Welcome to the Indiana Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Indiana 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 Indiana Dog Trainers in 2022
Andrea Burggrabe
Hello! My name is Andrea Burggrabe. I am a teacher and certified dog trainer who is dedicated to improving animal (and owner) welfare. I have two rescue dogs (Lena and Uno) who I love to pieces.I have several years of experience fostering and training rescue dogs. Through fostering and training, I have been able to help so many dogs to decompress and transition smoothly into their forever homes.
While I will train just about any dog who needs help, I enjoy partnering with several rescues and shelters to help dogs find and stay in their forever homes. I have a special place in my heart for helping all owners bond and connect with their dogs. My greatest passion is helping owners understand their newly adopted fearful, reactive, or aggressive dog. Nothing brings me greater joy than creating behavior modification plans to support dogs and their owners as they develop a true partnership and commitment to one another. Doing this allows the dog to decrease their fears and learn to trust and feel safe in the world around them, and allows them to stay in their homes and out of the shelter.
I Speak Woof strives to build trusting relationships between families and their dogs so they can most fully enjoy their canine companions. By providing educational resources for owners and creating individualized behavior modification training plans for dogs in need, dog owners and their canine companions develop true lifelong partnerships. All training is done with a LIMA training approach that emphasizes positive reinforcement and associations.
Certifications: ABC Certified Dog Trainer
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
I create individualized behavior modification programs for dogs with any sort of behavioral issues, including dogs that are reactive and/ or aggressive. My goal is to help you connect with and work in partnership with your dog, so that you and your dog can both meet your training goals together.
Training methods:
I am a LIMA trainer (Least invasive, minimally aversive trainer). I work with you to set goals specific to your dog, family, and lifestyle. This is typically done by completing an intake survey, initial in-home evaluation, and a customized training plan for you and your canine. This can be done in a slightly modified manner for virtual clients as well.
After each session, I send homework sheets and resources to help you and your dog be successful!
Service area:
Indianapolis; can service farther out, but may be increased fees depending on distance of your location (contact me for inquiries); remote
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ispeakwooftraining
Connie Swaim
I have been working with dogs for 15 years. I specialize in helping humans have a better relationship with their dogs. I will work with dogs with a bite history. I enjoy teaching people how to harness their dogs' noses so the dogs have more fun sniffing. I share my home with 2 German shepherds and a chihuahua and also am a member of a search and rescue organization.
Certifications: Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Aggression including dogs with a bite history, dogs that react to other dogs on a walk, fear and anxiety related issues.
Training methods:
I provide behavior consultations in your home to help you understand your dog and how to change your dog's behavior. I am a force-free trainer
Service area:
Indianapolis metro area, Henry, Hancock, Hamilton and Rush Counties, Also Remote
Website: https://www.connieswaimcaninebehaviorservices.com
Keelie Burkett
I have owned Click Treat Repeat Canine Coaching, LLC since may 2017. I offer force free board and train and boarding to Indianapolis and surround areas! I refer dogs who are better suited for private lessons to other force free trainers in Indy who I’m thrilled to See made this list as well!
Connie Swaim and Andrea Burggrabe are amazing trainers!
Prior To owning my own business, I was a trainer for Bark Tutor and Barkefellers a few well known dog training/dog boarding facilities in Indianapolis. I also used to work at Tails and Trails Rescue and Did everything from cleaning and caring for The dogs to giving them medical care to training and socializing them, you name it! I Got a lot of hands on experience caring For all types of dogs with various medical and behavioral issues.
It was while working at this rescue that I made a connection with Dr. Jennifer Cattet from Medical Mutts. This was the jumpstart in my career that I needed. I did an
internship with their program and learned so much of what I still use to this day! They are a magnificent organization who take dogs from shelters and rescues and train them how to be service dogs. I learned how to do everything from basic skill training to complex things like diabetic alert and Seizure response! I absolutely loved my time there and I still have a wonderful relationship with the whole team and we refer back and forth to each other.
When I first started training over a decade ago, we didn’t know as much as we do now. I am so happy to see the force free movement taking over and people changing the way we interact with our dogs and how we interpret our dogs behavior!
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.facebook.com/clicktreatrepeat
Mallory Kratimenos
I'm passionate about improving your relationship with your dog, helping you find joy in training, and engineering some optimism in both you and your dog's lives. I offer virtual training services where I coach you to train your dog in the comfort of your own home. I specialize in dog-dog reactivity, trick training, and cooperative care.
Certifications: VSA-CTD, FDM, CTDI, FFCP-Trainer
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity, Fear
Training methods:
From the comfort of your own home, I will coach you through custom training and/or behavior modification plans while checking in with you along the way to ensure that all learners are set up for success. After an initial consultation where we dive deep so I can get the whole picture, I will design a custom training or behavior modification plan, enrichment plan, and send a thorough initial consultation report with immediate advice.
From there, I offer training packages or individual training sessions where we continue together on helping to meet your and your dogs needs. My goal is to help you better understand your dog, focus on building desirable behaviors, and build confidence in your relationship.
Service area:
Remote
Website: https://www.engineeringoptimismdogtraining.com/
Kristen Board
Kristen graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Canine Science from Bergin University of Canine Studies in 2016, and then continued on to earn a Certificate in Training in Counseling (CTC) from Jean Donaldson's Academy for Dog Trainers in 2019. In 2021, Kristen became a Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Also in 2021, she earned her Master's Degree in Humane Education.
Kristen has worked professionally with dogs since 2015. She trained service dogs for Veterans with disabilities at Paws for Purple Hearts for several years and later worked as the Behavior Coordinator at San Diego Humane Society, where she trained dogs and cats who were experiencing behavior issues in the shelter.In addition to doing private one-on-one training and behavior consulting, Kristen also works with patients at Veterinary Behavior of Indiana as a Behavior Modification Trainer.
Certifications: CTC, CBCC-KA, Sa Pro
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Fear and aggression
Excitable behaviors
Leash reactivity
Basic Manners
Walking skills
Public Outings
Cooperative Care/Handling
Training methods:
Private consultations and sessions
Individualized written training plans and homework
Service area:
Indianapolis and all surrounding counties & remote
Website: https://www.perkedears.com
Vicki Palmore
45 years experience, happy to be of assistance to you and your dogs. Improving communication between dog and guardian.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, CFDM
Services include:
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
Website: https://www.brighthopedogtraining.com
Robbie Ritter
Since 2010, Robbie has been training dogs and their families, and she only uses Positive Reinforcement techniques. Robbie has earned her Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed certification through CCPDT, has a B.S. in Physical Education, as well as Canine Massage and WaterWork certificates. She also has current CPR and First Aid certification for small animals.
Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed certification through CCPDT, has a B.S. in Physical Education, as well as Canine Massage and WaterWork certificates. She also has current CPR and First Aid certification for small animals.
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.podiumtotaldogwellness.com/
Jessica Gosline
With twenty years experience doing rescue, training dogs and horses, and generally enjoying animals, Jessica has spent her adult life immersed in the world of canines. Raised with dogs, horses, rabbits, and cats alongside her large family in rural MI, Jessica is no stranger to animal nature. It is truly a God-given calling, Jessica specializes in fear and reactive dogs, helping them gain a new "leash" on-life, one that doesn't involve being afraid of all the things, or barking at every noise.
To balance out her work with fear cases, Jessica enjoys teaching puppies and adults alike basic obedience and common house manners for both those living alone with one dog or the whole family living with multiple dogs and everything in between. In your home, or at her facility, your dog will excel and learn how to be a happy, healthy, well behaved animal you will be enjoy being around.
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
Website: https://www.justlikemagic.biz/
Sniffspot Indiana Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Indiana dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Indiana 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 Indiana 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 Indiana?
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 Indiana 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 Indiana cost?
Indiana 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 Indiana dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Indiana 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 Indiana?
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 Indiana was $30,081 per year and $14.46 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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