Welcome to the Oregon Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Oregon 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 Oregon Dog Trainers in 2022
Brie Blakeman
Brie Blakeman, CPDT-KA, is a certified professional dog trainer and a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and the Pet Professional Guild. Brie started her professional career as a full time coach of the Training & Behavior Department at The Oregon Humane Society. It was during her time there that she discovered a passion for not just training dogs, but coaching the humans who raise and love them.
Raised her own two Siberian Huskies with challenging & complex behavior issues, put Brie in a unique position to hone her skills in working with 'out of the box' behavior cases that require a deeper understanding of behavior modification and learning theory. It was during this time that she found her love for working complex behavior cases centering around dog reactivity, vet phobia, and aggression. To boost her knowledge base Brie attended and graduated from leading aggression expert, Michael Shikashio's Aggression in Dogs Master Course, and studied cooperative care training with Laura Monaco Torrelli.
Brie continues her studies by regularly attending the most current, up to date conferences on canine behavior, taught by today's leading experts in animal behavior.While Brie received her professional certification in 2017, she credits her skill to a lifetime of working with and training animals. As a child, she raised her family's standard poodles, rats and parrots, spending all her free time training them to perform a wide variety of behaviors from potty training to tricks. At the age of 12 she started training western horses to perform Dressage/Hunter Jumper which really taught her a lot about how humans body language, handling and relationship with the animal plays a large role in behavior outcomes.
Her background as a public speaker, and educator has given her a unique ability to recognize subtle shifts that can be made to enhance the lives of both the human and canine end of the leash. This is supported with a deep passion in breaking down challenging concepts and methodologies into practical everyday use.
Alongside running her own business, Brie and her two huskies enjoy the sports of Skijoring, Rally Obedience, and Trick Training. Her three year old Siberian Husky Yuka has earned her Novice, Intermediate, Advanced and Expert Trick Dog Titles.Brie‘s greatest teachers have and will always be the dogs and humans she has the honor of working with every day. Brie credits her knowledge & work to Susan Friedman, Karen Pryor, Laura Monaco Torrelli, Leslie McDevitt, Susan Clothier, Jean Donaldson, Tanya Roberts, Donna Hill, Emma Parsons, Emily Larson, Annika McDade, Dr. Chris Pachel, Hannah Branigan, Grisha Stewart, Ken Ramirez, Pamela Reid, Patricia B. McConnell and many more!
Credentials: Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog TrainersAggression In Dogs Master Course GraduateBoard member for Whole Dog Academy, Portland, ORVCA Northwest Veterinary Specialist Pet First Aid/CPRBachelors of Arts in Business Development and Interdisciplinary Arts
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
We routinely work with all kinds of behavior issues and have specialists for all needs. We are most known for our behavior modification programs to address more complex behavior questions such as fear, aggression, reactivity and separation anxiety. We are also known for our comprehensive puppy raising program.
Noble Woof Dog Training is committed to humane education that will guide you and your dog into the best relationship you can share while fostering effective and lasting behavior change. Good relationships are centered around trust, free of coercion, and are built on a foundation of respect, compassion, and evidence backed learning theory. We teach you to think like a trainer, starting with understanding what we call the Four Pillars of Training.
Training methods:
We use marker training to build desired behaviors and modify undesirable ones. A marker is always followed with reinforcement that the dog desired. Most commonly we reinforce desired behaviors with treats, toys, praise and/or access to the environment. We focus on using an "errorless learning" pedagogy. This means that we strive to set the animal up to be "right" every step of the way. We believe that if we are doing our best, the dog does not have to make errors to learn what we want them to learn. This creates a dog who is confident in the classroom and LOVES it too.
Every training plan is customized to you and your dog's personal needs. Each private coaching session is rich with practical dog training tools and exercises for you to practice. After every session you will receive a cloud storage training folder complete with a post-session recaps, video notes, and a custom handout library.
Service area:
Portland Oregon & Remote
Website: https://www.noblewoof.com
Lorenzo Jasis-Wallace
Lorenzo is a games-based concept trainer from Kentucky, with a strong background in emergency services, outdoor expedition leadership, and relationship-based care for children, teens, and young adults struggling with acute and chronic trauma in various institutions. Utilizing their education in neurophysiology, ethology, and trauma-informed care, Lorenzo specializes in working with dogs demonstrating complex and severe behavior issues, such as fear, aggression, and handling/ vet phobia.
They are dedicated to prioritizing animal welfare, consensual interactions, trusting relationships, and enthusiastic engagement throughout the training process.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, FF, FDM etc
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Tera offers Puppy Consults for pups under 6 months of age. She helps identify potential red flags and creates a training plan for puppies that are nervous, over stimulated, fearful, shy or reactive.
Training methods:
Tera uses positive training and enrichment to help train dogs.
Service area:
Lane County, Eugene, Springfield Oregon and remote if needed
Website: https://www.synergybehavior.com
Tera Dschaak-James
I am a partner with Training Spot Dog Training in Eugene Oregon. Helping pet parents communicate with their dogs is my passion! I have been training for over 7 years and work with all breeds and behaviors. I teach classes and do private lessons in our facility.
Certifications: KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, ANIMAL BEHAVIOR COLLEGE
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.trainingspot.us
Kelsey Weber
I am a Certified Dog Trainer and Family Dog Mediator, specializing in helping families with their pet dogs. Most commonly, I work with puppies, anxious/fearful dogs, and reactive dogs through positive, humane training methods.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, ABCDT, FDM
Services include:
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Every family is different and every family dog is different. We work on helping both parties get their needs met and communicate effectively with each other. This means that we cover everything from potty training to social skills, leash walking to reactivity, anxiety to aggression, and so much more.
Training methods:
Though we have many options, the best way to get started is through a virtual private session. Here we meet over Zoom to discuss all of the details of your situation so we can create the best training program for you and your dog. Once started, we have both virtual and in person training options available, depending on what will be the most helpful. A few of our supplemental options include, puppy play sessions, training walks, monthly meetups, and a pet parent support group.
This training program is about teaching your dog how to successfully navigate your world. We will use positive training methods to build the dog's skillset, their confidence, and their comfort level, so they are able to self-regulate and cope with the modern family environment.
Service area:
The Pawsitively Trained Studio is located in Sherwood, Oregon. Here is where we host most of our in person services. Since our virtual platform is available online though, we can remotely work with anyone in any location.
Website: https://www.pawsitivelytraineddogs.com
Kaia Wilson
My name is Kaia Wilson and I am the owner of DOGSPEED training based in Portland OR. I have been working professionally with dogs for the last 7 years, and am dedicated to Fear Free, Force Free Positive Reinforcement training. Compassion is always key, with dogs and their humans!
When I'm not working with dogs, I am playing music with my band from the 90's, Team Dresch, playing Ping Pong, or adventuring with my wife Nicole, and our 3 dogs, Pocket, Lirael and Ponyo.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://dogspeed.dog
Stacey Lambert
As a graduate from Karen Pryor Academy for positive reinforcement dog training, my focus is always on the client's training goals while prioritizing their dog's needs to allow them to feel comfortable throughout the training process.
Certifications: KPA-CTP
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Most of the clients we work with are struggling with some form of reactivity, whether it be leash reactivity toward other dogs while out on walks/hikes or stranger reactivity when new people are near/enter the home.
Training methods:
We start each new client off with a phone consultation with one of our staff members to gain some insight into why they may be reaching out for training help. If it is a more complicated behavior case, we will book a virtual session to complete a full behavior history assessment & discuss safety management, things we can change immediately to help alleviate some of the stress the dog and their family may be experiencing and what our training plan will look like.
We utilize all positive reinforcement methods and prioritize the emotional well-being of the dog throughout the training process. My main goal is to give families a better insight as to the "why" behind their dog's behaviors and start to change their emotional response to the world around them in a more positive way.
Service area:
We are based in Oregon and primarily serve the Eugene/Springfield area. Surrounding towns we serve include Thurston, Creswell, Veneta; we also offer virtual training services which allow us to offer training services anywhere in the country!
Website: https://luckydogcare.com/
Sara McLoudrey
Sara McLoudrey is the owner of Decisive Moment Pet Consulting and has been a professional dog trainer for 18 years! Over the years I have seen how our relationships with dogs have changed and even how the 'positive/force free/clicker' training world has evolved. I have seen it ALL. I specialize in Care with Consent (cooperative care), aggression towards people, resource guarding, helping senior dogs thrive, and living with intact dogs. While I specialize in these topics, I will, of course, see all types of serious behavior cases.
Currently, I offer personalized behavior modification programs, monthly membership communities, and virtual classes such as Care with Consent Foundations, Tip Top Toenails, and Muzzle Magic. In addition to working directly with clients, I also offer services for pet professionals - veterinarians, veterinary nurses, groomers, and training colleagues. In addition to my own business, I am also an Animal Trainer at Synergy Behavior Solutions, a veterinary behavior practice.
I started as a professional animal trainer in 2004, founding ROOT Dog Training in suburban Chicago. In 2016, she sold ROOT, moved to Portland, and joined the team at Synergy Behavior Solutions.Over the years Sara has completed with positively trained dogs in retriever field tests, high-level competition and rally obedience (Utility and RAE level), conformation, and elite level nose work. Currently, Sara shares her life with Rizzo, an American Water Spaniel, and Lindy, her Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, spending their free time enjoying the amazing SniffSpots around the Portland metro area.
Certifications: Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, CPDT-KSA, FearFree Level 1 & Trainer, LowStress Handling, FitPawsMT, TagTeach L3
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.decisivemomentconsulting.com
Connie DeBusschere
OSU Department of Animal Science Dog Behavior, APDT, AKC Canine Good Citizen, Trick Dog, Farm Dog evaluator/ tester
Certifications: OSU Department of Animal Science Dog Behavior, APDT, AKC Canine Good Citizen, Trick Dog, Farm Dog evaluator/ tester
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
We help dog owners turn frustration into fun! Whether its problem behaviors like jumping, pulling on leash, not coming when called, barking at other dogs or people, shy or fearful. We want to help.
Training methods:
We help dog and owners build relationships with trust and communication. This is done by teaching the owners how to listen to their dogs with their eye's (body language), reinforcing desired behaviors, teaching alternative behaviors to replace unwanted ones and building value in new behaviors that will last a life time. Our methods are hands free, force free, positive reinforcement and reward based. Training is offered in small group classes and private lessons. Behavior consultations are available too.
Service area:
Our facility is located just a few miles south of Sweet Home Oregon on 25 beautiful acres. Our climate controlled building spacious and designed for safety. We service Linn County, Albany, Brownsville, Lebanon, Sweet Home and other outlying areas.
Website: https://caninetrainingadventures.com/
Jennifer Joyce
Jennifer has been working with dogs professionally since 1999, and has always specialized in helping shy, fearful, reactive, and aggressive dogs achieve excellent quality of life. Jennifer' work was inspired by her Soul Mate doggie, Merlin, who suffered with severe fear, reactivity, and aggression toward humans.
Merlin was in rehab for a couple of years, and went on to have many safe human friends and phenomenal quality of life until the ripe old age of 15. Jennifer has helped hundreds, if not thousands of dogs and humans have safe, happy lives together, and cannot imagine a world in which she is not of maximum service to those clients she cares for.
Certifications: Certificate in Pet Dog Training and Behavior Counseling (Academy for Dog Trainers), Certificate in Group Dog Walking (Dog Walking Institute), Certificate in Pet First Aid (Pet Safe)
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
We work with all types of dogs, on a multitude of issues (and fun stuff!) from basic puppy and adult manners, to mild shyness, severe fear, anxiety, and aggression in all its forms. We also collaborate with Veterinary Behaviorists, Veterinarians, and other trainers as we help our clients reach their goals. Our aim is always high quality of life for all humans and doggies, and we go to great lengths to achieve that!
Training methods:
We use only science-based, force-free methods. After taking a very thorough history, we will send you a proposal for a small initial group of lessons, and from there we'll do a deep dive analysis of your dog before making a custom game plan that meshes with your lifestyle, and who your dog is, genetically, and personality-wise. We tend to nurture life-long relationships with dogs and owners, as we know how important continuity and consistency are. If we work with you, we'll be there for you, as long as you want or need us to be!
Service area:
Portland, OR, Vancouver, WA, San Francisco, CA, Los Angeles, CA, Phoenix, AZ - Remote Sessions Anywhere in the World!
Website: https://www.dynamitedoggies.com
Micaela Frank
Micaela is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, and a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner.
Micaela has been working with dogs in shelter settings and private homes since 2010. She has a special knack for supporting families through behavior issues they may be facing with their dogs, including fear, aggression, and reactivity. Micaela works regularly with a wide range of dog breeds, ages, and backgrounds, as well as owners who are both experienced and new to dogs. She has special experience with both blind and deaf dogs.
Micaela is especially skilled at guiding clients through the ups and downs of the behavior modification journey. She got her start in training in the shelter world, and spent several years as Trainer and Behavior Program Coordinator at Greenhill Humane Society's 1st Avenue Shelter here in Eugene, Oregon. During her time at the shelter, she taught the shelter dogs and the behavior modification volunteers using the same gentle, fun techniques as with private clients, and collaborated with other trainers to improve the lives of the dogs in the shelter's care.
She is very passionate about shelter work, and continues to provide support to the shelter in order to support Lane County's homeless animals. Her experience with a diverse population of dogs in the shelter has greatly enhanced the services she provides through Rockstar Dog Training, and she is skilled at helping dogs from any background.
Certifications: Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed, and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.rsdtraining.com
Jamie Walthers
Jamie is a Portland native who has always had a passion for animals and behavior. She received her BA from PSU where she started her career in social work before finding her way into her true passion of working with dogs and helping them and their people have better relationships.
She enjoys the company of all dogs but especially loves helping get puppies started on the right track early on, boosting the confidence of fearful dogs, and working together with reactive dogs to support them in being able to find calm as they navigate the world. She lives with her wife and their six dogs and enjoys taking them along for her favorite activities of running, hiking, travel and finding the best restaurants in town.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Fear, Reactivity, Separation Anxiety/Issues, Potty Training, Leash Pulling, Barking
Training methods:
I am a positive reinforcement based trainer offering both behavior consultations as well as owner absent training. All trainings come with a training plan and ongoing support.
Service area:
Portland metro & remote consultations
Website: https://www.sitstayfit.com
Gabrielle Urbani
I studied training and behavior modification at Whole Dog Academy in Portland, Oregon. One of my biggest goals in training is setting up a communication between you and your pup to help elevate your relationship! I aim to help you feel comfortable and confident, gain new skills, and enjoy the relationship with your pooch!
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.suburbanpooch.dog
Brittany Jacobsen
Brittany is a co-founder of BAE dogs. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who has been working in the field of applied behavior analysis and behavior modification with children since 2009. Brittany completed a dog training internship at the Dog Training Internship Academy in San Francisco, where she learned to train dogs using evidence based force free methods and graduated with a certificate in training and behavior consultation. Brittany is a member of
The Pet Professional Guild, and is fear free certified. She also completed her coursework in Malena Dimartini's Separation Anxiety certification program and is a now a certified CSAT. Brittany has an extensive background in volunteering at rescues and shelters and has volunteered with both Rocket Dog Rescue and the East Bay SPCA. She recently moved to Portland, Oregon and will be volunteering with the Humane Society starting in March 2022.
Brittany became a co-founder of BAE dogs when she realized there was a need for humane dog training services by skilled professionals and believes her unique background as a BCBA contributes to her success. She is a lifelong animal lover. Brittany rescued her own American Staffordshire Terrier, Lola, who has been the best addition to her family. She also has two cats, Lando and Wicket, and would adopt more if she could.
Certifications: BCBA, CTBC, CSAT, Fear Free Certified
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
"Separation Related Behaviors": When you leave your dog alone these behaviors may look like your dog vocalizing, having accidents, destroying exits or items, scratching the door, shaking, panting excessively, escaping through exits, restlessness (pacing or inability to relax), excessive drooling, injuring self, etc.
"Reactivity": Barking, whining, or lunging at stimuli on walks (e.g. people, other dogs, skateboard, bikes, etc.)
Puppy behavior: Mouthing, potty training, prevention of unwanted behavior by utilizing socialization, and some of the basics.
Training methods:
"Seperation Related Behaviors": We start will a complementary 30 min call. After this we set up an initial assessment where you practice an absence with the trainer observing remotely.
Your trainer will create individualized training exercises each day based on your pups needs. These exercises will take place 5 days a week, this includes the weekly live assessment, and two days off.
We take extensive data to help inform our decisions. This allows us to analyze all variables that may be impacting treatment and troubleshoot throughout the process.Daily support from your trainer.
"Reactivity": An initial consultation is required and from there a detailed training plan is created. These plans include: meeting your dogs needs, management strategies, and skill targets / behavior reduction targets.
"Puppies": An initial consultation is required and from there a detailed training plan is created. These will include information on how dogs learn, how to properly socialization to prevent unwanted behavior in the future, meeting your dogs needs, and some basic skills targets and potty training help if needed .
Service area:
For seperation related behaviors, this is done remotely so I can help dogs worldwide. For reactivity or puppies I do both in-person and remote. In-person sessions take place in Portland.
Website: https://www.baedogs.com/
Hayley Martinez
Hayley Martinez is the owner and trainer of Nakama Dog Training. She is committed to force-free training, with emphasis on balancing allowing dogs to express natural behaviors while behaving politely in the human world.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, FF-C
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.nakamadogtraining.com
Christina Gray
Christina has worked professionally with dogs for 10+ years as a private trainer, reactivity specialist, board-and-train provider, class instructor, puppy playgroup leader and mentor. Christina also does curriculum design and development for diverse learner populations.
She loves the mountains, behavior science, animal rescue and coaching humans as well as dogs.
Certifications: IAABC-ADT, Ph.D
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://greatheartk9.com
Lauren Rubin
Lauren is the owner and behavior modification trainer of Creative Canine Solutions. She has been training dogs professionally since 2014 and specializes in rehabilitating dogs with reactivity, aggression, fear and anxiety.Lauren's first dog, Loki, featured on the home page, trotted into Lauren's life as a 7 year old rescue dog. Unbeknownst to her at the time, he came with a history of aggression towards dogs and people.
Helping Loki overcome reactivity and anxiety inspired Lauren to help others overcome the same struggle with their own dogs. She began training in 2014 and has never looked back. Although Loki has since passed away, his legacy lives on in her work. In her free time, she enjoys watching sci-fi shows, reading novels, and going hiking with her husband and dog, Fenrir. She's also lucky enough to share her home with a cat named Sindri, who is a tolerant roommate.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, FFTP
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Dog-dog reactivity, dog-human reactivity, aggression, intrahousehold issues (dog-dog, dog-cat), resource guarding, leash reactivity
Training methods:
Behavior consultations and manners consultations to start, then training packages
Service area:
Springfield OR, Eugene OR
Website: https://creativecaninesolutions.com/
Urban Pawsibilities
Urban Pawsibilites consists of trainers Emma Brent & Meaghan Summerbell. We opened our facility in May of 2021 in the heart of SE Portland. Our facility offers daytraining, private lessons, and group classes.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.urbanpawsibilities.com
Jennifer Michaelis
We believe training builds a strong and trusting relationship with your dog, one where respect is a two-way street. Our training program is based on the effective and scientifically-proven positive reinforcement method. This means we use food, play, clickers, and life rewards (we like to say that positive isn't permissive!), which is just as important as what we don't use: side-effect-causing punishment methods.
A wide variety of group classes and private instruction with flexible scheduling will help you reach your goals faster and more efficiently. We train in-home, on-location and at our two dedicated facilities.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, RFE-CI
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
We work with all sorts of behavioral issues, including but not limited to: Over-arousal, frustration, aggression, separation anxiety, fear, conflict
Training methods:
We believe training builds a strong and trusting relationship with your dog, one where respect is a two-way street. Our training program is based on the effective and scientifically-proven positive reinforcement method. This means we use food, play, clickers, and life rewards (we like to say that positive isn‘t permissive!), which is just as important as what we don‘t use: side-effect-causing punishment methods.
A wide variety of group classes and private instruction with flexible scheduling will help you reach your goals faster and more efficiently. We train people and dogs in-home, on-location and at our two dedicated facilities.
Service area:
Wonder Dogs physically serves the Willamette Valley, Oregon including Corvallis, Philomath and Albany. We offer Zoom classes for anyone who would like to attend, no matter their physical location
Website: https://www.wonderdogstraining.com
Carolyn Rositano
Force-free, science-based dog trainer servicing Salem, OR and surrounding business. We feel whole-heartedly that dog training, and the relationship with your dog in general, should be viewed as a partnership. We take the time to get to know your dog and assess the emotions and reasoning behind their behaviors before we create any sort of training plan. Our main goal is to help you connect with your dog and live a happy and harmonious life.
Certifications: ABCDT
Services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://partnershipdogs.com
Anna Berg
Anna is a force-free dog trainer and owner of Dogs Unleashed and Fitz's Canine Consulting, a consulting company for those who are thinking of rehoming their dog, which provides resources, training and private foster-n-training. Her career in dog training started with her own human and dog aggressive blue heeler, where she became immersed in behavior modification along side a vet behaviorist in Portland, OR for over four years.
Through this experience, she has developed a passion for fearful and hesitant dogs, with a soft spot for working/herding breeds. She's currently enrolled in the Victoria Stilwell Academy, and hopes to test for the CPDT-KA and graduate from the Aggression Master Course in the winter. She has a passion for continuing education to keep up on the latest scientific methods, and regularly attends seminars and conferences.
She currently has three dogs, Zelda, Cleo, and Bandit, and is an active dog foster for those pups needing a fresh start., with three current fosters on her half-acre doggy sanctuary.
Certifications: Currently enrolled in the Victoria Stilwell Academy, and hopes to test for the CPDT-KA and graduate from the Aggression Master Course in the winter
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
Website: https://dogsunleashedpnw.com
Sniffspot Oregon Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Oregon dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Oregon 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 Oregon 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 Oregon?
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 Oregon 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 Oregon cost?
Oregon 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 Oregon dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Oregon 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 Oregon?
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 Oregon was $29,335 per year and $14.10 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.