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The Best Dog Trainers in Missouri of 2026

David Adams photo

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

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

  • Jennen Herbst Photo

    Jennen Herbst

    CPDT - KA, Fear Free, AKC

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

    Boone County - Columbia, Ashland, Hallsville

    I am a trainer in Columbia, MO. I do offer training for different types of things. I have started to expand more into reactive training which is the reason I originally wanted to go into training. I do like working with younger dogs as well to try to avoid these types of issues as they get older.
    In college, I was actually pre-med. After I graduated with my bachelor's degree in "Medicinal ...


  • Cait Patton Photo

    Cait Patton

    CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified, CGC, Currently studying for PhD in veterinary medicine and behavioral health, working on obtaining CBCC-KA

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

    St. Louis (city, county, and areas of Illinois)

    I'm Cait! I've been working with dogs for 20 years now! I have big goals of helping people understand scientific based methods and the benefits of doing so. I have not always been a solely R+ trainer, and I believe my honest was and ability to have open conversations about this has opened a lot of doors to help bridge the misunderstanding of what R+ is and the types of dogs it will work for. I ...


  • Karol Jean Thies Photo

    Karol Jean Thies

    CTC (Certificate of Training and Counciling), Fear Free Trainer

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Greater Kansas City Metro area

    Helping change dogs (and their caretaker's lives) in the greater metro area of Kansas City, MO since 2021. Using only fear free and force free methods based in science to help dogs and people better coexist.


  • Cindy Ludwig Photo

    Cindy Ludwig

    KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, AKC CGC/STAR Puppy/Trick Dog Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Springfield, Missouri area; virtual services available

    Experienced, master's prepared professional adult educator; experienced, licensed medical professional; professional dog trainer since 2007; graduate education and training in dog and wolf behavior and behavior modification in dogs; experience working with dogs in shelters for more than 30 years; experience training and certifying service dog teams for ADI-accredited organization; expertise in ...


  • Kai Murphey Photo

    Kai Murphey

    Pet Tech CPR & First Aid (May 2022), Canine Good Citizen Evaluator (May 2023), Karen Prior Certified Training Partner (December 2023)

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Columbia, MO and Boone County, MO

    Owner/Founder of The Devoted Dog (April 2021). BS in Wildlife Conservation, MS in Animal Behavior and Neurobiology.

    I started working with dogs as a young teen fostering shy, feral and reactive dogs that needed help building trust in people before they could be homed. I then worked with birds of prey as a volunteer at The University of Minnesota Raptor Center where I was introduced to ...


  • Agnes Kavalecz Photo

    Agnes Kavalecz

    Catch Certified Dog Trainer, Family Paws Parent Educator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Waynesville, St Robert, Fort Leonard Wood, Dixon, Richland, Rolla, Lebanon, Pulaski County

    Born in 1978 in Hungary and the love for animals showed its signs early on, as I started to saved animals when I was a child. Graduated high school and worked in Hungary till 2004.
    Started my dog training carrier in 2016 in the USA, and I never looked back.


  • Jody Epstein Photo

    Jody Epstein

    ACAAB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP

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

    St. Charles County, St. Louis City, remote sessions

    I have a masters degree in behavior and am proud to be the only board certified applied animal behaviorist in the eastern half of Missouri. I also hold my Certified Behavior Consultant Canine and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (knowledge assessed) certifications, and I am a Fear Free Certified Professional dog trainer as well. I have been training professionally for 16 years. I served one y...


  • Laura (Devine) Hills Photo

    Laura (Devine) Hills

    KPA-CTP, CPDT-KSA, CCFT, CTDI, VSPDT, Certified Fear Free Trainer

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training

    Laura is the founder and owner of The Dogs' Spot " Dog Training Center and Boutique, a 15,000 square foot facility in North Kansas City, Missouri, established in 2006. The Dogs' Spot's mission is to provide the premiere spot for Kansas City's community of dog lovers who want to employ the art and science of positive reinforcement, find that unique connection with their dog, and make new friends...


  • Meggin Finkeldei Photo

    Meggin Finkeldei

    CPDT-KA

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Kansas City Metro Area

    I am certified through CCPDT and am currently working toward my CBATI-KA certification. I have three dogs of my own who have behavioral needs as well as two amazing human children. I love helping people develop positive relationships with their dogs and leading them to a fear free life.


  • Tracy Martin Martin Photo

    Tracy Martin Martin

    MA, CTC, CSAT, CNWI, FFCT

    Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Kansas City, KS, Piper, KS, Shawnee, KS, Merriam, KS, Basehor, KS, Bonner Springs, KS, Mission, KS, North Kansas City, MO

    At the heart of Martin Training & Behavior is the founder and owner, Tracy Martin. Tracy has served the pets of Kansas City since 2006 as a pet sitter and dog walker and since 2012 as a dog trainer. Tracy holds undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Anthropology and a Masters in Experimental Psychology. Tracy is an honors graduate of the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers, a two-year, inte...


  • Kailey King Photo

    Kailey King

    CPDT-KA, Fear Free Shelter Certification

    In home training, Puppy training, Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training

    St. Louis

    Kailey is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and Director of Training, specializing in program development and community outreach. With a strong foundation in positive reinforcement methods, Kailey is committed to humane, science-based training that strengthens the bond between dogs and their people. Before stepping into their current leadership role, Kailey served as the Head Trai...


  • Chris White Photo

    Chris White

    KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA

    Agility training, Puppy training

    Blue Springs

    My journey into the world of dog training began in 2006. I was changing jobs every few years, but I could not find a job that left me feeling happy and fulfilled. I decided to chase a dream: to get into the animal industry. After some research I choose dog training. I took the plunge; I made a call to Animal Behavior College, talked my best friend into co-signing for my small tuition loan, and ...


  • Jon Conderman Photo

    Jon Conderman

    Board and train, Puppy training

    St.Louis, St. Peters

    Jon has been training dogs for about 10 years now, but his whole life has been centered around training animals. He grew up on a farm and often showed farm animals there, as well as trained the farm dogs how to work and herd livestock.
    .
    Jon has seen all scenarios in his 10+ years of training, including shelter dogs who were on their last chance. He was able to take those dogs, train th...


  • Barbara Miller Photo

    Barbara Miller

    CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, CNWI, Elite Fear Free Trainer

    Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    Kansas City Metro area, Jackson Co, Clay Co, Platte CO, Johnson Co, Wyandotte Co.

    MBA, Karen Pryor Certified clicker trainer since 2009, CPDT-KA in 2011, NACSW Certified Nose Work Instructor , Fear Free Trainer. Professional Trainers Workshop at Shedd Aquarium (Ken Ramirez) ; Living and Learning with Animals (Dr. Susan Freedman); Fenzi Sports Academy training camps, (Albany OR 2016, Purina Farms 2017, Wilmington OH 2018) ; 2017 Association of Professional Dog Trainers confer...


  • Jonathan Young Photo

    Jonathan Young

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    With over a decade of experience in Dog Training since September of 2010, I have honed my expertise through extensive education and practical application.During the years 2010 to 2012, I completed a rigorous 2-year hands-on training course that provided me with comprehensive knowledge in reading canine body language, dog behavior, handling, and training by working with shelter dogs. During this...


    “Jonathan Young was referred to me by my daughter who has used Jonathan a lot for different dogs. Jonathan is AMAZING! I have an Australian Shepherd, Colby. Jonathan is so good about not only training your dog but the owner also. Jonathan follows up & keeps in touch to see if there is anything he can do for you & your dog re training. Colby loves Jonathan and truly responds to him. I have also boarded Colby with Jonathan & he has always been well taken care of.”

    — Diana W.

    “I have know Jonathan for over three years. My Standard Poodle and I began group classes when Murphy was a puppy. Jonathan provided a great start towards helping us raise a confident, loving pet. I appreciated his knowledge and use on only positive reinforcement during sessions. Jonathan’s genuine care for the dogs he trains is exceptional. I have referred other friends to him who all have the same glowing reviews of his training.”

    — Janet L.


  • Mike Deathe Photo

    Mike Deathe

    Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) Certified Family Dog Mediator Certified Fear Free Professional Aggression in Dogs Master Course through AggressiveDog.com AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Kansas Charter Member of the Heartland Positive Dog Training Alliance (HEART)

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

    MO - Kansas City

    I'm Mike Deathe, founder, owner, and sole trainer at K.I.S.S. Dog Training. I have been professionally training dogs since 2008 and founded K.I.S.S. Dog Training in 2010. Over the past 18 years, I have conducted approximately 10,000 training sessions throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), Certified Family Dog Mediat...


  • Debra Murray Photo

    Debra Murray

    In home training, Puppy training

    Smartypaws owner and trainer, Debra L. Murray, is the only Kansas City area dog trainer specializing in kid safety and K9 manners. As a licensed Educator for Family Paws Parent Education, Debra offers positive reinforcement training for the whole family! Additionally, she is an AKC Canine Good Citizen and S.T.A.R. Puppy Evaluator, professional member of Heartland Positive Dog Training Alliance,...


  • Brianne Durham Photo

    Brianne Durham

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Brianne grew up in the suburbs of Detroit and spent her summers at her family cabin in northern Michigan collecting frogs and chasing wildlife. She attended a private college in Denver, CO, and obtained a degree in Veterinary Technology, later becoming board certified in Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Medicine.

    Brianne began competing in dog sports, which in turn led her to fal...


  • Sara Swanson Photo

    Sara Swanson

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Sara got her start in dog training when she was 12 years old by joining her local 4-h dog project, starting with showmanship, obedience, and agility. From there it blossomed into a beloved hobby of hers, and she continued competing in dog sports in AKC and ASCA. In 2019 she turned her hobby into a career when she joined Sit Now Stay. She has five Australian Shepherds and loves training and comp...


  • Sammy Hellums Photo

    Sammy Hellums

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Sammy is a Kansas City native and grew up in Raymore, Missouri. She began dog training in the shelter world and enjoys working with puppies and high drive dogs. Sammy has 2 Labs and enjoys doing AKC Trick Dog. In the future she would like to get involved with agility, dock diving, and disc dog.


See More Trainers In Missouri


The Best Kansas City, MO Dog Trainers In 2026

  • Laura (Devine) Hills Photo

    Laura (Devine) Hills

    Laura is the founder and owner of The Dogs' Spot " Dog Training Center and Boutique, a 15,000 square foot facility in North Kansas City, Missouri, established in 2006. The Dogs' Spot's mission is to provide the premiere spot for Kansas City's community of dog lovers who want to employ the art and science of positive reinforcement, find that unique connection with their dog, and make new friends...

    View profile

  • Meggin Finkeldei Photo

    Meggin Finkeldei

    I am certified through CCPDT and am currently working toward my CBATI-KA certification. I have three dogs of my own who have behavioral needs as well as two amazing human children. I love helping people develop positive relationships with their dogs and leading them to a fear free life.

    View profile

  • Tracy Martin Martin Photo

    Tracy Martin Martin

    At the heart of Martin Training & Behavior is the founder and owner, Tracy Martin. Tracy has served the pets of Kansas City since 2006 as a pet sitter and dog walker and since 2012 as a dog trainer. Tracy holds undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Anthropology and a Masters in Experimental Psychology. Tracy is an honors graduate of the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers, a two-year, inte...

    View profile

The Best Springfield, MO Dog Trainers In 2026

  • Cindy Ludwig Photo

    Cindy Ludwig

    Experienced, master's prepared professional adult educator; experienced, licensed medical professional; professional dog trainer since 2007; graduate education and training in dog and wolf behavior and behavior modification in dogs; experience working with dogs in shelters for more than 30 years; experience training and certifying service dog teams for ADI-accredited organization; expertise in ...

    View profile

The Best St. Louis, MO Dog Trainers In 2026

  • Jody Epstein Photo

    Jody Epstein

    I have a masters degree in behavior and am proud to be the only board certified applied animal behaviorist in the eastern half of Missouri. I also hold my Certified Behavior Consultant Canine and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (knowledge assessed) certifications, and I am a Fear Free Certified Professional dog trainer as well. I have been training professionally for 16 years. I served one y...

    View profile

  • Kailey King Photo

    Kailey King

    Kailey is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and Director of Training, specializing in program development and community outreach. With a strong foundation in positive reinforcement methods, Kailey is committed to humane, science-based training that strengthens the bond between dogs and their people. Before stepping into their current leadership role, Kailey served as the Head Trai...

    View profile

  • Jon Conderman Photo

    Jon Conderman

    Jon has been training dogs for about 10 years now, but his whole life has been centered around training animals. He grew up on a farm and often showed farm animals there, as well as trained the farm dogs how to work and herd livestock.
    .
    Jon has seen all scenarios in his 10+ years of training, including shelter dogs who were on their last chance. He was able to take those dogs, train th...

    View profile


Welcome to Missouri’s list of top dog trainers. The Missouri list is based on 879 votes from the Sniffspot community. Only the Missouri dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Jennen Herbst at the top of this list with 387 votes.

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

Missouri dog trainer services include:

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

Dog trainers in Missouri selflessly set pets up for success. Jennen Herbst shares why they chose this path: What I learned from my first two dogs on how to train dogs, made me want to share that knowledge with others. I concentrate a lot on building a bond and making sure there is mutual trust so that it is easier for both the dog and owner to navigate different situations. Having used multiple types of training methods, I wanted to expand the use of positive/fear free methods more.. All 88 trainers on this Missouri list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Missouri trainer, Cait Patton, uses the following methods: We always start with a consultation to ensure the dog lands in the right program (day training, private lessons, in homes, or classes). Depending on the severity of the issue, we partner with the dog's vet to create a collaborative approach. During our first meeting, we identify short term and long terms goals of the owner and help outline a structured behavioral plan which is both realistic for the owner and beneficial for the dog..

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

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FAQ: Top Dog Trainers in Missouri

How did Sniffspot determine the best dog trainers in Missouri?

After collecting 879 votes, we compiled a list of the top trainers in Missouri. These experts have proven their skills in Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, and more with Jennen Herbst leading the pack.

What sets Jennen Herbst apart in Missouri?

With certifications like CPDT - KA, Fear Free, AKC, Jennen Herbst offers a well-rounded approach to Aggressive dog training and Deaf dog training. They focus on Aggressive dog training, ensuring that each training session addresses specific behavior challenges.

What motivates Missouri dog trainers?

Jennen Herbst began their journey into dog training because What I learned from my first two dogs on how to train dogs, made me want to share that knowledge with others. I concentrate a lot on building a bond and making sure there is mutual trust so that it is easier for both the dog and owner to navigate different situations. Having used multiple types of training methods, I wanted to expand the use of positive/fear free methods more..

What’s the top training advice from Jennen Herbst?

According to Jennen Herbst, the key to successful Aggressive dog training training is Keep training as positive as possible and avoid pushing a dog too far, too soon which can break the bond and trust they have in the owner..

What do other trainers recommend in Missouri?

Cait Patton suggests focusing on Look at things from the dogs point of view! When we slow down to think what they might be thinking or what is causing them to behave a certain way, it greatly impacts our understanding of the specific dog and how we can adjust our training to benefit them!, Cindy Ludwig emphasizes Teach them right the first time!.

What qualifications do these Missouri trainers have?

All of the trainers on our list hold certifications like Aggressive dog training, reflecting their expertise and commitment to professional development. Many also volunteer with Missouri rescue organizations.

Why are these qualifications important?

These certifications ensure that the trainers are well-versed in the latest Aggressive dog training and Deaf dog training training techniques, providing your Missouri dog with the best possible care.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

Aug 7, 2026

Dog Trainers

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