The Best Dog Trainers in Buffalo, NY of 2023

Welcome to the Buffalo, NY Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Buffalo 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 New York 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.

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The Best Buffalo, NY Dog Trainers in 2023

Dawn Spencer

Dawn has been a animal lover all her life. She is pet certified in CPR, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, LIMA certified & Better Business Bureau. She owes 5 German Shepherd Dogs, and loves teaching them all something new. She enjoys trialing with them in different venues. Over the 25+ years, she has trained thousands of dogs in her career, from large breeds to toy breeds. Becoming a Dog Trainer was inevitable. When training with her, you become part of the Family. Training is a passion for her!! She works with a few rescues in the Orleans County region including, Bright Star German Shepherd Rescue, Make a Difference Rescue, Orleans County Animal Shelter & PAWS of Orleans. With PAWS, she does her training at Albion Correctional Facility training the incarcerated individuals to train rescues.

Certifications: Lima Certified, APDT, AKC CGC Evaluator, Pet CPR, BBB

Services include:

• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Obedience, Therapy Dog, Service Dog, Scent Training, Trick Dog, Group Classes, Private Classes

Behavioral issue focus: Basic Training to advanced Training, Resource Guarding, Confidence Building, Dog on Dog aggression

Why I became a dog trainer: Becoming a trainer was an easy decision, watching the transformation from day one until our session ends is my true reward. The love for Dogs pushed me to be the best I can be. Continuing my personal training along the way helps me help people and their dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The final result, seeing the difference in behaviors. Training the people to help their dogs become a better citizen. Ensuring they won't become a part of the system of shelter life or rescues.

My #1 dog training tip: My number one training tip is to be patient. Each dog learns differently, some catch on quickly, while others take time. Dogs are a creature of habit, so being consistent helps them understand what we are asking.

Service areas: Orleans, Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Erie, Niagara, Ontario and surrounding Counties

Website: https://eyeofodenk9.com

Lori Timberlake

Lori is passionate about strengthening the bond between owners and their pets. She is thrilled that she can devote herself to teaching Nose Work and Parkour classes, both in person and virtually. She is also dedicated to expanding both of these sports in Western New York which is why she is so involved with the National Association of Canine Scent Work and International Dog Parkour Association. She hopes Dog Parkour becomes as popular as Nose Work has in this community!

Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed, Certified Nose Work Instructor, Certified Family Dog Mediator (FDM), International Dog Parkour Association Certified Instructor, Drink With Your Dog‚ Certified Instructor

More info about service provided: We specialize in K9 Nose Work classes, private lessons, trials and events. We also offer Dog Parkour classes and I am approved to conduct IDPKA Training Level and Novice title evaluations. We also offer Drink With Your Dog Brewery Manners classes.

Behavioral issue focus: We work with many fearful and reactive dogs.

Training methods: Our classes focus on building confidence and having fun.

Why I became a dog trainer: I want to help people build a relationship with their dog. If they have a strong relationship, training and behavior issues will lessen.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching a shy or nervous dog become more confident.

My #1 dog training tip: When your dog is doing something you do not like, ask yourself why they are doing that. If you can't answer that question, find a certified trainer to help you answer that question.

Service areas: Buffalo Metro Area and also remote training

Website: https://www.dooverdogtraining.com/

Tori Ganino

Tori is an avid dog lover that originally went to college to study Psychology. After earning a Bachelor's Degree of Science, she adopted a 5-month-old dog from a local shelter. Almost immediately, behavior problems started to show where her new companion, Cooper, was afraid to meet people, barking and lunging whenever someone came near. Tori elicited the help of a behaviorist who's suggested technique was pinning Cooper dog against the wall and forcing him to deal with strangers that were approaching him until he emotionally shut down.

Tori knew that there must be a better, more humane way, and decided to take her passion for psychology and dogs and enrolled in the Animal Behavior College. Through their hands-on educational program and apprenticeship, Tori developed the skills to handle all training situations with a positive approach and graduated as an Animal Behavior College Dog Trainer (ABCDT).

Tori furthered her expertise by successfully passing the Certified Professional Dog Trainer Exam - Knowledge Assessed, earning the title CPDT-KA. Unlike many other organizations that offer non-standardized take-home tests, the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers requires at least 300 hours hands-on experience, references and the completion of a standardized test used nationwide. Continuing education credits are required to maintain this certification.

In October of 2015, Tori became a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Behavior Consultants (IAABC). This is a title that less than 200 people in the world have. In addition to an extensive written exam, requirements for membership include a minimum of three years and 500 hours experience in animal behavior consulting with client present, case studies, 400 hours minimum of coursework, mentorship as well as seminars related to the core areas of competency. Continuing education credits are required to maintain this certification.

In 2016, Tori became a certified Victoria Stilwell Academy Mentor, and Animal Behavior College Mentor.

Certifications: CDBC, CPDT-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Private lessons at the owner's home or in public

Behavioral issue focus: Dogs that bite, bark, or lunge. Puppies under 6 months of age.

Training methods: Personalized training programs using force-free methods

Why I became a dog trainer: Experienced hiring a trainer that used force and dominance methods. I wanted to learn a better way to work with dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing the transformation that the dogs and owners go through due to my programs.

My #1 dog training tip: Consistency is key! Make sure that you are implementing the training in all situations and not just during formal lessons.

Service areas: G.L.O.W Region

Website: https://callingalldogsny.com/

Heather Adams

I graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior in 2008. Since then I've had the great joy of helping hundreds of families enjoy their dogs more by making sure they actually listen! It's been very rewarding along the way.

I love teaching both dogs and people in our programs that help families with things like jumping, pulling on the leash and coming when they're called and even fun agility classes to help families teach their dogs to pay more attention to them. I also help dogs who suffer from reactivity, fear and anxiety as a certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor.

Our agility classes are perfect for families that want to join in for fun, but we've got serious competitors that love our classes too. My continuing education is now highly focused on agility with some of the best trainers in the world, so I can bring the latest and greatest techniques and training to my agility students.

I believe it's important to be a great dog trainer, but it's just as important to be a great teacher. After all, my job is to teach you how to train your dog. I'm a graduate of the Teacher Certification Program at the University at Buffalo and have practical experience teaching biology and science to all age groups, in addition to over 14 years teaching people how to train their dogs.

I also believe the best teachers are life long learners. And the best part is, there is always something new to learn to keep life fun and interesting! My mission is to bring my passion for dog training and teaching people together, to help you bring out the best in your dog.

Certifications: Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor

Services include:

• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: We offer private lesson programs and day training for pet dog obedience and manners for puppies and dogs of all ages and breeds/mixes; special training programs for dogs with reactivity, fear and anxiety; we also offer agility training through private lessons and group lessons in two locations. We specialize in off leash training and getting your dog to come when called no matter what!

Behavioral issue focus: Our most typical students have young dogs from puppy through 2-3 years old that have common adolescent issues like jumping up on people, greeting people and being wild when guests come over, pulling on the leash, chewing on things, nipping people, barking, and potty training problems. We also work with dogs who are reactive to other dogs or people, and those with fear and anxiety issues, like separation anxiety.

Training methods: All of our students start with an evaluation/consultation here at our training facility in Corfu, NY or online through Zoom or FaceTime. During that time, I observe and evaluate the dog's behavior, get a detailed history about the dog, determine what the owner's goals and preferences are for training and present all the options. I also describe and demonstrate our training methods, which include positive reinforcement methods such as luring and clicker training. Our programs are comprehensive and include substantial support, training equipment, video reference library and much more.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer to help people and dogs live their best lives together. Many years ago, I adopted a dog named Sadie who had severe separation anxiety and no matter how many classes we joined, she just wouldn't get better or come when called. I started my own research and tried just about every method out there until I came across a book by Karen Pryor called Don't Shoot the Dog. From there, I learned about her Academy and the rest is history. Sadie had a great life with the right training and understanding. My mission is to help people understand their dogs and use the kindest training methods that make more sense to dogs, using the way they most naturally learn.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love seeing the progress that my students and their dogs make and just spending time with them.

My #1 dog training tip: Set your dog up for success so that they can find out for themselves how wonderful it is to do the things you want them to do. If you get that right you'll having a willing participant, not just an obedient dog and training will be easy.

Service areas: Western New York, which includes the following counties; Genesee, Erie, Niagara, Wyoming, Monroe, Orleans

Website: https://heathersdogschool.com

Becki Klinger

I am a ABCDT graduate of 2015 Canine Behavioral Consultant of 2017 and currently working on my BA in Animal Sciences. I'm a firm believer in continuing education and that one can never have too much knowledge.

I am certified and studied in ethology, canine body language and communication, and Pet First Aid & CPR .

As a disabled person myself I find in transparency with my clients that we can better come to understand one another and the dogs involved.

Certifications: ABCDT, Canine Behavioral Consultant

Services include:

• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided:

Specializing in Service and Therapy Dog Training, also offers Family Dog Training. Group class and private lesson formats; specialized training for every human and dog.

Behavioral issue focus: Service Dog Task Training, Therapy Dog Training, Puppies, Family Dog Set-Ups, CGC Training & Testing, PPG Training & Tasting, and Prospect Selection

Training methods:

-Force-Free Training Philosophy
-Free Phone Consultation to Assess Problem Areas and Needs

Why I became a dog trainer: I received a devastating injury my senior year of college. As a result my life plans changed and I adjusted, taking solace in a job at a doggie daycare where I learned about reactivity and behavior modification. From there I began shadowing other local trainers and enrolled in numerous educational programs to gain both hands on knowledge and practical knowledge.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The instant a dog has that lightbulb moment, there's nothing more rewarding.

My #1 dog training tip: Meet your dog where they're at - they're not giving you a hard time they're having one.

Service areas: Lancaster, Depew, Alden, Elma, West Seneca, Amherst, South Buffalo

Website: https://caninekismetllc.weebly.com

Dana Manos

I graduated in 1999 from Rochester Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I became a Certified Professional Pet Sitter through Pet Sitters International in 2018. In 2019, I obtained my certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. In 2020, I obtained Fear Free Animal Trainer certification. In 2021, I obtained Fear Free Pet Sitter Certification. In 2022, I obtained my certification as a Canine Behavior Consultant.

My various positions over the past two-plus decades have given me the opportunity to develop advanced skills in handling animals and interpreting body language.

I have experience with a wide variety of animals, including exotics. I grew up with dogs as a child. As an adult, I have had a dog, 4 cats, a rat, a guinea pig, and various reptiles as pets.

My pet sitting and dog walking service areas include, but are not limited to: Depew, Elma, Lancaster, S. Cheektowaga, and West Seneca, NY.

My dog training service area includes most of Western NY.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, CPPS, FFCP, CCBC

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Fear Free, force-free, positive, reward-based dog training, pet sitting, and dog walking in your pet's comfort zone - your home!

Behavioral issue focus: I work with a wide variety of issues from basic manners to reactivity and aggression.

Training methods: Fear Free, force-free, positive, reward-based dog training, pet sitting, and dog walking in your pet's comfort zone - your home!

Why I became a dog trainer: I love helping people and I have always had a passion for all animals, including dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people and dogs coexist peacefully and happily in their homes.

My #1 dog training tip: Learn to read your dog's body language.

Service areas: Depew, Elma, Lancaster, South Cheektowaga, West Seneca

Website: https://comfortzonecrittercare.com/

Kristen Hanley

My name is Kristen and I am the owner of Dogology WNY. In addition to being a dog trainer and behavior consultant, I am a licensed mental health counselor and have been working in this field for ~15 years. I have a BS in psychology and English from SUNY Geneseo and an MS in mental health counseling from Canisius College.

For the past 10+ years I have been an active volunteer in local rescue. That started when I saw a dog posted on Facebook that needed a foster - he was first on a rural shelter's euthanasia list because he had been surrendered by his owners (so there was no hold time, like there is for strays). He looked just like our resident dog at the time, and became our first foster dog - and our first 'foster failure'.

Since then we have fostered over 80 dogs (and only 'failed' twice more). But that first foster failure dog - Gideon - had some fear and reactivity issues that began my dog training journey and lead me to pursue training and behavior as a second career - eventually enrolling in Victoria Stilwell's Academy for Dog Training and Behavior and then pursuing my certification with the Council for Professional Dog Trainers and accreditation with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

I continue to be active in rescue; and in addition to fostering and helping with behavior and training, have had roles including direct care and training of dogs in the rescue/shelter, mentoring new volunteers, and working with adoptive families to find a good match for their homes.

I currently live with my four dogs and husband in Niagara County. My dogs have titles in dock jumping, barn hunt, nose work, CGC, and my oldest and best boy is a therapy dog with TDI and the SPCA's Paws for Love Program.

Certifications: CPDT, ADT, FDM

Services include:

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

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, aggression, & puppy development

Training methods: Please visit www.dogologywny.com for info about my training process.

Why I became a dog trainer: I am passionate about helping dogs and people have a better life together.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs and people improve their bond.

My #1 dog training tip: Meet your dog's needs.

Service areas: Buffalo & North Towns including Niagara County

Website: https://www.dogologywny.com

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Sniffspot Buffalo Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Buffalo dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Buffalo 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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo?

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 Buffalo 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 Buffalo cost?

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

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

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 New York was $36,025 per year and $17.32 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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Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

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