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The Best Dog Trainers in Austin, TX of 2026

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

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

Whitney Spence
CPDT-KA
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Austin, Georgetown, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Sun City, Jollyville, Buda, Taylor, Cedar Park, Leander, Wells Branch, Hutto
Whitney has always had a love for animals. When she just started high school, her family lost their last family dog and decided to adopt a dog. This is when they adopted a Jack Russell/Black Lab mix named, Hollywood. Very quickly they realized they needed help as she was very people and dog reactive. They found a trainer and it opened Whitney's eyes to the world of dog training. She began to re...

Sarah Alvarado
CPDT-KA
Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training
I live in Troy and serve the surrounding areas including Temple, Belton, Killeen, Round Rock, Georgetown, Pflugerville, Hutto, Jarrell, and Salado.
Sarah discovered a passion for training and behavior when she took her first dog home from a local shelter while attending Texas A&M University. Throughout college, she worked in a veterinary office. She graduated with a degree in Animal Science in 2007 and began teaching group puppy and obedience classes in 2010. In 2014 she began working with service dogs. For three years she worked with ...

Pam Tobias
CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Austin and surrounding Hill Country
I've been training dogs for for 8 years, all at The Canine Center for Training & Behavior. I am currently owned by a rescued German Shepherd Dog who makes me a better dog trainer every day. Our philosophy is "Life is short, have fun with your dog" I teach sports - agility, hiking with your dog, dog powered sports. I also specialize in reactive and aggressive dogs, retraining their brains to mak...

Payton Brewster
Deaf dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Austin, Dripping Springs, Kyle, Buda, Bee Cave and Lakeway. Towns in Texas and Boulder Colorado in June 2023.
Hello everyone! My name is Payton, and I am a professional dog trainer with Training Dog Elite and an American Kennel Club (AKC) Evaluator (#115019). I offer training and services for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs, including: 🐾 Puppy Training & Socialization 🐾 Basic & Advanced Obedience 🐾 Service Dog Training 🐾 Therapy Dog Training 🐾 AKC Testing & Evaluations 🐾 Agility Training 🐾 Nose ...
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about Payton! She is currently working with me and my dog, Winston, on his service dog training, and I have been incredibly impressed with her professionalism, dedication, and genuine love for what she does. Payton is exceptionally organized, focused, knowledgeable, and patient. She has the remarkable ability to be firm and consistent while remaining loving, compassionate, and encouraging. She understands that successful training requires structure, trust, and a strong bond between the dog and its owner. What truly sets Payton apart is her attention to detail and her commitment to doing things the right way. She approaches every training session with a clear purpose, communicates expectations effectively, and takes the time to ensure that both Winston and I understand what we are working toward. Her calm confidence and positive approach make the training experience enjoyable and rewarding. It is obvious that Payton genuinely cares about the dogs she trains and the people who depend on them. Service dog training is an enormous responsibility, and I feel fortunate to have someone with her dedication, compassion, and expertise guiding us through this journey. Payton is truly exceptional, and I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone looking for a trainer who combines professionalism, high standards, and a genuine love for dogs. Winston and I are so grateful to be working with her!”
— Gina S.
“May all-time favorite dog trainer in Austin, Texas and surrounding areas. Payton is THE BEST!”
— Patrick O.

Maida Barbour
CPDT-KA
Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training
Austin area
Maida Barbour, CPDT-KA, has been training dogs in the Austin area for over fifteen years. She specializes in Assistance Dog training, including Service Dog, Therapy Dogs, and Emotional Support Animals.
She uses trust-based techniques to create a safe, easy learning environment for both dogs and clients.
Her background is in Cognitive Theory and maintains an ongoing education in animal ...

Tara Stermer
East Austin
For over 30 years, I have been helping owners understand their canine companions by teaching them how to communicate through body language and pack behaviors. Over the years I have researched and tested interactions, and cues, dogs use on each other, and developed our K9 Workingmind programs. I found it fascinating that dogs do not use pain or fear against each other as humans have been told fo...

Rona Distenfeld
Certified Integrative Behaviorist, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training
Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Buda, Kyle, Cedar Park, Manor, Bee Cave, Lakeway
I went from training horses using Natural Horsemanship methods to training dogs, and applying the same approach. I spent two years studying dog cognition and behavior as part of a mentorship program to learn to really understand what drives a dog's behavior. After working as part of the behavior team at Austin Pets Alive for 8 years I left to work with people directly to help dogs not end up at...

Michele Mendoza
CPDT-KA
Agility training
A lifelong dog lover, Michele started dog walking and pet sitting to earn extra money while working in corporate marketing roles. A long-term client opened her eyes to positive reinforcement training and inspired her to learn more about dog behavior. In 2010, she left the corporate world to open a training facility, training thousands of dogs in everything from manners to agility. After realizi...

Jennifer Burns
M.A., CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training
Austin and surrounding areas
My name is Jennifer Burns, and I am the founder of Conscious Dog Training. I am one of only 161 Certified Professional Behavior Consultant Canine- Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA) in the world. I am also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed though the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers, a Certified Fear Free Animal Trainer, a Professional member of the Association...

Anisha Murarka
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training
Austin
My love for dog training started with my own pups as they developed issues I had no clue how to manage. I sought out help from a trainer, but my dogs didn't respond well to force, fear, or intimidation. I started learning more about positive dog training, which lead me to became a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College in 2017. My initial goal was to help shelter dogs become more...

Erica Williams
Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training
Killeen, Harker Heights, Fort Hood, Belton, Nolanville, Temple
Im an Army Veteran and currently train service dogs for a non profit. This non profit trains service dogs for free for military and Veterans. I do also help on the side for behavior issues. In addition to that I assist training for Waco Agility Group.

Jennifer Higgins
Board and train, Off leash training, Puppy training
JENNIFER HIGGINS, owner of Lucky Star Dog Training, is originally from Paris, France. She is a certified canine behavioral specialist and is a graduate of Triple Crown Academy. She is specially trained in Dog Behavior and Psychology, Obedience Training as well as Service, Scent Detection, Retrieving, and Protection work.

She has studied with behaviorists in Europe and spent time workin...

Chirag Shah
In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Chirag has always been an entrepreneur, running his own startup in the past and also working in tech as a product manager, where his main goal was to understand what makes good experiences for customers and then find ways to make them even better and more efficient through the use of technology.

Tara Shah
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Tara is a linguist and a former teacher to students of all ages; she has taught children as young as 2 years old, all the way to adults over 70!

We are new to dog training ourselves but have learned so much by being part of the Sit Means Sit family. We are excited to share everything we and the experienced trainers at Sit Means Sit know with you so that you and your dog can forge a lov...

Christian Ramos
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
I never had pets as a kid because I have 7 siblings so that would've been crazy! Instead, I took on the life of a student athlete. I went to college in Colorado to study and play football, studying always being first. With almost a 4.0 GPA and a real chance of becoming a professional football player, life seemed too good to be true. After a senior year career ending knee injury and a weird turn...

Trisha Davison
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Trisha Davison has been surrounded by animals practically since birth, always having at least one dog and cat in the family. Early on she had a big fascination with horses and by the age of 12 her family rescued two Arabian horses that needed rehabilitation, both physically and mentally. One of the horses, Buddy, became her main focus, he was afraid of his own shadow and spooked at twigs on the...

Madison Alexander
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Working with and training dogs is the career I've always dreamed of doing. During my junior year in college, I completed an internship with the San Antonio Zoo. Throughout that internship, I got to participate in many training sessions with many amazing exotic animals. It was then that I realized training animals was what I wanted to pursue a career in after I graduated.During my senior year of...

Colby Patton
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Hey there! I‚'m Colby, and I'm on a mission to help you and your family build an unbreakable bond with your furry friend. I've always been a huge dog enthusiast, and I've discovered a way to merge my love for dogs with my passion for easing stress and trying my best to do what I can to help others with life's problems.A Journey from the Texas Hill Country to Trade ShowsMy journey began in the b...

Ashley Patton
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
Hey there, fellow dog enthusiasts! I'm Ashley, and you could say my love for animals started with Norman, the cool cat I adopted back in 2009. But it was in 2015 that I truly fell head over paws for dogs when I brought home Kenji, a spunky Akita Lab puppy who was just 4 weeks old.Kenji, my furry sidekick, was more than just a pet; he became my inspiration. Together, we embarked on a journey of ...

Francisco Diaz
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
As a child, I was captivated by the TV show ‚'The Dog Whisperer' introduced to me by my dad. Witnessing Cesar Millan's mastery in handling dogs with behavioral issues sparked a lifelong passion within me. Growing up in Mexico, I cultivated a love for animals, which led me to work as a pig farmer upon returning to the U.S. for several years. Despite my success in this field, my heart yearned to ...

Jayden Kurr
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training, Agility training
As a former dog daycare worker, I gained invaluable experience watching and interacting with dogs of all breeds and temperaments. This hands-on experience provided insights into dog behavior, social dynamics, and the importance of structured environments for their well-being.Now, as a dog trainer, I utilize this foundation to help dogs and their owners build stronger relationships through effec...

Justin Crawford
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training
I've been professionally working with dogs for most of my life. It all started many years ago when I worked as a veterinary technician. I loved helping but after a while I got burned out from all of the sickness and death (they call that 'compassion fatigue') after several years.

I then started working in dog boarding facilities in the Austin area and quickly worked my way up to manage...

Miranda Hitchcock
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Miranda began her work with dogs as a volunteer at an animal shelter in Maryland, and then taught puppy classes and reactive/fearful dog classes before moving to Austin. Among her shelter work, she was the Shelter Operations Manager for Austin Animal Center and oversaw the shelter's behavior program and animal care. Miranda is a "behavior nerd" who's passionate about equity and access in the d...

Eric Tarango
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Eric began dog training when he rescued his own dog who had resource guarding issues. In 2014 he moved to Austin, a dog loving city that helped him grow as a trainer. He shadowed a service dog trainer for a couple of years and was inspired to learn how animals thought and how they see the world. He started working as a dog trainer, teaching basic manners classes and private lessons for several ...

Olivia Tiffany
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Olivia got her start working in the kennel at DogBoy's Dog Ranch and eventually became the assistant kennel manager and a trainer for the company. There she learned about dog behavior, how dogs interact, and how to work with a wide range of breeds and personalities. She really fell in love with dog training when she adopted a black lab with leash reactivity. Helping her pup work through these b...

Devi Puckett
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Devi's passion for animal training and welfare was evident at an early age when her favorite phrase was, ‚can I keep it?‚ Her many pets have included reptiles, insects, tarantulas, rats, hamsters, hedgehogs, doves, parakeets, cats, and dogs - she has never met an animal that she didn't love. Her previous career as a high school teacher shaped her into a patient and accessible coach of people. W...

Kay Dameron
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Kay Dameron has been working with animals since a young age. She began fostering in 2015 and promptly became passionate about dog training when she saw the difference it made in foster's lives. Facilitating communication between people and their dogs to create better relationships brings her joy. Kay is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer, a Family Paws Parent Educator, and a CGC Canine Good C...

Nisa Semione
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Nisa is a certified trainer and dog behavior consultant, and is Fear Free Certified.. In 2018 Nisa began her career as a professional dog trainer in her home state of New York. In 2024 Nisa graduated with her Master of Science degree from Virginia Tech's Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare program. She is a believer in lifelong learning and has committed to continuing her education through the ...

Kaci Taylor
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Kaci started her deep dive into behavior study after adopting her now 6 year old dog, Buddy, and seeking certified help with his journey through reactivity, separation anxiety, and more. Positive science-based training became her passion after seeing how Buddy's quality of life has been impacted, and completed her dog training certification program with the Victoria Stilwell Academy in fall of ...

Lauren Biegel
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Following a childhood of begging for a puppy every Christmas (with 3 successes!), Lauren has taken every available opportunity to work with dogs: volunteering at local shelters, fostering, and working at a doggy daycare. Through her foster fail, Ollie, she learned about fear and reactivity behaviors and gained the confidence to adopt a high-energy puppy (Layla). Layla and Lauren have competed i...

Joanna Cordry
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Joanna has a Masters degree in Educational Psychology and a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, and she's always been fascinated by the behavior exhibited by all animals. She's been lucky enough to balance a career in behavioral health and disability advocacy with her love of all things dog and dog behavior . She's apprenticed with a service dog organization, worked on the behavi...

Lana Lesley
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Lana came to animal welfare and dog behavior training in 2018, after 23 years in the performing arts as a producer, performer and executive director. Beginning as a volunteer dog walker and eventually a trainer at a local rescue, Lana fell in love with every one of "her" dogs, and with the process of helping them learn coping skills and life skills. A lifelong learner, Lana completed the Master...

Alexandra Dilley
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Alexandra was the Director of Behavior and Training at the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, DC. During her time there, she worked with the ASPCA Behavioral Rehabilitation Center in Asheville, North Carolina, to develop HRA's first intensive program for severely fearful dog rehabilitation. She also taught classes on everything from obedience to dog reactivity. She has a Master's in animal b...

Andrea Carter
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Andrea's first job working with dogs was as a kennel tech at a small board & train facility, and her experiences volunteering with shelter dogs created a space in her heart for dogs who need friends the most. After teaching group classes at a pet store for 7 years she completed the Karen Pryor Academy to deepen her understanding of training. Volunteering with Service Dogs Inc. and working at th...

Rachelle Trafton
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Rachelle was born and raised in Austin, and grew up visiting the Austin Animal Center and hiking or biking every weekend. She started delving into training nine years ago when she adopted a six month old dog reactive dog, Lucy. I quickly was drawn into studying positive reinforcement training, and learning how to communicate with her. When the opportunities to train at PetSmart and DogBoy's Do...

Carolyne Castner
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Carolyne is a native Austinite and lifelong animal advocate. She started her work with dogs as a volunteer with Austin Pets Alive and the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter. She was fascinated by the work the behavioral teams did to help improve the life of long-stay shelter dogs and dove head first into the world of dog training! Carolyne lives with two cats (who are clicker and target ...

Latania Fenn
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Latania is an avid dog lover and a huge enthusiast of dog sports. She found an insatiable interest in dog training after getting her heart dog Atlas. They started dog sports and hit the ground running trying their hands at everything from agility, to scent work to barn hunt.
Latania found a deep love for the science of training and the way enrichment can help dogs thrive and strengthen the ...

Daniel Pena
Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training
Dogs have always been a passion of mine, and I've been fortunate to have owned several throughout my childhood. However, it was my time serving as a Military Police Officer that truly ignited my love for working with dogs. During my deployment to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn (OIF/OND), I worked alongside explosive detection MWDs (military working dogs) and collaborated wi...

Briana Stringer
Aggressive dog training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training
Briana Stringer was born and raised in the wonderful city of Austin, Texas. She has always had a love for animals and a fascination with animal behavior. Growing up, she managed to bring an array of them home with her to 'study'. Her childhood pets included dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, a red-tail boa, a king snake, ferrets, a cockatoo, an African gray parrot, macaw parrots,...

Shelly Haines
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training
Shelly is a graduate of the prestigious Victoria Stilwell Academy, where she spent countless hours working to obtain her certification as a qualified professional dog trainer (VSA-CDT) and Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP), supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), Professional member of Pet Professional Guild (PPG), and Association of Pet ...

Betsy Roberts
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Betsy Roberts combines a strong business background with a deep commitment to pet care. With experience as a former business management professional, pet care business owner, and puppy raiser for service dogs, Betsy has developed a comprehensive understanding of both the corporate and canine worlds. She holds an MBA, is Pet First Aid Certified, and is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Curren...

Cindi Fountain
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Cindi is a proud scientist at heart, embracing her geek status with enthusiasm. With a background in biology, psychology, and physical therapy, she earned a Master's degree in Education and TESOL certification. As a trainer, Cindi applies her diverse expertise to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) to the dogs in her care, fostering better communication between pets and their owners. Her a...

Cindy Platt
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Cindy lives for adventure, whether it's traveling or competing in agility competitions with her boxer Franklin. As the Train Your Own Service Dog Program Manager, Cindy helps people select and train their own dogs so that they can become certified service dogs. She enjoys teaching everything from manners classes to agility and service dog task training. Cindy has been a Certified Professional D...

Debi Krakar
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Debi Krakar founded the Dog Alliance in 2006 with a vision of improving the lives of families in her community based on our powerful bond with dogs. She is the driving force behind creating the therapeutic programs of The Dog Alliance. She has fostered over 1,000 dogs in her home and, for the past five years, always has at least one service dog in training with her 24/7. She has whelped 12 l...

Kathleen Reish
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Kathleen is the Agility Program Manager at The Dog Alliance. Kathleen merged her extensive experience with education and her love of dog training when she started teaching at The Dog Alliance in 2014. As an athlete and adventurer, agility work is one of Kathleen‚'s favorite classes to teach. She also loves agility work because it is a great sport for strengthening the bond between an owner and ...

Kellye McMaster
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Kellye McMaster has been competing in, training, and teaching dog Agility for 22 years. She has taken 3 of her dogs to AKC nationals, and has competed in AKC, USDAA, UKI, and NADAC competitions. Prior to teaching Agility in the Austin area, Kellye worked at a kennel board and train program and eventually owned her own training facility in Waco. She is a retired math teacher of 25 years and us...

Nancy McIntire
Aggressive dog training, In home training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training, Agility training
Nancy first joined The Dog Alliance in 2010 as a pet therapy handler, volunteering with her dog, Jessie. She joined The Dog Alliance Board of Directors in 2012 and served as Board Chair 2013-2017. Nancy's passion for working with people and their animals inspired her to work with our pet therapy outreach program, service dog program, and pet dog training programs. Nancy earned her certificat...

Cassandra Collins
Board and train, In home training, Puppy training
hough I am a certified, professional Canine Training and Behavioral Specialist; I still consider myself a forever student. I don't think I will ever stop learning about these magnificent creatures and the bond we have with them. My name is Cassandra Collins and I am the founder of Wise Tails Academy. I have been rescuing and rehoming the dogs no one wanted since I was a child with the help of ...

Welcome to Austin’s list of top dog trainers. The Austin, Texas list is based on 219 votes from the Texas Sniffspot community. Only the Austin dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Whitney Spence at the top of this list with 69 votes. We also counted 1508 votes for Texas, with the remaining trainers listed outside of Austin.

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

Austin dog trainer services include:

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

Behind every successful Austin training session lies a passionate professional. Whitney Spence shares why they chose this path: I used to want to be a veterinarian but realized how heartbreaking it can be so I switch to wanting to help dogs and their owners in other ways. There is nothing more rewarding than being able to help others build a strong relationship and trust with their dog.. All 48 trainers on this Austin list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Austin trainer, Sarah Alvarado, uses the following methods: I begin with a 90-minute consultation, during which I take a thorough behavior history and help clients set goals. If a dog stays with me for a Board and Train, we follow the dog's stay with private lessons and written guidelines for continuing to build and maintain behaviors once the dog returns home..

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

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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Austin

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

See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Austin

FAQ: Top Dog Training Services in Austin, Texas

How were the best dog trainers in Austin, Texas selected?

We gathered 219 votes from local dog owners to identify the top trainers in Austin. These trainers, including Whitney Spence, are experts in Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, and other diverse areas of training and offer tailored services in Austin to meet your dog’s needs.

What services does Whitney Spence provide in Austin?

In Austin, Whitney Spence specializes in offering Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training. Their services are designed to address a variety of behavioral issues, including: The most common behavioral issue I work with is when dogs display the reactive behaviors of barking, lunging, growling, or pulling on leash towards other people or dogs whether that is excitablity, fear, or frustration. Austin is a very dog friendly city with dogs everywhere and owners wanting to take their dogs with them to dog friendly places. My goal is to help the owner identify their dog's needs and wants to ensure they can have a common goal and interest as their dog..

What are the qualifications of Austin’s top dog trainers?

Whitney Spence and other leading trainers in Austin hold certifications such as CPDT-KA, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CGC Evaluator, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, which demonstrate their commitment to excellence in Austin dog training.

What is the most important tip from Whitney Spence?

According to Whitney Spence, the key to successful training is Always make sure you and your dog are having fun!.

Why are these trainers the best choice for dog owners in Austin?

Whitney Spence and others in Austin are the best choice for dog owners because of their specialized services, including Reactive dog training, Board and train, In home training and Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Off leash training, Puppy training. Their methods are effective in helping dogs overcome behavioral challenges.

How do Austin dog trainers stay up-to-date with training techniques?

Trainers in Austin regularly participate in continuing education and certification programs, such as CPDT-KA, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CGC Evaluator, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, to ensure they are providing the most effective and current training methods. Whitney Spence and their colleagues also frequently work with animals at Austin shelters, rescues, and so on.

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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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...
Best Toys for Herding Dogs: Keeping Your Pup Happy & Engaged
Herding dogs are amazing, intelligent companions. But that also means they need more than just a simple game of fetch. Finding the right toys for herding dogs is key to keeping them happy and stimulated. This article explores some of the best toys...
Tough Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers: A Practical Guide
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with the remnants of plush toys? Are you tired of wasting money on "indestructible" dog toys for aggressive chewers that don't last? Then this post is for you. We'll cover...
Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
Every dog needs to move, but how much is actually enough? The answer depends on more than just breed. Age, health, and even your own lifestyle all play a role in figuring out the right daily exercise routine for your pup.
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Best Dog Fields in the US: 25+ Wide-Open Spaces for Your Pup to Run Free
The best dog fields in the US offer something that traditional enclosed parks simply can't match: acres of open space where your pup can truly stretch their legs and run at full speed. From Colorado's 470-acre prairie meadows to Tennessee's...
Rottweiler Aggression: Signs, Causes & Training
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.
The Reactive Dog Chart: How to Calm Your Dog's Triggers
If your dog lunges, barks, or loses their mind at the sight of another dog, a stranger, or a bicycle, you’re living with a reactive dog (and you’re far from alone). Dog reactivity is one of the most common behavioral challenges dog owners face,...
How to Socialize a Reactive Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people—barking, lunging, or growling when they see their triggers? Whether they're a rescue still settling in, missed critical socialization as a puppy, or had a negative experience that changed...
What Is a Reactive Dog? The Complete Guide for Understanding and Helping Your Pup
Does your dog transform into a barking, lunging tornado the second they spot another dog across the street? You're definitely not alone. According to our research of over 4,000 dog owners, 66% of dogs show some signs of reactivity.
9 Best Online Communities for Reactive Dog Parents
Does your dog's reactivity make walks stressful? You're not alone. Many dog owners face similar challenges. This guide offers practical advice and support for managing reactivity, including finding the best online dog training for reactive dogs....

Sniffspot community guides

Best Dog Fields in the US: 25+ Wide-Open Spaces for Your Pup to Run Free
The best dog fields in the US offer something that traditional enclosed parks simply can't match: acres of open space where your pup can truly stretch their legs and run at full speed. From Colorado's 470-acre prairie meadows to Tennessee's...
The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States
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...
How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs
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...
Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me
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.
How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs
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...
Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot
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.

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2026
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2026
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2026
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2026
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2026
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog park guides

Best Dog Fields in the US: 25+ Wide-Open Spaces for Your Pup to Run Free
The best dog fields in the US offer something that traditional enclosed parks simply can't match: acres of open space where your pup can truly stretch their legs and run at full speed. From Colorado's 470-acre prairie meadows to Tennessee's...
Top 10 Indoor Dog Parks: A US Guide
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...
Best Dog Parks in the US: Ultimate Guide to Public & Private Off-Leash Adventures
Is your pup giving you those pleading "let me run free" eyes? Whether you're a new dog parent or a seasoned pro looking for fresh adventures, finding the perfect off-leash paradise for your furry friend can feel ruff! From sun-soaked California...
Dog Parks Near Me: Las Vegas Edition
Looking for the perfect dog park near me in Las Vegas? You're in luck! This guide explores all the best options for your pup, from public dog parks to private dog parks near me on Sniffspot. We'll help you find the ideal spot for playtime,...
Best Dog Parks in the US: Off-Leash Guide
Looking for the perfect dog park? Whether you need a wide-open public space or a private, fenced-in spot, this guide will help you find the best dog parks across the US. We'll cover top-rated public parks, the perks of private dog parks, and even...
Sniffspot: Portland's Best Private Dog Parks
Ready to discover Portland's best dog parks? Whether you're looking for a public park or the unique experience of a private Sniffspot, this guide has you covered. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your pup, with tips on what to bring, how...

Dog breeds

Best Dog Fields in the US: 25+ Wide-Open Spaces for Your Pup to Run Free
The best dog fields in the US offer something that traditional enclosed parks simply can't match: acres of open space where your pup can truly stretch their legs and run at full speed. From Colorado's 470-acre prairie meadows to Tennessee's...
German Shepherd Guide: Best Family Dog? Truth from 9K Owners
The German Shepherd Dog (GSDs) are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and striking appearance. They're also incredibly versatile, excelling as working dogs and devoted family companions. This guide covers everything you need to know about...
Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working...
Golden Retriever Advice: The Complete Owner's Guide
Golden Retrievers: they're gorgeous, playful, and incredibly popular. But before you welcome one into your home, you need the right golden retriever advice. This guide draws on the wisdom of nearly 10,000 Golden Retriever owners, offering...
Are American Staffordshire Terriers Good for First-Time Owners: Complete Guide
Think American Staffordshire Terriers are tough? Think again. While their muscular build might intimidate some, these dogs are known for their playful and loyal personalities. This guide draws on the experience of nearly 10,000 AmStaff owners to...
Australian Shepherd Facts: Breed Info & Care Guide
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and...

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2026
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

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 Austin, TX of 2026

Whitney Spence

Sarah Alvarado

Pam Tobias

Payton Brewster

Maida Barbour

Tara Stermer

Rona Distenfeld

Michele Mendoza

Jennifer Burns

Anisha Murarka

Erica Williams

Jennifer Higgins

Chirag Shah

Tara Shah

Christian Ramos

Trisha Davison

Madison Alexander

Colby Patton

Ashley Patton

Francisco Diaz

Jayden Kurr

Justin Crawford

Miranda Hitchcock

Eric Tarango

Olivia Tiffany

Devi Puckett

Kay Dameron

Nisa Semione

Kaci Taylor

Lauren Biegel

Joanna Cordry

Lana Lesley

Alexandra Dilley

Andrea Carter

Rachelle Trafton

Carolyne Castner

Latania Fenn

Daniel Pena

Briana Stringer

Shelly Haines

Betsy Roberts

Cindi Fountain

Cindy Platt

Debi Krakar

Kathleen Reish

Kellye McMaster

Nancy McIntire

Cassandra Collins

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Austin

See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Austin

FAQ: Top Dog Training Services in Austin, Texas

How were the best dog trainers in Austin, Texas selected?

What services does Whitney Spence provide in Austin?

What are the qualifications of Austin’s top dog trainers?

What is the most important tip from Whitney Spence?

Why are these trainers the best choice for dog owners in Austin?

How do Austin dog trainers stay up-to-date with training techniques?

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