The Best Dog Trainers in Las Vegas, NV of 2023

Welcome to the Las Vegas, NV Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Las Vegas 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 Nevada list. To learn more about our dog trainer contest, feel free to view the dog trainer contest post.

Dog training is one of the most important activities someone can do with their dog. Many come to dog training through a specific issue they want addressed, anything from barking to separation anxiety. Some have adopted dogs from animal shelters with an abusive experience and some just have happy puppies looking for everyday life skills. Trainers can help with all kinds of specific skills and issues, from leash manners to territorial aggression to anxiety around skateboards to common puppy challenges. However, what many discover is that working with a trainer is actually a way for a pet owner to deepen their relationship with their dog. The enhanced communication skills that result can increase quality of life, be a rewarding experience, be a social experience and lead to more harmonious relationships. Knowing that one’s dog is having a happier life can dramatically improve peace of mind. As the saying goes: happy dog, happy life. And it extends further than just the dog, to the pet owners. Owner empowerment can actually improve the relationship between owners. And finding the right trainer can make all the difference in the experience.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, which is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with all private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches and more. Sniffspot has worked closely with dog trainers to create safe spaces for dogs and our top trainer lists are a natural extension of that relationship. You can browse Sniffspot's local dog parks here.

The Best Las Vegas, NV Dog Trainers in 2023

Veronica Selco

Veronica Selco is the lead trainer at imPETus Animal Training. She is a Karen Pryor Academy Training Partner (KPA CTP), Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor Knowledge and Skills Assessed(CBATI-KSA), Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI) , Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI) and Certified Family Dog Mediator (FDM). She serves as a mentor for aspiring dog trainers enrolled in the Victoria Stilwell Dog Training Academy. She is also an AKC Evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen, S.T.A.R. Puppy and Trick Dog Programs. Veronica works with dogs of all breeds and sizes and offers behavior consultation and training services for families needing help dealing with dogs with fear, anxiety and aggression. 

Veronica has been helping people achieve behavioral wellness for more than 20 years. Prior to working with dogs, Veronica worked as a Clinical Social Worker, serving families in distress. Having earned a Bachelor's Degree in Child and Family Studies at California State University, Los Angeles in 1994 and then a Master's Degree in Social Work at Columbia University in 1997, her early training was in human behavior and counseling. Her work as a post-graduate involved helping families cope with trauma, assault, abuse and terminal illness. This challenging work prepared her for the behavior modification work she does with dogs and their families.

Veronica is a pioneer in the community and strives to elevate the dog training profession and is committed to a humane and effective, modern science-based approach when working with dogs and their people. She believes that learning is lifelong and should be fun for all learners. She is an avid and eager learner herself and participates in continuing education regularly. She hosts workshops and seminars for dog trainers and dog owners and attends conferences with leaders in the field of science-based animal behavior. She is also proud to host K9 Nose Work Odor Recognition Tests and Trials.

Veronica is a member of the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), Pet Professional Guild (PPG), International Association of Behavior Consultants (IAABC), Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and National Association of Canine Scent Work (NACSW). Veronica is a supporter of various animal non-profit groups dedicated to keeping domestic companions in their homes.

She is passionate about enriching the lives of companion animals, building relationships and communication with pet parents and is committed to helping dogs displaced in rescue. In her spare time, Veronica enjoys training her own dogs, traveling, wine tasting, crafting cocktails and photography.

Certifications: MSW, KPACTP, CBATI-KSA, CCUI, CNWI, FDM

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I offer private and group training in-studio, in-home and online. We have private and group training for puppies, adolescent dogs and adults. We train companion and sport competition dogs. We train dogs and their people.

Behavioral issue focus: I work with dogs with fear, anxiety and aggression.

Training methods: I'm committed to a modern, humane, force-free approach to training dogs and people.

Why I became a dog trainer: My own desire to enrich the lives of my own companion animals and my commitment to helping people led me on a journey to helping people build lifelong relationships of clear communication and trust.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Educating people about normal doggie behaviors!

My #1 dog training tip: Take it one step at a time and celebrate all small successes.

Service areas: Las Vegas, Henderson

Website: https://www.impetusanimaltraining.com

Vivian Pineda

Vivian Pineda is the lead trainer for the Puppy and Teen programs at imPETus Animal Training. Vivian is a Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer (VSACDT). She completed her dog training intensives through the Victoria Stillwell Academy in 2018, as well as a 6 month mentorship program at imPETus. Upon completing her training program, Vivian was invited to join the team and teaches Puppies, Teens, Tricks and Nose Work. Additionally, she prepares dog and handler teams for their Canine Good Citizen Certificate and therapy dog work. Vivian is also an AKC Evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Trick Dog and Fit Dog Programs.

Vivian immersed herself in studying canine body language and communication in 2015, when she obtained a full-time job running and managing playgroups at a doggie daycare. During that time, she also worked as a dog walker, pet sitter and led groups of dogs on adventure hikes. Prior to this, she volunteered her time to work with multiple species including chickens, goats and horses at ranches and veterinary clinics during her time in Reno, Nevada.

It is her mission to help people create life lasting relationships of trust and collaboration with their canine companions and to inspire people to explore FUN activities that offer enrichment, learning and joy. She strives to be a motivating teacher for doggy and human learners. Vivian participates in continuing education, attends conferences regularly and is dedicated to using a science-based positive reinforcement approach. She is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT).

When Vivian isn't training client doggies, she's playing and training her own pups. She is a proud Chihuahua Mama of 5 and also has a pit bull mix. She loves to stay active and fit! Her favorite activities include working out at the gym playing soccer, cycling, hiking, yoga and dancing. Vivian also dedicates her time to working with animals in rescue and fosters Chihuahuas with terminal illness.

Certifications: Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer (VSACDT), AKC Evaluator for the Canine Good Citizen, S.T.A.R. Puppy, Trick Dog and Fit Dog Programs

Services include:

• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Teaches Puppies, Teens, Tricks and Nose Work

Website: https://www.impetusanimaltraining.com/

Megan Crow

Hi there! I’m Megan, a certified professional dog trainer here in Las Vegas. In 2017, I made a choice that forever changed my life: I brought home a new puppy. Murphy was a troubled dog since the first night, his behavior seemingly unexplainable.

Once his seizures began, I started searching for answers. When I realized how I could help Murphy, I knew I could do the same for others. I fell in love with behavioral science and discovered dog training was my calling. I am always continuing my education to better serve the families I work with.

In addition to my CPDT-KA certification from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, I have a certificate from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, and a B.S. in Marine Biology and Environmental Science. I love volunteering locally at The Animal Foundation, and I hold group training classes at Barx Parx. I always use the least-intrusive minimally aversive methods to achieve the highest quality of training I can offer.

This is accomplished using a science-based approach and force-free, positive-reinforcement training methods. In lieu of traditional training methods that involve punishment for undesirable behaviors, I believe in teaching and reinforcing incompatible behaviors (e.g., rewarding a dog for sitting instead of jumping on guests at your front door). I will work one-on-one with you to cultivate a personalized plan intended to nurture your bond with your dog. My main goal is to help you build a connection, foster trust, and create mutual understanding with your pet so you can conquer anything together!

Certifications: CCPDT CPDT-KA, CATCH CCDT

Services include:

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

More info about service provided:

Looking for customized dog training programs tailored to your dog's specific needs? Look no further! As a professional dog trainer, I offer a range of services including puppy training, adult training, trick training, and day training.

My highly individualized programs are designed to help your pup learn and thrive. From socialization and cooperative husbandry to trick training, I cover everything your new puppy needs to know. And if you have an adult or adolescent dog, don't worry – I love working with them too! I use science-based and fun methods to solve behavioral problems and help your dog become a well-behaved companion.

Whether you need a 5-week or 10-week program, my services are tailored to your pup's specific needs. And for those with busy schedules, I also offer day training sessions. Contact me today and let's get started on the path to a happier, healthier relationship with your furry friend!

Behavioral issue focus:

Jumping on people
Barking excessively
Pulling on leash
Reactivity towards other dogs or people
Destructive behavior (chewing, digging, etc.)
Fear or anxiety
Resource guarding (food, toys, etc.)
Hyperactivity
Lack of focus or attention
House training issues
Excessive licking or chewing
Inappropriate chewing or mouthing

Training methods:

As a positive reinforcement dog trainer, my approach is centered around rewarding good behavior and using science-based, humane methods to help your furry friend become a well-behaved companion. I do not use any aversive techniques, such as shock collars, prong collars, or physical punishment.

When you first contact me, we'll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your dog's behavior and training goals. During this consultation, I'll ask you questions about your dog's history, daily routine, and any specific issues you're experiencing. I'll also observe your dog's behavior and body language to get a better sense of their temperament.

Based on our consultation, I'll create a customized training plan that addresses your dog's specific needs. This plan will outline the goals we're working towards and the steps we'll take to achieve them. I'll also provide you with guidance on how to reinforce positive behavior at home and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Throughout the training process, I'll use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and play, to encourage your dog to perform desired behaviors. We'll work together in short, frequent sessions to build your dog's skills and confidence, making the learning process enjoyable and fun for both you and your pup.

If necessary, I may recommend behavior modification techniques to address any underlying issues that are contributing to your dog's behavior. I'll work closely with you to develop a plan that addresses these issues in a safe and effective manner.

Overall, my goal is to help you build a strong, positive relationship with your furry friend based on trust, respect, and clear communication. By working together, we can help your dog become a happy, well-behaved member of your family.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer because I was struggling to find a trainer in 2019 who would use positive reinforcement techniques with my reactive and seizure-prone dog, Murphy. After a disappointing experience with a "balanced" trainer, I decided to take matters into my own hands and learn how to help Murphy myself. As a military spouse, I was fortunate enough to have the Air Force pay for my first certification, and I quickly fell in love with the training process. With my background in marine biology, I have always been a science nerd, and dog training fit perfectly into my life. Being able to help Murphy and other dogs like him has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I feel grateful to have found a career that combines my passions for animals, science, and helping others.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is watching the moment when a dog finally understands what I'm asking of them and offers the behavior perfectly. There's nothing quite like that "click" moment when a dog's eyes light up and they realize what they're supposed to do. But what makes this experience even better is seeing the excitement and joy on the faces of the pet parents when their dog finally "gets it." It's incredibly rewarding to see the bond between a dog and their owner grow stronger as they work together to achieve a common goal. Knowing that I played a role in helping that relationship flourish is truly fulfilling and makes me love my job even more.

My #1 dog training tip: One of the best dog training tips that I've learned and often share with others is to avoid repeating the same cue or phrase over and over again. While it may seem like you're being clear and reinforcing the behavior you want, in reality, repeating yourself too often can actually be counterproductive. Dogs are quick learners and respond best to clear and concise cues, so when you repeat yourself, you're actually teaching them to tune out your voice and ignore what you're saying. This is known as "learned irrelevance," where the dog learns that your words don't necessarily carry any meaning or consequences. Instead of repeating yourself, try to be patient and give your dog time to process what you're asking of them. If they don't respond right away, try using a different cue or breaking the behavior down into smaller steps to make it easier for them to understand. By avoiding repetition, you'll help your dog learn more effectively and strengthen your communication and bond with them.

Service areas: Las Vegas Metro Area

Website: https://www.themotivatedmutt.com

Eileen Koval

Eileen is a certified dog behavior consultant and provides personalized in-person services in Las Vegas and virtual services worldwide, all of which start with a Zoom appointment and discussion of your dog's behavioral, social, medical, and training histories while she observes and evaluates your dog.

She goes beyond the approach of traditional dog training and obedience by looking at the whole dog to find the "why" behind problematic behaviors. This enables her to craft cutting edge solutions unique to you and your dog's needs. Many of her clients have gone through multiple trainers and veterinarians who simply thought solutions did not exist.

Certifications: CDBC
CBCC-KA
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: Help for behavior issues including aggression, anxiety, phobias, fear, reactivity, guarding, separation issues, destruction, barking, etc

Behavioral issue focus: Aggression, intra-household aggression, guarding, fear, phobias, anxiety, stereotypic or repetitive behavior, destruction, barking, separation issues, reactivity, etc

Service areas: Las Vegas, Henderson, Boulder City, and Worldwide

Website: https://www.confidentcaninesdogtraining.com

Brad Norton

Brad Norton began his interest in dog training in the late 90 after meeting Dan Hosford when looking for a trainer for his out of control Labrador puppy. Dan is a highly sought after competitive gun dog trainer. He has been educating dogs and owners alike, to the highest possible levels, for some of the most difficult competitions in the K9 world for over 4o years.After working with Dan and his dogs for a few months I was hooked. Says Norton.

Dan Hosford realized Norton had a natural relationship with the dogs and their owners, so he took Norton under his wing and taught him to work with dogs. Norton traveled the country with Hosford for the next 8 years training and competing with dog after dog, expanding his education, as he met and trained with many of the best from all over the country. In 2008 Brad moved back to Las Vegas where he soon realized gun dog training grounds were not of great abundance.

After speaking to dog owners throughout the city, Brad realized the greater population of dog owners are suffering from a simple lack of obedience training for their four legged friends. Brad spent the next few years teaching dogs and owners obedience and developing a solid program that works for every dog.

Over the next few years, Brad explored detection dog training for security police. Teaching dogs to use their nose was a base of gun dog training, so this type of work fit right in. It was educational and fun but the world is saturated with detection trainers.Looking for areas where he could make a positive impact. Norton found a need for good Service dog and Therapy dog trainers. Norton continued to develop methods to meet these needs.

Today, Norton specializes in Therapy dogs, Facility Therapy dogs and Service dogs including Diabetic alert dogs and wheelchair assistance dogs.Norton now has Facility Therapy dogs in many schools throughout Las Vegas. These dogs do amazing work with the students and faculty in these schools.PictureNorton knows that a well-trained dog lends itself to a quiet, peaceful, stress free environment.

People always say to me, I really love my dog, BUT. he jumping on everyone, he pulls me on a leash, he runs away off leash, I wouldnt dare take my dog to the park, I think he hard headed, he not all there. All of these things stem from a lack of obedience and leadership. Your dog does not speak English and you dont speak dog, however through a solid obedience program you can learn to communicate clearly with your dog and expand your relationship to endless bounds.

Hosford use to say something all the time that really stuck with Norton over the years. Rarely is the dog the problem. It is almost always the owner.This has come to be so true. I have never met a dog yet that would not or could not be trained. Says Norton. Norton has learned that the dogs will always learn if given a clear and concise program to follow. We humans like to make things a little more complex with questions and ideas of our own. Dogs are much more simple.So over time, Norton has mastered the ability to train dogs and educate owners so they may continue the training throughout the dog life, thereby maximizing the dog / owner relationship.

Services include:

• Protection/guard dog training

Website: https://nortondogtraining.com

Angie Nerviani

My name is Angie, I am an accredited dog trainer with the IAABC and the owner of Pawsitive Associations, opened in 2015, in San Francisco California. I began my career working in animal sheltering and garnered much of my experience and education within this field. I was especially passionate about dedicating time to the dogs that could not be handled by animal care teams and assisting animals that fared poorly in the shelter. I have performed behavior evaluations and assessments, developed low stress protocols and training plans, designed calming routines to decrease anxiety, trained staff in defensive handling and committed to ensuring standards for welfare were exceeded in these environments.

It was during this time I discovered I wanted to help decrease owner relinquishment to shelters by working with owners who struggled with their pets challenging behavior. I specialize in helping people with dogs and cats that have aggression to both people and animals, and who may suffer from separation anxiety or generalized anxiety. I am passionate about my work and care deeply for my clients. My goal is to ensure you receive the coaching, support, and dedication you deserve so you and your pet achieve the desired training goals.

Certifications: IAABC Accredited Trainer

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Specialist in behavior modification for aggression, fear, anxiety, dog-dog reactivity, aggression towards people, and separation anxiety. Dedicated to teaching cooperative care skills for grooming, administering medication and vet visits. Obedience skills include, sit, down, stay, stationing, targeting, recall, heeling, and door manners. Potty training and crate training. Also focus on social skills and public manners.

Behavioral issue focus: Aggression, separation anxiety, fear.

Training methods: I provide behavior consultations, develop behavior modification plans, and management strategies and training skills for owners and their dogs. I use reward methods that increase desired behavior. I achieve behavior modification and training without the use of choke chains, prong collars, electronic training collars, intimidation, manipulation, and or fear to work with owners and their dogs.

Why I became a dog trainer: A passion for working with animals and their people.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people, creating happier dogs.

My #1 dog training tip: If you see a behavior you like, reward that!!!

Service areas: Las Vegas, Clark County, Enterprise, Summerlin, Paradise, Mountains Edge

Website: https://www.pawsitiveassociations.biz/

Sniffspot Las Vegas Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Las Vegas dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas?

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 Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas cost?

Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

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

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 Nevada was $30,714 per year and $14.77 per hour. It is impossible to say how much a dog trainer can earn with a full-service professional dog training company, because the size and profitability of companies can vary widely.

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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Nevada

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

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Oregon