The Best Dog Trainers in Vallejo, CA of 2023

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

Lea Orloski

Lea has always had love and a natural talent with dogs growing up. She began working with dogs in 2006 as a dog handler and began observing and assisting with training dogs & classes in 2009. In 2013 she attained a certificate in training and behavior from the Dog Training Internship Academy created by Janis Bradley. A 6-month course that focused on positive reinforcement dog training, dog behavior and professional client consultation. She also has her CPDT-KA Certification from the The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

Lea is also AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator, a member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG) and teaches classes through Sirius Puppy & Dog Training founded by Ian Dunbar. Lea's passion for dog training can be seen through her work. She loves teaching students 'how to speak dog' and how to better connect with their canine companions. When not hiking with dogs, doing training sessions with clients or with her personal dogs, she is continuing her dog education through continuous hands on experience, seminars, conferences, webinars and books. Lea shares her life with an awesome husband and her canine companion, Gambit the Belgian Malinois.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, CTBC

Services include:

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

Why I became a dog trainer: I had a difficult dog, while learning about how to be better for him, I discovered I really liked dog training and it came natural to me.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing the success! Making owners feel like it's not the end of the world!

My #1 dog training tip: Consistency and clarity make all the difference in communication with your dog.

Service areas: Oakland, Richmond, Berkeley

Website: https://www.caninecentric.net/

Shane Stanis

I have been training professionally since 2002, and have a passion for supporting both humans and dogs as they navigate challenging behavioral needs.

I have an extra soft spot for shy & fearful dogs, and enjoy living with a pair of semi-feral dogs myself.

Certifications: IAABC CDBC, CPDT-KSA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided:

Behavior Consultant for fear, aggression, anxiety, Vet Behavior support plans.
Specializing in fear including semi-feral and rescues from trauma (hoarding, puppy mills, lab survivors, meat trade)
Private consultation & training in person and virtually
Online group program for shy & fearful dogs
Private manners & puppy training also available

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity towards all triggers, intra-household dog aggression, dog directed aggression, human directed aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, anxieties and phobias, fear, compulsive/stereotypic behaviors, support for Veterinary Behaviorist training plans

Training methods:

Evidence based positive reinforcement training (aka "clicker training") and behavior modification. I adhere to the ethical guidelines of both the IAABC & CPDT, and do not utilize aversive equipment or ethos in training. Certified Fear Free trainer for cooperative care (veterinary/husbandry).

Work together begins with an intake assessment, followed by coaching sessions in person or virtually depending on location, as well as dog's needs and ideal training plan.

Clients are given an outline of the training plan after intake, and support supplements including notes, logs and worksheets as needed between sessions.

Online program for shy & fearful dogs includes both individual training plans and group virtual coaching sessions live 3 times/month, as well as support lessons/assignments & video review

Why I became a dog trainer: I explored primatology in college, but started to believe I'd miss not being able to connect directly with the animals I was studying. I started volunteering at an animal shelter, and fell head first into dog training from there.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing the gears turn in a dog's head, and helping stressed owners begin to be able to feel like they can breath again.

My #1 dog training tip: Take a step back. We are often fearful that if we don't push our dogs we won't accomplish our goals, but this can backfire and ultimately slow us down. If we take a moment to assess what we can do differently, our dogs will do better, and we'll see real, lasting improvement.

Service areas:

In Person: Central & East Contra Costa County
Hybrid: Greater Bay Area
Remote: Nationally

Website: https://www.mightymuttsdogtraining.com

Sniffspot Vallejo Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Vallejo dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Vallejo 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 Vallejo 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 Vallejo?

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 Vallejo 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 Vallejo cost?

Vallejo 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 Vallejo dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

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

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 California Cities

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

Bakersfield, CA
Fresno, CA
Huntington Beach, CA
Los Angeles, 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
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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