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Looking for customized dog training programs tailored to your dog's specific needs? Look no further! As a professional dog trainer, I offer a range of services including puppy training, adult training, trick training, and day training. My highly individualized programs are designed to help your pup learn and thrive. From socialization and cooperative husbandry to trick training, I cover everything your new puppy needs to know. And if you have an adult or adolescent dog, don't worry – I love working with them too! I use science-based and fun methods to solve behavioral problems and help your dog become a well-behaved companion. Whether you need a 5-week or 10-week program, my services are tailored to your pup's specific needs. And for those with busy schedules, I also offer day training sessions. Contact me today and let's get started on the path to a happier, healthier relationship with your furry friend!
Jumping on people Barking excessively Pulling on leash Reactivity towards other dogs or people Destructive behavior (chewing, digging, etc.) Fear or anxiety Resource guarding (food, toys, etc.) Hyperactivity Lack of focus or attention House training issues Excessive licking or chewing Inappropriate chewing or mouthing
As a positive reinforcement dog trainer, my approach is centered around rewarding good behavior and using science-based, humane methods to help your furry friend become a well-behaved companion. I do not use any aversive techniques, such as shock collars, prong collars, or physical punishment. When you first contact me, we'll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your dog's behavior and training goals. During this consultation, I'll ask you questions about your dog's history, daily routine, and any specific issues you're experiencing. I'll also observe your dog's behavior and body language to get a better sense of their temperament. Based on our consultation, I'll create a customized training plan that addresses your dog's specific needs. This plan will outline the goals we're working towards and the steps we'll take to achieve them. I'll also provide you with guidance on how to reinforce positive behavior at home and help you avoid common pitfalls. Throughout the training process, I'll use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play, to encourage your dog to perform desired behaviors. We'll work together in short, frequent sessions to build your dog's skills and confidence, making the learning process enjoyable and fun for both you and your pup. If necessary, I may recommend behavior modification techniques to address any underlying issues that are contributing to your dog's behavior. I'll work closely with you to develop a plan that addresses these issues in a safe and effective manner. Overall, my goal is to help you build a strong, positive relationship with your furry friend based on trust, respect, and clear communication. By working together, we can help your dog become a happy, well-behaved member of your family.
I became a dog trainer because I was struggling to find a trainer in 2019 who would use positive reinforcement techniques with my reactive and seizure-prone dog, Murphy. After a disappointing experience with a "balanced" trainer, I decided to take matters into my own hands and learn how to help Murphy myself. As a military spouse, I was fortunate enough to have the Air Force pay for my first certification, and I quickly fell in love with the training process. With my background in marine biology, I have always been a science nerd, and dog training fit perfectly into my life. Being able to help Murphy and other dogs like him has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I feel grateful to have found a career that combines my passions for animals, science, and helping others.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer is watching the moment when a dog finally understands what I'm asking of them and offers the behavior perfectly. There's nothing quite like that "click" moment when a dog's eyes light up and they realize what they're supposed to do. But what makes this experience even better is seeing the excitement and joy on the faces of the pet parents when their dog finally "gets it." It's incredibly rewarding to see the bond between a dog and their owner grow stronger as they work together to achieve a common goal. Knowing that I played a role in helping that relationship flourish is truly fulfilling and makes me love my job even more.
One of the best dog training tips that I've learned and often share with others is to avoid repeating the same cue or phrase over and over again. While it may seem like you're being clear and reinforcing the behavior you want, in reality, repeating yourself too often can actually be counterproductive. Dogs are quick learners and respond best to clear and concise cues, so when you repeat yourself, you're actually teaching them to tune out your voice and ignore what you're saying. This is known as "learned irrelevance," where the dog learns that your words don't necessarily carry any meaning or consequences. Instead of repeating yourself, try to be patient and give your dog time to process what you're asking of them. If they don't respond right away, try using a different cue or breaking the behavior down into smaller steps to make it easier for them to understand. By avoiding repetition, you'll help your dog learn more effectively and strengthen your communication and bond with them.
Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but what do you do when adventure calls you to a place that’s a bit too far for a drive? If you're a pet-owner who want to jetset with your pup, then you’ll want to find the best dog-friendly airlines.
Discover the Great Pyrenees, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, loyal, and independent nature. Recognized as a large dog, the Great Pyrenees have their origins in France where they were initially bred as livestock guardians starting in the roots back to 3000 BC century.
Discover the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a breed celebrated for its loyal, playful, and friendly nature. Recognized as a medium-sized dog, Staffordshire Bull Terriers originated in the United Kingdom, where they were initially bred for bull-baiting and later for dog fighting starting in the early 19th century.
Discover the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, a breed celebrated for its friendly and affectionate nature. Recognized as a small dog, Pembroke Welsh Corgis have their origins in Wales, where they were initially bred for herding cattle, sheep, and horses starting in the 10th century.
Discover the Boxer, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and alert nature. Recognized as a large dog, Boxers have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for hunting large game starting in the late 19th century.
Discover the Great Dane, a breed celebrated for its friendly, affectionate, and curious nature. Recognized as a large dog, Great Danes have their origins in Germany, where they were initially bred for hunting and guarding starting in the 16th century.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.