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The Best Dog Trainers in Rhode Island of 2026

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

This is a list of the top dog trainers in Rhode Island, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

Jen Reynolds
B.S., CPDT-KA, AKC CGC Evaluator
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
All of Rhode Island and Southern Massachusetts
I have been training since 2007, first working at a retail pet store before obtaining my Bachelor's degree in Animal Science with a focus on Animal Behavior. My main passion is working with rescue dogs, and I was the behavior department head for the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for 7 years. I currently work with many local rescues and shelters to help their do...

Kristen Noel
BA CBCC-KA FDM CPDT-KA FFCP CTP, Certified Behavior Consultant, Certified Family Dog Mediator, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Fear Free Certified Professional, Canine Training Professional
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
Rhode Island
Kristen is an internationally Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). The CCPDT is the only independent, standardized certification for dog training professionals that confirms and awards credentials based upon a rigorous examination and thorough verification of the s...

Kelsey Shank
CCPDT-KA, FDM, Certified Reactivity Specialist, AKC CGC Evaluator, AKC Fit Dog Instructor
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
At-Center in East Greenwich, RI; In-Home within 10 miles of training center; Virtual
Kelsey is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she studied psychology and sociology including Applied Behavior Analysis. She worked with individuals with special needs for 10 years before she expanded her interest in behavior to canines. Starting as a foster, she began working closely with a local rescue organization where she held the position of Training Coordinator.

...

Casey Hallenbeck
CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assesser) FFCT (Fear Free Certified Trainer) DN-CET (DogNostics Certified Enrichment Technician)
Puppy training
Lincoln, Cumberland, Smithfield, Pawtucket, Providence
I am the owner and creator of For the Love of Dogs in Lincoln, RI.
I have worked with puppies, adult dogs, energetic dogs, calm dogs, and almost everything in between. I have been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer for 3 years.
I am committed to continuing my education to best help my clients get the most up to date information possible.
I currently have 2 dogs of my own, Cooper (...

Jo Ferraris
BS Animal Science, KPA CTP, CNWI, FFCP Trainer
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training
South County, Washington County
Jo graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a BS in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Track. She is also a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Professional Trainer, Certified Nose Work Instructor, and Fear Free Trainer.

Jo has been training dogs on a professional level since 2013. She has worked with hundreds of dogs of varying ages and breeds and can apply these previous experiences t...

Alexandria Hawk
CPDT-KA CTA CGC Evaluator
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton, Fall River, South Kingstown, North Kingstown, Wakefield, Narragansett
Originally from New York, I relocated to Rhode Island at the same time I started my career as a dog trainer. After graduating from Catch Canine Trainer Academy, I moved to Newport where I reside with my seven-year-old mixed breed, Ashley Pants. In addition to offering my services privately, I run group training classes at The Wiggle Room, Rumford Pet Express, and the Potter League for Animals.

The Best Providence, RI Dog Trainers In 2026

Jen Reynolds
I have been training since 2007, first working at a retail pet store before obtaining my Bachelor's degree in Animal Science with a focus on Animal Behavior. My main passion is working with rescue dogs, and I was the behavior department head for the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals for 7 years. I currently work with many local rescues and shelters to help their do...
View profile
Kelsey Shank
Kelsey is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she studied psychology and sociology including Applied Behavior Analysis. She worked with individuals with special needs for 10 years before she expanded her interest in behavior to canines. Starting as a foster, she began working closely with a local rescue organization where she held the position of Training Coordinator.

...
View profile
Casey Hallenbeck
I am the owner and creator of For the Love of Dogs in Lincoln, RI.
I have worked with puppies, adult dogs, energetic dogs, calm dogs, and almost everything in between. I have been a Certified Professional Dog Trainer for 3 years.
I am committed to continuing my education to best help my clients get the most up to date information possible.
I currently have 2 dogs of my own, Cooper (...
View profile

Welcome to Rhode Island’s list of top dog trainers. The Rhode Island list is based on 689 votes from the Sniffspot community. Only the Rhode Island dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Jen Reynolds at the top of this list with 263 votes.

Our rankings include trainers certified by CPDT-KA and FDM. They also specialize in Puppy training, In home training amongst other training programs.

Rhode Island dog trainer services include:

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

Dog trainers in Rhode Island selflessly set pets up for success. Jen Reynolds shares why they chose this path: I had a dog and person reactive dog and I needed to find a way to help her, it grew into my passion, and I wanted to help other people.. All 6 trainers on this Rhode Island list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Rhode Island trainer, Kristen Noel, uses the following methods: I am a Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)- my methods are exclusively force and fear free. Each private training program begins with a 2 hour Behavior Assessment. This Assessment is both an introduction and evaluation that includes a detailed history-taking to inform my work with the family, introductory recommendations, initial prognosis, formulation of an individualized training plan and familiarization with my methods. This Assessment is followed by resources and a comprehensive Behavior Report. After the assessment clients may enter into my Private Training Program, which begins with 4 one-hour working lessons and can continue with single lessons as the client needs..

Explore the top dog trainers in Rhode Island as voted by our community:

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See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Rhode Island

Providence, RI

FAQ: Meet the Top Dog Trainer in Rhode Island

Who are the top Aggressive dog trainers in Rhode Island?

Our top-rated trainer, Jen Reynolds, has earned 263 votes for their outstanding work in Aggressive dog training. Alongside them, Kristen Noel and Kelsey Shank have also made a significant impact amongst Rhode Island pets.

What motivates Rhode Island dog trainers?

Jen Reynolds became a dog trainer because I had a dog and person reactive dog and I needed to find a way to help her, it grew into my passion, and I wanted to help other people./. Similarly, Kristen Noel and Kelsey Shank have unique motivations, with I grew up in the sticks of Foster-Glocester where they actually did go to school but they didn't: walk their dogs, train their dogs or pick up after their dogs. The transition from growing up in the country on 18 acres of land to her first job in the city forever changed her idea of what a pet dog was. While waiting for her first job interview at Petsmart, I remember wandering over to the store's training ring to watch the class. It was there that I realized dog training was a real job that I could make into a career. I have come a long way from the makeshift backyard agility courses I would design for my aging Jack Russell Terrier; I have now spent more than half my life learning, building and enhancing my skills in the industry. This is more than a side job or a hobby- it is all I have ever done; my past, present and future are dedicated to the hundreds of clients and dogs I have worked with and continue to serve every day. My experiences in this industry, both good and bad, have shaped and continue to strengthen my decision to provide behavior consultation services to the public as my career. and2019 driving their passion.

What is Jen Reynolds biggest tip?

For Jen Reynolds, the best tip is to: Be patient! Changing behaviors takes time, but it is worth it in the end!.

What do Rhode Island trainers love most about their work?

Jen Reynolds finds the greatest joy in Seeing the improvements with dogs and helping owners live the lives they want to with their pups., while Kristen Noel and Kelsey Shank cherish My favorite part of being a trainer is using my knowledge as a Certified Behavior Consultant and Family Dog Mediator to help families understand their dogs in ways that traditional obedience training falls short of. We have come such a long way from 'sit, down and stay' - I enjoy teaching the ethology, psychology and ethical aspects of owning dogs in our modern world., and My favorite part of being a trainer is using my knowledge as a Certified Behavior Consultant and Family Dog Mediator to help families understand their dogs in ways that traditional obedience training falls short of. We have come such a long way from 'sit, down and stay' - I enjoy teaching the ethology, psychology and ethical aspects of owning dogs in our modern world., respectively.

How do you become a certified trainer in Rhode Island?

All the top trainers in Rhode Island have earned certifications like B.S., CPDT-KA, AKC CGC Evaluator, demonstrating their expertise in Puppy training, 11514, In home training, 8225, Reactive dog training, 6120, Aggressive dog training, 5630, Agility training, 1262, Deaf dog training, 900, Board and train, 724, Off leash training, 583 and beyond.

Why are these certifications crucial in Rhode Island?

Qualifications like CPDT-KA ensure that each trainer is equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to address a wide range of behavioral issues, from Aggressive dog training to Aggressive dog training.

How do their methods differ?

Rhode Island’s Jen Reynolds describes their method as: We train using positive reinforcement training methods, we do not utlize pinch, prong or shock collars. We offer behavior consultations if needed and typically start in-home training programs with a package of 4 lessons. Additional sessions needed are purchased one at a time.. Meanwhile, Kristen Noel says: I am a Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP)- my methods are exclusively force and fear free. Each private training program begins with a 2 hour Behavior Assessment. This Assessment is both an introduction and evaluation that includes a detailed history-taking to inform my work with the family, introductory recommendations, initial prognosis, formulation of an individualized training plan and familiarization with my methods. This Assessment is followed by resources and a comprehensive Behavior Report. After the assessment clients may enter into my Private Training Program, which begins with 4 one-hour working lessons and can continue with single lessons as the client needs.. As you can see, there are diverse approaches to Aggressive dog training in Rhode Island.

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

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

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 Dog Trainers in Rhode Island of 2026

Jen Reynolds

Kristen Noel

Kelsey Shank

Casey Hallenbeck

Jo Ferraris

Alexandria Hawk

See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Rhode Island

FAQ: Meet the Top Dog Trainer in Rhode Island

Who are the top Aggressive dog trainers in Rhode Island?

What motivates Rhode Island dog trainers?

What is Jen Reynolds biggest tip?

What do Rhode Island trainers love most about their work?

How do you become a certified trainer in Rhode Island?

Why are these certifications crucial in Rhode Island?

How do their methods differ?

David Adams

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