Welcome to the Georgia Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Georgia based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 45,000 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
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 compiled 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 100% 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 Georgia Dog Trainers in 2022
Hallie Wells
With almost ten years as a dog trainer, I've focused on service dog training, behavior modification, teaching people how to connect and train their own dog, and starting puppies for families with our Bright Start Program.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, UW-AABA, Fear Free Certified Professional, CGC Evaluator
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Fears and anxiety, leash and barrier reactivity, resource guarding, dog to dog aggression, dog to human aggression, separation anxiety.
Training methods:
Our training process starts with a free phone consultation to gather more information about the dog and their parent. We also have a short enrollment form completed before the first training session so we can start training right away at our first session!
At the end of the first training session, we discuss the best plan to move forward for their training goals with plans that include 1-10 training sessions. During our training sessions (in-person and virtual) the behavior is taught to the dog and explained to their parent, so after a couple successful repetitions with the trainer the parent is ready to take over and receive coaching!
All of our training is positive reinforcement and focused dog and human education and learning. We‘re here to make our dog and human clients feel safe, comfortable, and empowered to continue and maintain training after our sessions are completed.
Training can be done in the home, neighborhood, parks, and even dog friendly stores to help our clients reach their goals. Each session is followed up with an email that includes written and video instruction as well as relevant information on body language, behavior, valuable tools and toys, and more!
Service area:
Remote and Metro Atlanta including Atlanta, Decatur, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Avondale Estates, East Atlanta, Scottdale, North Druid Hills, Buckhead, Tucker, and Clarkston.
Website: https://www.lumosdogtraining.com/
Anna Johnson
Anna is the head trainer and owner of Happy Healthy Pup. She has been training animals for 20 years. She holds a Masters in Animal Science, is currently a PhD student and is CAP1 certified (competency assessed). She holds several other certifications.
Including those in Canine Theriogenology, Animal Behavior, Clinical Small Animal Nutrition, and Canine Emotion & Cognition.
Certifications: MSc CTP CNC CAP
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://HappyHealthyPup.com
Robin Sockness
Force free and science based!
Certifications: APDT, Pet Professional Guild
Services include:
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Leash reactivity, recall issues, basic obedience.
Training methods:
Force Free, positive reinforcement dog training works by using praise and positive actions or rewards instead of punishment to teach a dog right from wrong. The key with this type of training is to determine what motivates your dog and use that motivator as a reward upon correct performance.
In positive reinforcement dog training, you can use treats, toys, physical affection, verbal praise or a combination of any of those, to reward your dog for correct behavior, and to build the bond we seek with our dogs.
Service area:
We service Coweta and Fayette Counties.
Website: https://MyBestBuddyDogTraining.com
Melissa Dallier
Hi, I'm Melissa Dallier, Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT), a member of Pet Professional Guild (PPG), International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). I studied and graduated from The Academy of Dog Behavior, main emphasis on working with shelter dogs and dogs who struggle with fear, anxiety and stress.
About 6 years ago I brought home an 18 week old puppy, Rodger, I very quickly discovered he really didn't like being alone. I knew nothing about separation anxiety and made a ton of mistakes, but I needed to help him. So I started to learn. Then I fell in love with the intricacies of this debilitating behavior challenge and now my specialty is working with dogs with separation anxiety and separation related behaviors. Separation anxiety is misunderstood, misdiagnosed and severely mistreated.
My goal is to help educate and help as many dog guardians, trainers, vets and the general public about the power of systematic desensitization training and how there is hope for dogs with separation anxiety!
Certifications: CSAT, CPDT-KA
Services include:
- In home training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Helping dogs & their guardians overcome separation anxiety through the use of gradual desensitization
Training methods:
Using humane, ethical and evidence based training I work directly, intensively and remotely with clients worldwide. Writing daily training plans, tracking data and offering consulting to ensure that dogs progress in becoming more comfortable being alone by slowly exposing them through careful and gradual desensitization training.
Service area:
Remote
Website: https://www.acanineaffinity.com
Laura Clawson
Laura Clawson is a positive reinforcement trainer, working with dogs and their families to enhance relationships through effective management and skill building. Laura focuses on teaching families to better understand their dogs and their needs, and to set up their dogs, and the environment, for successful learning opportunities.
Certifications: ABCDT, VSPDT, Educator for Family Paws Parent Education, CGC Evaluator
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.unleashthepawsitive.com
Meredith Minkin
Meredith Minkin, CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, SDC is an internationally certified behavior consultant, a certified professional dog trainer and a certified service dog trainer. Meredith is a modern methods, reward-based trainer who works to minimize the use of aversive stimuli and maximize the effective use of reinforcers to modify animal behavior.
Meredith is also a Fear Free Certified Professional. She is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and completed her post-baccalaureate education at Tufts University. Currently, she is working on her Master's Degree is Applied Animal Behavior. Meredith was appointed by The Fulton County Board Of Commissioners to the Animal Control Hearing Board. She will serve the City of Atlanta and Fulton County as a professional expert, who will render advisory opinions involving pets that have been declared dangerous or potentially dangerous by an animal control officer.
Meredith was responsible in helping to create Canine CellMates, the jail dog program at Fulton County Jail. Meredith is a creative problem-solver who works with dogs with severe behavior disorders e.g. phobias, separation anxiety, and aggression. She regularly conducts behavior evaluations of shelter dogs for rescue groups and local animal control agencies. She has rehabilitated abused and aggressive dogs, she has worked with service dogs, customs dogs, military dogs, and has even handled dogs in the confirmation ring.
Meredith has trained multiple species of animals including, dolphins, parrots, rats, chickens, guinea pigs, coyotes, wolves, and cats. In 2017, she completed an internship at Zoo Atlanta, and worked exclusively with the resident elephants, Kelly and Tara.Meredith has worked with many celebrity clients including Usher, Emily Sailers from the Indigo Girls, Sean Mullins, Iggy Azalea, and Falcons' offensive guard, Andy Levitre, just to name a few.Meredith is currently a mentor for Victoria Stillwell's Positively Trainers and CATCH Canine Trainers Academy.
In addition, local dog trainers, behavior consultants, and veterinarians, attend her classes and seminars, and often refer their difficult behavior cases to her. Meredith works closely with Veterinarian Behaviorists. Several veterinarian students from Auburn University and the University of Georgia have completed externships in behavior with Meredith.Meredith has worked with celebrity dog trainer, Victoria Stillwell and has appeared on the show, It's Me Or The Dog. Meredith has appeared on the cover of the Atlanta Journal Constitution with her Jack Russell Terrier, Bullet. She has lectured at the Atlanta Kennel Club, and several elementary schools as a pet expert.
For the past four years, Meredith has worked with the District Attorney of Dekalb County to develop PAWS FOR THE CAUSE, an event focused on creating awareness for the abused and neglected animals of Dekalb County. Meredith continues to play an active role in animal advocacy, fund raising, and training for various animal welfare organizations in Atlanta. She has personally placed 1000+ dogs in responsible, loving homes over the past 18 years.
Meredith has experience as the Event and Fund-raising Coordinator for a non-profit 501(c)(3), no kill, rescue group whose main focus is to save high-risk animals from life on the streets, shelters and gas chambers. She has been a guest on the Animal Hour/1620 a.m. radio, has hosted interviews on WSB radio and Q-100. She has also appeared on Channel 2 and 11 speaking about the plight of homeless pets in Metro-Atlanta. She was also featured on CBS Atlanta's morning show, Better Mornings Atlanta. She has also appeared on CNN, 11-Alive, and Fox News as a pet expert.
Bullet was invited to race at the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge. Bullet has earned multiple titles, including "champion" in barn hunt, go-to-ground, super earth and lure coursing. She is the first dog in the United States to earn gold, silver and bronze metals in rally working trials.In December 2013, Meredith became a Judge for Barn Hunt, LLC. She has previously judged Brush Hunt events for the Jack Russell Terrier Club of America.In January 2012 and 2013, Meredith traveled to India to sharpen her pet dog training skills and completed courses in search and rescue, explosive detection, cadaver detection, tracking, gun dog training, guide dog work, and hearing dog work.
Meredith's personal dogs participate in nose work, tracking, rally obedience, toss and fetch (disc dog), flyball, agility, steeple chase racing, dock-diving, lure coursing, go-to-ground, super-earth, barn and brush hunt. Most recently, they have added "herding" to their resume.Meredith volunteers with PAWS Atlanta, Best Friends, Re-Leashed Atlanta, Atlanta Dog Squad, Atlanta Pet Rescue, Saving Shelter Pets, Atlanta Boxer Rescue, AARF-Atlanta, DREAM Dachshund Rescue, Lifeline Animal Project, Atlanta Weimaraner Rescue, Shelter Angels Pit Bull Rescue, BullsEye Rescue, Angels Among Us, and other private rescue groups. She also volunteers for Dekalb County, Animal Control and Fulton County Animal Services.Meredith is Pet Tech certified in CPR and First Aid.
Certifications: CDBC, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, SDC. She is an internationally certified behavior consultant, a certified professional dog trainer and a certified service dog trainer. She is also a Fear Free Certified Professional. She is a graduate of Mount Holyoke College and completed her post-baccalaureate education at Tufts University. Currently, she is working on her Master's Degree is Applied Animal Behavior.
Pet Tech certified in CPR and First Aid.
Services include:
- Board and train
Website: https://www.yourcaninephd.com/
Schelby Stuckey
I have been working with animals on behavior modification and basic obedience /command training for the past 10 years. In 2011 I started at Stone Mountain Farmyard training the goats, sheep and pigs. Not counting my experience growing up in which I worked in kennels and veterinary hospitals as well as having a slew of different animals in my home to practice on and build my passion.
I also have 6 years experience as a veterinarian technician starting in 2013 where I also worked with the animals and owners on basic obedience, and behavior modification as well as general animal health education. I am also CCPDT certified. Frogs to Dogs has allowed me an avenue to channel my diverse background into a positive change for our clients.
Certifications: CCPDT certified
Services include:
- Board and train
Website: https://www.frogstodogs.com/
Sniffspot Georgia Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Georgia dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia?
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 Georgia 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 Georgia cost?
Georgia 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 Georgia dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Georgia 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 Georgia?
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 Georgia was $29,205 per year and $14.04 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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