Welcome to the Olympia, WA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Olympia 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. This list is a subset of the broader Top Trainers in Washington list.
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 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 Olympia, WA Dog Trainers in 2022
Ezra Tapia
Hi there, I'm a professional pet dog trainer & behavior consultant whose been working with pet dogs since 2010. My experience ranges from daycare, board & train, shelter, puppy school, group classes, daycare & train, & online & in-person private lessons.I love working with all types of dogs & challenges.
My passion in pet dog training is reactivity & cooperative veterinary/husbandry training. Continuing education is a cornerstone of my practice. Some notable CE courses I've completed in the last 3 years are Aggression in Dogs Master Course- Michael Shikashio, Handling Problem Behavior & Mistakes Seminar- Ken Ramirez, & LLA for Veterinary & Animal Professionals- Dr. Susan Friedman.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, Fear Free
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://olymoderndog.com
Heather Ringwood
Specializing in Agility and Advanced Manners training, Heather's heart, love, and training focus is in showing others how to have fun with her dogs. In addition to dogs, Heather also coaches and trains people. These two skill sets play a major role in her ability to help people communicate more effectively with their dogs, and learn how to embrace and engage with their dog's temperament and personality.
Heather is very active in the Agility world, both in teaching agility through HDI and in running her own dogs. She brings a wealth of knowledge in training and sporting, and working with the 'whole dog' from nutrition and impulse control to interactive games and physical exercise. She is committed to working with you and your dog to be successful in meeting your training goals.
Certifications: FDM, CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.happydoginstitute.com
Patti Howard
I am President, CEO of Your Canine Resource, Inc. in Olympia Washington, a thriving company which specializes in canine behavioral training and nutritional consulting. I bring 27 years of hands-on experience and extensive study to Your Canine Resource. My training techniques are grounded in rigorous research in behavior modification as well as the conviction that kindness, consistency and respect are great teacher companions.
A consistent contributor to the dog training industry, I am co-founder of Society for the Promotion of Applied Research in Canine Science (SPARCS). Although no longer actively engaged, I continue to support the organization's mission and annual conference. I'm also co-founder of Washington Assistance Dog Education Center (WADEC). WADEC is a non-profit organization that support service dogs and their human team member with disabilities.
My experience training service dogs gives me unique clarity and precision when helping people train and socialize their companion dogs. I'm a graduate, and in good standing, of Northwest School of Canine Studies (CCS), an intensive and thorough study of canine behavior. In addition, I hold a Bachelor of Science. Finally, I'm certified in Advanced Canine Nutrition and certified as Family Dog Mediator (FDM). I dedicate my education and passion to the canine loves of my life, whether they were under my guardianship or influenced through the relationship we build while training.
Certifications: Certified Canine Specialist CCS, Family Dog Mediator FDM, Advanced Canine Nutrition
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://yourcanineresource.com
Sarah Forde
I use the most modern, science-backed methods to produce lasting results that will make you and your dog happy both during and after training.
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://dogdefined.com/
Paul Grosart
Paul holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of WA, and has over 7 years of professional experience working with a wide range of species and breeds (dogs, cat, small mammals) on basic obedience, household acclimation, and a variety of behavioral challenges.
On their off time Paul expands their skill set by working with their own dogs in Rally, Nosework, trick dog training, and herding. Passionate about helping breeders and rescues a like, Paul continues to expand their knowledge of conformation and ethical breeding practices, focusing on community education around early puppy development.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, ADT-IAABC
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Common adolescent issues such as leash pulling, biting, impulsive behaviors.
Multi-dog households, new dog acclimation, and management.
Training methods:
All consultations come with a short training plan so people understand expected trajectory and areas of support and focus.
Service area:
Individual sessions are done remotely. Group classes are located at Happy Dog Institute in Tumwater WA.
Website: https://www.HappyDogInstitute.com
Ashley Alden
Ashley Alden is a distinguished graduate of the Northwest School of Canine Studies, a Family Dog Mediator (FDM), a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Presently, Ashley is the owner and operator of Bullishly Brilliant Behavior and Training, Instructor at Happy Dog Institute, and is the Program Facilitator and Behavior Head at Northwest Canine & Satellite Behavior Group.
A scientist at heart, Ashley has a thirst for knowledge and a desire to provide canines and their people with the skills needed to thrive. With this in mind, she regularly attends conferences and seminars to remain current on the latest research and best practices within the industry. For nearly a decade Ashley, her spouse, and their canine companions have fostered hundreds of dogs and aided in their transitions to new homes. As a result, she has a soft spot for misfit mutts and the humans who love them.
She currently resides on the outskirts of Olympia Washington with her husband, their 4 dogs (2 Great Danes and 2 Bull Breed shelter dogs), 2 cats, and ever evolving band of foster dogs.
Certifications: Certificate of Canine Studies from the Northwest School of Canine Studies (CCS), and Family Dog Mediator (working on my Peninsula School for Dog Trainers PSDT-A certification currently)
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity, stranger aggression, dog/dog aggression, basic cues, leash walking, house manners
Training methods:
Online interview, intake appointment, follow up appointments vary by behavior challenge
Service area:
Olympia, WA and surrounding areas, remote
Website: https://www.bullishlybrilliant.com/
Ursula Pettyjohn
In 2004, Ursula decided to leave Corporate America and follow her dream of a life working with dogs. Moving from the Seattle area to Olympia, Ursula has pursued that dream with passion becoming one of the preeminent dog trainers in the Puget Sound.
She greatly enjoys finding creative ways to work with dogs using a positive methods. Karen Pryor Academy certified and committed to positive training methodology, Ursula can help you and your dog live a better life together.Certified KPA CTP
Certifications: KPA-CTP
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Herding training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Dog/person reactivity, Loose Leash Walking, Puppy training
Training methods:
Clicker training, positive reinforcement
Service area:
Olympia, Washington (Off of Yelm Highway)
Website: https://www.leadmeontraining.com/
Sniffspot Olympia Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Olympia dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Olympia 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 Olympia 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 Olympia?
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 Olympia 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 Olympia cost?
Olympia 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 Olympia dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Olympia 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 Olympia?
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 Washington was $37,610 per year and $18.08 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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