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The Best Dog Trainers for Puppy Training in San Diego, CA of 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Puppy training in San Diego, CA. Based on feedback and votes from our Puppy training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the San Diego area.

  • Gina Esoldi Photo

    Gina Esoldi

    CPDT-KA AKC-CGC Evaluator Assistance Dogs International Crisis Response Canine Trainer - San Diego CPR - Canine Paws to Share

    Service dog training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    San Diego

    In 2014 with my then companion dogs, Tebow, Scruffy and Richter, I ventured to the dog park and had a chance meeting with Sally Montruchio the founder of Next Step Service Dogs. This meeting changed my life, as Sally helped me take my passion for dogs and service to the next level. After attending just one class with NSSD I was committed to the program and excited for the opportunity to train a...


  • Sarah Surritt Photo

    Sarah Surritt

    KPACTP, CPDT, CGC Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Carlsbad, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, Vista, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, Clairemont, Sorrento Valley, Escondido, Poway, Oceanside, Leucadia, Cardiff, Rancho Bernardo, Mira Mesa, Pacific Beach, San Marcos

    Sarah was that kid growing up who was always bringing home strays and begging her mom to let her keep them. Ever do that? Thankfully, her folks typically said yes and she grew up surrounded by animals.

    Until she began volunteering at the San Diego Humane Society and what was the onset of her training career in 2001, she didn't realize there was a different way to train and build a gre...


  • Ashley Cipolletti Photo

    Ashley Cipolletti

    CPDT-KA, BA Psychology

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

    Point Loma, ocean beach, pacific beach, hillcrest, north park, South Park, downtown, little Italy, Clairemont, La Jolla, Scripps Ranch, La Mesa, Chula Vista, National City, San Diego county

    I am a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and I specialize in training former rescue and shelter dogs. I'm passionate about giving a voice to the voiceless and strive to make the world a better place for canines and their human companions.


  • Brandi Hutsell Photo

    Brandi Hutsell

    CCPDT-KA, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    La Jolla, Point Loma, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Downtown San Diego, Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, Hillcrest, North Park, South Park, Golden Hill, Normal Heights, Kensington, Tierrasanta, Mission Valley, Kearny Mesa, Clairemont, Bay Park, Carmel Valley, Sorrento Valley

    Brandi Hutsell is a co-owner and certified dog trainer with Instinct San Diego. Brandi loves using modern, evidence-backed learning techniques to help humans and dogs learn to communicate clearly with one
    another, and seeing the strong, positive relationships that grow from that mutual understanding. She is a kind, patient teacher who readily adapts her coaching and communication style to m...


  • Leeyah Wiseman Photo

    Leeyah Wiseman

    School For The Dogs Certified Professional Trainer, Separation Anxiety Shadowing Program Certificate, Advanced Separation Anxiety Shadowing Program Certificate

    Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    San Diego

    Leeyah is a certified dog trainer and completed a rigorous 6-month apprenticeship studying animal behavior and applying science based, positive reinforcement training techniques. She's passionate about utilizing gentle training methods to help anxious dogs and their people. And is known to go above and beyond in order to give her clients the best chance possible.

    Through completing hu...


  • Beth Frumkin Photo

    Beth Frumkin

    Former guide dog as assistance dog trainer. Over 20 yrs experience

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    San Diego County

    Hi . My name is Beth and I am a dog trainer and behaviorist with 22 years experience. I have trained Guide Dogs for the Blind, Asistance Dogs for the Disabled, was the puppy group leader for Guide Dogs of America. I have trained thousands of dogs privately. I have recently published a kindle book chronicling obedience and behavioral training as well as many articles. I work on the train the tra...


  • Lou Alicea Photo

    Lou Alicea

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

    Hello everyone! I'm Lou, a Behavioral Specialist at Mango Dogs San Diego, serving our vibrant city and its surrounding areas. I own a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois named Stoney. She helps me with working out behavioral issues with all my clients and she will show you how awesome your dog(s) could be.

    Years ago I struggled with my dog Doja, she was reactive and aggressive towards both do...


  • Anna Ashmore Photo

    Anna Ashmore

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    With over a decade of experience in dog training, Anna emphasizes balanced methods and positive reinforcement. She studied at the Animal Behavioral College and has a background in Behavioral Psychology, aiming to foster stronger bonds between dogs and their owners. Anna is experienced with various breeds and behavioral challenges, Anna is also AKC certified.


  • Eduardo Bayardo Photo

    Eduardo Bayardo

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    Eduardo is a balanced dog trainer who believes dogs succeed when we combine positive reinforcement techniques with firm, yet gentle guidance. He possesses three years of practical experience addressing a wide range of dog behavioral issues and two years of experience in specialized dog scent work for federal law enforcement. Lalo's love for dogs, genuine passion for dog training, and expertise ...


  • Aimee Burton- Owner Photo

    Aimee Burton- Owner

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    Aimee was born and raised in San Diego and is the daughter of a veterinarian. Her mother ran and operated their 3 veterinary hospitals where she grew up helping out after school with the family business. She also grew up with many other types of animals. Goats, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens, turkeys, ducks, rabbits and horses that were on her grandparents' small farm in Ramona, where she spent he...


  • Mason Cameron Photo

    Mason Cameron

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

    Mason is a dog trainer and behavior consultant with Instinct San Diego. Mason regularly works with a wide range of breeds and temperaments, and is skilled at complex behavior modification for fear, aggression, and anxiety issues, as well as life skills and puppy development. Mason is a Karen Pryor Academy Graduate and a L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator. Prior to working with Instinct, Mason previou...


  • Emma Castor Photo

    Emma Castor

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Emma’s experience with dogs began as a volunteer at a local rescue in 2018, working primarily with former street dogs from Mexico. By serving as a foster, adoption coordinator, and volunteer trainer, she became adept at helping dogs and their new families through the transition of rehoming. She also gained valuable experience with street dogs and the behaviors typical of their unique backgrou...


  • Jacquelyn Court Photo

    Jacquelyn Court

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Jacquelyn has been a long-time animal advocate and began training dogs professionally in 2016. She earned her bachelor's Degree from SDSU with a minor in Psychology, furthering her interest in the brain and how animals think.


  • Gonzalo Dremoniz Photo

    Gonzalo Dremoniz

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

    Hello, My name is Gonzalo. I specialize in building happier human-dog relationships utilizing your dog’s favorite rewards (toys, play, praise, food, freedom, etc.) and eliminating unwanted behaviors. My dog training sessions are about educating humans first. You will get a clear plan for your goals and learn the fundamentals of teaching/training your dog. For me there is nothing more satisfyi...


  • Tom Fulcher Photo

    Tom Fulcher

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Tom is a United States Marine Corps Veteran and expert dog trainer. His extensive knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques comes from his years of intensive study on dog training, attending seminars and workshops, and working with some of the best trainers in the country.

    Tom’s passion for working with dogs and dedication in helping others develop a positive and fulfilling r...


  • Carol Harris Photo

    Carol Harris

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Carol has loved animals all her days and has devoted her professional life to animal studies, training and behavior modification. Carol holds a certification in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington and has studied under James Ha, CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist), Ph.D., one of the foremost animal behaviorists

    Since the early 1990s, Carol is been a highl...


  • Michael Harris Photo

    Michael Harris

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Michael earned degrees in Life and Physical Sciences, and earned the certification for Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington. He participates with Carol in conducting research projects with Dr. Ha, providing scientific and mathematical expertise and support.

    ​Before joining Carol as The Educated Pet’s office manager, assistant trainer and behaviorist in 2012, M...


  • Ashley Larsen Photo

    Ashley Larsen

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Ashley Larsen, also known as “Larsen”, started working with dog shelters and rescue barns in 2007. Fascinated by the influence of nature via nurture, Larsen obtained her Bachelors in Neuropsychology at UC Berkeley. Using a scientific lens, she assesses the whole dog by looking at what impacts behavior, such as genetics, environment, needs, and neurodevelopment.


  • Sara Maguire Photo

    Sara Maguire

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

    Sara is a wonderful dog trainer and animal lover. She has extensive experience in specialty behavior training such as: house manners, barking, separation anxiety, fearfulness, aggression, leash reactivity and more.

    Sara has worked with dogs professionally for over 20 years including: competing in confirmation and obedience, preforming behavior evaluations for off-leash play, dog husban...


  • Amanda Martin Photo

    Amanda Martin

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    For over two decades, coaching and educating people has always been a passion of Amanda's. Over the years, Amanda has realized there was something else she needed to do in life. She needed to not just help people but also make more of a difference in animals' lives.

    ‚ÄãHuman or non-human, Amanda believes we all deserve a chance at being our best selves, and with a little help and con...


  • Jessica McCloskey Photo

    Jessica McCloskey

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Jessica loved working with dogs from a very early age. She became a professional dog trainer in 2007. She was the Manager and Lead Trainer for one of San Diego's most sought-after dog training companies for over 10 years before striking out on her own with Finest City Dog Training in 2017.

    ‚Äã

    She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) and provides all levels of obe...


  • Tomas Natterstad Photo

    Tomas Natterstad

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Tomas Natterstad
    Owner, Founder, & Trainer
    From before Tomas can remember, animals have been his biggest passion. This passion drove him to begin his career in the animal care and behavior industry in 2009 in various shelters throughout the country. During this time, Tomas decided to complete a comprehensive course to get my dog training certification.

    In 2019, Tomas decided...


  • Mariah Orozco Photo

    Mariah Orozco

    Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Fallbrook, De Luz, Rainbow & Bonsall

    A Dalmatian dog mom, furever loving training and playing with puppers!


  • Alex Pederson Photo

    Alex Pederson

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    As the previous general manager of Pack Method Prep in 2019, Alex was driven headfirst into the dog training world. She applied her knowledge to her own dog that struggled with fear aggression and reactivity and after engulfing herself in the industry has become a certified dog trainer herself.


  • Lara Schindler Photo

    Lara Schindler

    ABCDT, CGC Evaluator

    Agility training, Puppy training

    Classes located in Ocean Beach and Point Loma

    Lara Schindler is the founder of Happy Dog Happy Owner and has over 15 years experience training people and their dogs. Lara has always had a love for dogs and an interest in dog behavior and dog training. During a stressful time working as a corporate trainer, Lara realized that she wanted dogs to play a more prominent role in her life, as they always brought her joy and happiness. It was thi...


  • Zoe Stathis Photo

    Zoe Stathis

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Zoe is the puppet master behind Pack Method Prep. She has been training dogs professionally for over a decade and is one of only 4 certified behavioral consultants in San Diego County. Throughout her career Zoe has achieved a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Syracuse University, assisted in growing and managing a startup dog daycare, expanded a small local training company into The...


  • Cassidy Stolte Photo

    Cassidy Stolte

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

    Cassidy is a dog trainer at Instinct San Diego who is comfortable working alongside dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments. Cassidy worked at a dog daycare before moving into teaching private and group training classes. She is skilled at obedience, manners, puppy development, life skills, and behavior issues including fear, anxiety, and reactivity. Cassidy is a compassionate and enthusiasti...


  • Dave Tann Photo

    Dave Tann

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    As a San Diego Dog Trainer, I offer positive, customized, low-aversion Dog Training and Puppy Training for you and your dog.

    I help dog owners to improve the relationship with and behavior of, their dogs, leading to a balanced and happy household.

    I believe in Dog Training with patience, praise, and science showing your dog how to be a calm, obedient, and happy family member.<...


  • Ashley Valentine Photo

    Ashley Valentine

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Ashley Valentine has a Bachelors Degree in Animal Science from UCONN and is a Nationally Certified Canine Behavior Consultant

    She has completed a Complete Canine Certification in Canine Aggression master course through world-renowned Michael Shikashio. She uses positive reinforcement, management, and safety techniques to help owners and dogs with all levels of aggression, leash reacti...


  • Erin Vejar Photo

    Erin Vejar

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    I started formally training dogs in 2006 after spending time volunteering with a local rescue group. I hung out at adoption events practicing basic training with the dogs in between meetings with adopters, and I loved seeing the adopters’ eyes light up when they saw that the dogs could follow basic training cues. I decided to take my first formal training program through Animal Behavior Colle...


  • Suzanne Veta Photo

    Suzanne Veta

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    A light-skinned woman with long, curly grey hair wearing a purple polo shirt sits in front of a swimming pool with three rescue dogs facing various directions
    Hi, I’m Suzanne! I am a former diplomat and lawyer, now a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) with a passion for improving the lives of dogs and the people who love them. I first got into dog training when I started fosteri...


  • Manuel Villanueva Photo

    Manuel Villanueva

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Training Director, Manuel Villanueva, is one of the most sought-after dog trainers in the United States and beyond. Manuel’s career started when he was just 18 years old (over 40 years of experience) and he specialized in training working breeds such as Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Shepherds. Manuel was one of the few trainers to study under Mr. Fon Johnson, a pioneer in the dog training world...


  • Bailey Wilson Photo

    Bailey Wilson

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Bailey is a United States Army Veteran and former Explosive Detection Canine Handler. Through this work, he gained a deeper understanding of canine behavior and psychology. Training and handling highly skilled dogs has allowed him to recognize the most effective training methods to better communicate with dogs, build stronger relationships, and achieve desired training outcomes.

    His ne...


  • Julia Wurster Photo

    Julia Wurster

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    Julia started working with dogs in 2016 while earning her bachelors degree in Cognitive Science at the University of Southern California. She was fascinated with behavior and learning theory, so opted to follow her passion into a career in dog training. Julia entered the field with Little Angels Service Dogs, training all types of assistance skills such as public access, task training and scent...


Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Puppy training in San Diego, CA is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Puppy training, we received 488 total votes, resulting in 34 dog trainers who focus on Puppy training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Puppy training listed first.

Dog trainers for Puppy training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Gina Esoldi, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Puppy training in San Diego, CA. Gina Esoldi’s favorite part of their job is: Seeing both dogs and clients bond transform as each gains confidence, knowledge, and skills to work side by side..

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Gina Esoldi, as well as the other dog trainers on this Puppy training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Puppy Training in San Diego, California

How were the top Puppy dog training dog trainers in San Diego selected?

We evaluated over 488 votes from local dog owners to identify the best Puppy dog training trainers in San Diego. This process resulted in highlighting 8 exceptional trainers known for their expertise in Puppy dog training.

What qualifications do the leading Puppy dog trainers in San Diego hold?

Top Puppy dog training trainers in San Diego are recognized for their expertise through certifications such as CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator, ABCDT, CCPDT-KA, CPDT. These credentials ensure they are equipped to address specific training needs in the region.

Who is the leading San Diego dog trainer in Puppy dog training and why?

Gina Esoldi is celebrated as the top Puppy dog training trainer in San Diego due to their impressive 184 votes and their proficiency in Service dog training and Puppy dog training, distinguishing them as a top choice in the area.

What behavioral issues do Puppy dog trainers focus on in San Diego?

In San Diego, top Puppy dog training trainers like Gina Esoldi concentrate on issues such as S, P, I. Other trainers might focus on areas like A, D, R.

What are the common training techniques used by Puppy dog training trainers in San Diego?

Training methods vary among top Puppy dog training trainers in San Diego. For instance, Gina Esoldi uses a method centered on: Training your dog whether it be for a companion, therapy work, or service is about trust, communication and most of all relationship. Your companion dog should be trained to fit your lifestyle, your family and your needs. Working with service dogs and veterans I have spent many years training and transferring dogs to their new teammate. Dogs will always perform for the trainer but is it transferable? My goal is to give you those tools to not only help in the process, but allow you to maintain the training for years to come!, while others like Sarah Surritt adopt: I help new pet parents train their dogs using kind, positive methods so that they can feel confident they can bring out the best in their dog and have an amazing relationship build on trust and joy. An initial consultation is starting point for all privates. Includes lengthy online application to gain dog's /family history/behavioral focus areas. Consult is in the home or online. Followed by a thorough follow-up plan for continued training/recommendations/management plan and package options for addtil support. For private ongoing sessions follow ups to clients vary based on their learning style. May include all/some of the following: text message summaries, email recap, video tutorials, shared google doc for goal tracking/daily tasks, daily or weekly check-ins with student. Access to our online client resource page with videos/printables is also offered to both in person and online students. All training is shaped, captured or lured. There is no use of punitive, aversive training or tools. I train using a marker signal (mostly a clicker) and teach students the same. Instruction style is verbal as well as hands on- I often use video to record and share for feedback and guidance as well. Each approach is customized to suit local dogs.

How should I select the best Puppy dog trainer in San Diego?

To find the ideal Puppy dog training trainer in San Diego, consider their certifications, such as CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator, ABCDT, CCPDT-KA, CPDT, and their expertise in services like Puppy dog trainingand In home dog training. Reviewing their past results with dogs in San Diego can also guide your decision.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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    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.

  • The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks

    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.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    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.

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