog separation anxiety based on her studies of the teachings of Susan Garrett, Pat Miller, Patricia McConnell, Kevin Behan, and Grisha Stewart.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Dog Savvy Los Angeles specializes in game-based dog training and solving problem dog behaviors.

Behavioral issue focus: We are dog separation anxiety and leash reactivity specialists.

Training methods: We use game-based methods of training also known as "learning through games of choice" that build a dog's bond with its guardian while teaching them to be well-behaved. We offer online consultations, in-home and virtual training programs, and custom training plans to suit each individual dog's need.

Why I became a dog trainer: To raise awareness about how compassionate methods of training are not only effective but a much better way of building a loving and trusting bond between dogs and humans (mainly to counteract the prevalence of force-based methods which can erode the human/animal bond and very often do more harm than good).

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs and people to live harmoniously together!

My #1 dog training tip: Training does not have to be harsh to be effective. Dogs learn faster and with greater clarity when training is enjoyable, so game-based methods that make learning fun and teach them to earn the things the want in life through good behavior are the best way to train a dog!

Service areas: Within 7 miles of Echo Park, Los Angeles or online.

Website: https://www.dogsavvylosangeles.com/

Karl Roberts

I got my first dog when I was six and I didn't train him, just in case you thought this was going to be a child prodigy story. He was a Jack Russell mix called Shep and I don't remember him ever having a leash, he definitely didn't sit on command, but he followed me everywhere and he listened in his own way to what I told him we were doing, or where we were going. It worked because I was with him all the time, really, he used to come to school with me until I was 11 and had to go to "big" school, because me and him grew up in the 80's in Wales where everything was a bit more chill.

Times have changed and so have I but not how I feel about that special relationship with our dogs. Using modern techniques that are completely and utterly force free I'll teach you how to make sure your dog has all the obedience they need to be safe and also guide you on the journey to cementing that bond which makes your dog trust and therefore listen to you.

Certifications: IMDT

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided:

Board and train
Adult obedience training (private)
Puppy obedience classes (basic and advanced)
In-home training (and at our training center)
Clicker training
Daycare

Behavioral issue focus:

Rescue dog rehab
Dog and human reactivity (on and off-leash)
Separation anxiety
Impulse control
Resource guarding
Leash pulling
Recall

Training methods: Positive reinforcement training, Offer a free 30 minute consultation to meet dog and owner resulting in a bespoke plan of action, Post session 'homework' is given to ensure progression between training sessions

Service areas: Los Angeles

Website: https://www.muttsandmunch.com

Debra Elliott

I'm 56 , came into training later than others but I am confident in my abilities. I have been around dogs my entire life, I showed dogs in Junior handling conformation classes as well as an adult. I have participated in obedience trials with my dog and have owned and trained dogs for over 35 years.

Certifications: Obedience, Socialization, CPR

Services include:

• In home training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: I offer in home private classes as well as group classes

Behavioral issue focus: The issue I see are counter surfing, barking, leash manners, basic and intermediate obedience issues

Training methods: I individualize training plans according to clients needs. I utilize clicker and or treats . I am a positive reinforcement trainer

Why I became a dog trainer: After training several of my own dogs my sister suggested getting my certification as a trainer

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Obviously working with the dogs but also seeing my clients faces when everything clicks and they and their dog successfully complete a behavior

My #1 dog training tip: Patience

Service areas: Escondido, San Marcos, , Vista, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Fallbrook, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Hemet

Jim Leske

Been training & rehabilitating pets in California for 20 years.

Certifications: AKC Training/ Testing: Canine good citizen

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Off leash training
• In home training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Obedience, behavior problems, Introductions/ socialization, We come to you.

Behavioral issue focus: Jumping, barking, house training, hyper, socialization

Training methods: Modern positive pet psychology

Why I became a dog trainer: Working with animals is a dream job, they always want to learn & please, Teaching the humans how to communicate with their pets is key !!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: When an animal is mislabeled: Can't, won't or will never and then proves them wrong & exceeds expectations, never gets old !!

My #1 dog training tip: Exercise is for the pets, training is for the humans !!

Service areas: LA county, Ventura county, Orange county

Website: https://www.GoodDogsAreTrained.com

Sniffspot Los Angeles Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Los Angeles dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles cost?

Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles?

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 California was $33,714 per year and $16.21 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.

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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Los Angeles

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

Bakersfield, CA
Fresno, CA
Huntington Beach, CA
Modesto, CA
Oakland, CA
Oxnard, CA
Riverside, CA
Sacramento, CA
San Diego, CA
San Francisco, CA
San Jose, CA
Santa Maria, CA
Santa Rosa, CA
Stockton, CA
Vallejo, CA
Visalia, CA

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near California

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

Arizona
Nevada
Oregon

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