Welcome to the Pennsylvania Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania Dog Trainers in 2022
Rachel McMichael
Rachel had always felt a deep connection to animals and began her career by doing volunteer work nearly 20 years ago. Within time, she became involved with larger rescue cases and as a result decided to further herself in the animal field by earning her degree in Veterinary Technology.
While in Vet Tech school she immediately noticed that animal behavior study seemed like an afterthought to the instructors; this really ignited her passion to learn. She began to mentor with local trainers and behavior consultants and absorbed all that she could. She learned a ton about the canine mind, behavior, and positive reinforcement and began to instruct
some very successful adult and puppy classes.
Rachel earned her Veterinary Technician degree in 2011 and went on to work for nearly a decade in shelters holding positions such as Veterinary Technician, Behavior Specialist, Assistant Director of Training & Humane Education as well as Humane Investigations Coordinator. She had helped thousands of dogs during that time – completing behavior evaluations and writing behavior plans for dogs that needed additional help.
While working in shelters, Rachel attended the Catch Canine Trainers Academy Master Class where she was a Graduate of Distinction and became a Certified Dog Trainer. She also is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor, Canine Conditioning Fitness Coach, Stunt Dog Judge & Animal Actors Evaluator through Do More with Your Dog. She is an AKC CGC and STAR Puppy Evaluator as well as a Mentor Trainer for Catch Canine Trainers Academy. Rachel went on to earn her CBCC-KA, making her the only Certified Canine Behavior Consultant in all of Butler County, PA.
In addition to her training and behavior work, Rachel has experience with energy healing and is proud to be a Certified Animal Reiki Practitioner. She offers many different services to concentrate on helping a dog’s mind, body & spirit through her business, UpSwing Total Pet Care. Rachel loves to learn and is constantly working to expand her canine knowledge. She also works a couple of days a week at My Dog’s Care Center in Harmony PA, offering group training classes as well as all kinds of advanced enrichment activities there.
Rachel is a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and a professional member as well as a Board Member for the Alliance of Modern Pet Professionals - Pittsburgh. She feels that keeping up with the science of the canine mind is truly vital to be a great trainer!
Rachel shares her home with her patient and loving husband, as well as five dogs, two cats, two birds and an old furry Tarantula. She believes strongly that the relationship between a pet and their owner is the most important thing to have and she lives by this philosophy daily.
Certifications: CBCC-KA, CCDT
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
I specialize in shy/fearful dogs, but most commonly I see adolescent jumpy and mouthy dogs that struggle with frustration intolerance, as well as dog and people aggression cases.
Training methods:
I usually request that a client sit down with me for a full behavioral consultation first to really go over the entire case, environmental factors, what precedes as well as proceeds the concerning behavior, full behavioral and medical history and more. From here we are able to get a pretty clear idea of what may be going on. Afterwards a report is written up and several options are available for behavior plans for the clients.
I use positive methods and believe that the relationship an owner has with their dogs is of utmost important to training. I add in a lot of relationship building into behavior plans.
Service area:
Butler County, Butler City, Evans City, East Butler, Brady, Slippery Rock, Callery, Mars, Nixon, Lyndora, Meadowood, Homeacre, Harmony, Prospect, Connoquenessing, Zelienople, Chicora, West Sunbury, Cranberry, Renfrew, Portersville, Pittsburgh
Website: https://www.upswingtpc.com
Tena Parker
Tena Parker has been working with dogs for over 15 years. She earned her Master's Degree in Education and her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology (with a "minor" in Physics, just for fun) from Sarah Lawrence College and is the head trainer for and owner of Success Just Clicks Dog Training.
She is a nationally Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), a nationally Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), is a member of the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers), is a Certified APDT C.L.A.S.S Evaluator (and instructor), and is a Certified AKC Canine Good Citizen and S.T.A.R. Puppy Evaluator. Tena's background in education has played a critical role in how she runs her classes, develops her curricula, and works with her individual students. Her deep understanding of how humans learn allows her to teach dog owners how to be very skilled trainers and teach them how to continue to help their dog.
Students quickly learn that having fun is an important part of how she teaches classes and interacts with clients. If training is not enjoyable, it's not likely to happen but if everyone involved enjoys the process, it's much more likely to be worked on and refined.
Certifications: Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT), Certified Trick Dog Instructor (DMWYD), AKC CGC Evaluator
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
We work with reactivity towards dogs/people on leash, aggression issues, troubles with guests coming in the home, resource guarding (food/toy aggression), fears/phobias, anxiety driven behaviors, arousal issues, and more
Training methods:
For private training, all dogs start with an initial consultation where we will get details on the primary behavioral complaints, provide some immediate solution, and use the information garnered to recommend a training package and create your custom behavioral modification plan.
We use science based Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive methods with dogs. We utilize clickers or verbal marker signals to tell when dogs are correct and use tangible rewards like food or toys. We want to emphasize the positives so we prevent as much of the unwanted behavior has possible while the dog is learning what they SHOULD be doing.
While we have a set of ethics with regards to our general philosophy, we teach each dog in front of us and use a wide range of techniques to help dogs learn what we want. We might use 3 different techniques to teach a down in a class with 7 dogs --all of those techniques are reward driven.
Service area:
We have a training center in Spring Garden Ave on the north side of Pittsburgh and students from all over our region come to us for lessons/classes. Our in-home service area is based on each individual trainer but generally north hills and the city neighborhoods--we do NOT service the south hills at this time.
Website: https://www.successjustclicks.com/
Michelle Carroll
My Training Philosphy: Embracing dog owners along with their challenges.Educating them about life from a dog's perspective.Helping them build a bond based on understanding, enjoyment, compassion & friendship.Sharing with them force-free and reward-based solutions to create harmony. Ever since I was 5 years old I always felt a special connection with dogs. Now, I know why. It was a God given desire to save as many dog lives as I can. Whether that meant rescuing them and finding them a home or helping them live harmoniously with their family.In 1990, I set out on a lifelong journey to be a Canine Advocate.
Immersing myself in canine behavior and training. Studying via books, seminars, mentor programs, webinars and clinics produced by some of the best canine specialists in our country. Some of my favorites include Ian Dunbar, Karen Overall, Karen Pryor, Dr. Sophia Yin, Patricia McConnell, Jean Donaldson, Brenda Aloff, Pat Miller, Grisha Stewart, Nicole Wilde & Dr. James Dobson. All of which believe in the science of learning by positive motivators. I started my career in 1991 when dog training was done using force, coercion and intimidation.
It was not until 2010 that I became a "crossover" trainer. Ending the "old way" of training and embracing the "new way" by implementing science based, positive training.My journey has led me through many hills and valleys but none are greater than the journey with my current dog, Tayvin. Tayvin, is a male American Pit Bull Terrier, currently 12 years old and is a "Reactive Dog". He has taught me "accept me for who I am and guide me lovingly through my challenges". I thank God for him every day. This journey has led me to dig deep in understanding what dogs are saying and how to help others with "Reactive Dogs". Staying current on dog training trends that reflect my training philosophy gives me much joy. And I'm forever grateful for all the referrals from local rescues & veterinarians who continue to support happy & healthy dogs. I often defer to and appreciate the support of local Board-Certified Animal Behaviorists.
In 2008, I joined the training staff of Oscar's Pet Resort. I have a strong devotion to educating dog owners about their canine companions. My philosophy is based on COOPERATIVE PARTNERSHIP. Utilizing tools and techniques that encourage the dog to happily participate in the tasks asked by their owners.
Some of my accomplishments include: Reactive Dog Work (2011) - Mentor Program with Ann Withun - ACDBC, CPDT-KACanine Behavior & Training (2017 - 2022) - Pat Miller of Peaceable Paws - Level 1 CertifiedGroup Class Trainer Certification (2001) ‚ Animal Behavior Training Associations - A.B.T.A. ‚ Petco A.B.T.A. Instructor (2002) - Petco Trainer Program Canine Good Citizenship/Trick Dog Evaluator (2001) - American Kennel Club Oscar's Pet Resort - Trainer (2008) - Group Classes - Puppy, Basics, Advanced, Carting, Tricks, Reactive Dog, Rocket Recall, Body HandlingFurry Friends Network (2000) - Volunteer/Foster - fostered over 20 pit bulls and adopted them into loving homesKeystone Pets Enhanced Therapy Services (2010) - Evaluator/Trainer/MemberTrain A Dog, Save A Warrior (2014) - Service Dog Trainer
Certifications: CPDT-KA, AKC CGC/Trick Evaluator, ABTA Certified, Pat Miller Level 1 Certified
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.muttpalace.com
Carol Millinghausen
Right Steps Dog Training, LLC is a positive behavioral based program run by owner Carol Millinghausen who is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and honor graduate of the Animal Behavior College with more than 20 years of experience. She was voted "top Ten Trainer" for Philadelphia and surrounding areas in 2020 and 2021 and is a member of the APDT and Pet Professional Guild.
All methods used are reward based and relationship building, giving dogs choice. Carol trains both in your home or obedience classes through therapy dog level in the following locations: Abington, Jenkintown, Warrington and Warminster, PA.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.rightstepsdogtraining.com
Rene Hall
Renee Hall is a professional dog trainer and certified Dog Behavior Consultant through her business Let's Speak Dog Training & Sports Studio in Easton, PA. Renee is an active member of her community, offering pet, sports and behavior modification at the Studio as well as consulting services for local veterinarians, rescue and shelters.
An active mentor, Renee enjoys working with instructors new to the field and introducing a scientific approach to animal training to new students. Teamwork and team development has been paramount to her business plan and offering the best educational environment for learners the theme for continued growth of the business. Renee has been involved with animals most of her life, switched gears from Property/Business Management to open Let's Speak Dog 18 years ago.
An active member in dog sports, Renee currently lives with 5 golden retrievers, 2 cats and is usually out playing with the dogs on her day off. A long time sports enthusiast, Renee is currently an active obedience and rally judge,Professional Credentials/Affiliations: CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT-CDBC, APDT Professional Membership, IAABC certified member, IAABC BOD, NATE BOD, P&P Mentor, AKC CGC evaluator, CDSP judge, WCRL judge
Certifications: IAABC-ADT, CDBC, CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactive/aggression Behavior Modification
Training methods:
We are a positive school using a marker system for training, behavior plans included desensitization/counter conditioning and natural disengagement methods
Service area:
Lehigh Valley, PA
Website: https://www.letsspeakdog.com
Kathy Walker-Graves
I am a lifetime dog guardian and dog lover. I currently share my home with my husband, 6 shelter dogs, 20 chickens, and 3 sheep. I have experience with all creatures great and small. I had a 30 year career in pharmacy, 8 years experience as a veterinary technician (equine and companion animal), and a lifetime of caring for animals.
I've worked with shelter dogs for 15 years and have experience with a variety of breeds and temperaments. I am a Peaceable Paws Affiliate and will complete my PMCT (Pat Miller Certified Trainer) credential in 2022.
Certifications: Canine Behavior and Training Academy @ Peaceable Paws - Pat Miller Trainer Canine Behavior Modification Academy @ Peaceable Paws - Pat Miller Trainer Canine Aggression Academy May 2022 @ Peaceable Paws - Trainer Pat Miller Peaceable Paws Affiliate The Aggression In Dogs Workshop Dec 2021 - Michael Shikashio and Trish McMillan Presenters
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Aggression solutions, reactive behavior solutions, anxiety solutions, fear solutions, house training, crate training, resource guarding management.
Training methods:
Evidence based, positive reinforcement, operant and classical conditioning.
Service area:
Southern Lancaster, PA and surrounding neighborhoods. Also offering remote assistance.
Website: https://www.constantcompanionllc.com
Frozen Belton
As head trainer and owner of Egghead it likely comes as no surprise that I have a passion for dogs and for training. I have been training since childhood, making homemade agility courses for my childhood Chihuahua, Bindi Sue. Since then I have gone on to obtain a Bachelors degree in Biology and Psychology with a focus in Animal Behavior from Ursinus College, raised service dogs for Canine Partners for Life, and earned my CDTK from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy.
Now I am focused on bringing the same passion for learning to pet parents and their canine companions that has driven me.
Certifications: CDTK
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://Eggheadcanineeducation.wordpress.com
Ali Brown
Ali Brown graduated from Ursinus College with a B.S. in Psychology, and earned her M.Ed. in Human Development / Behavioral Science from Lehigh University. Working earlier in her career as a behavior therapist/consultant with mentally challenged children and adults, she made a fulfilling switch to working with dogs in 1998. In 2001, Ali became one of the first 100 trainers to receive her CPDT certificate (Certified Pet Dog Trainer) from Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT).
In May 2008, she became a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). Ali takes great pride in providing non-force training methods for dogs and their people. Ali was a member of the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) for 15 years and served on multiple committees as well as serving on the Board of Directors for a 3 year term.
She lives, trains and works with Bing, a 10-year-old Belgian Sheepdog whose abilities and antics qualify him for his own section of this Website, and Tango, a 'little white fluffy' rescue, who is technically her daughter's dog, but has earned multiple titles with both Ali and Cyan (age 7). Pictured to the right with Ali is Dax, a Belgian Tervuren who joined the family as a puppy in August 2014. Ali is a great believer in forever learning. She attends seminars, IAABC conferences and Clicker Expo conferences regularly. She attended the first two Nose Work seminars on the East Coast. The first was in April 2010: Intro to Nose Work and was presented by Jill-Marie O'Brien and Amy Herot. The second, Intro to Odor, took place in June 2011. Her interest in scent work has evolved into becoming a Scent Detectives judge at all levels. Great Companions runs regular Scent classes, and they are very popular.
Ali Brown and daughter, Cyan, after Cyan wins her C-WAGS Rally level one title.Ali Brown and daughter, Cyan,after Cyan wins her C-WAGSRally level one title.You can read about one of the more unusual training events Ali was involved in -- a week-long Chicken Camp, run by behavior guru, Bob Bailey, and hosted by Terry Ryan in Washington State. Click here for the whole story. Giving is as important as receiving, and Ali does just that. She has been traveling the nation, delivering her one-day and two-day seminars on fearful and reactive dogs (www.ScaredyDog.info); this seminar has taken her as far as Alaska, California and Florida.
Ali leaps at any invitation to share the information she has learned regarding this issue.Another passion for her is Rally. Ali is a C-WAGS judge at all levels. What makes Rally unique is that it is competitive obedience for anyone and everyone, regardless of age, gender, breed, mix, handicap, or level of competitiveness. It's more about the relationship between the owner and the dog and having fun, than it is about precision. Ali's judging assignments are usually close to home, but they have taken her as far west as Arizona and California.
Agility has long been a source of amazement for Ali. Agility is a real craze among dog-lovers, but what Ali finds most fascinating is how precise body movement and posture must be in order to communicate effectively with your canine partner. She's always known that body language is important; agility makes that fact screamingly clear! Click here to see Ali and Bing in action in Agility.Part of Ali's evolution as a trainer has been to learn how to work more effectively with kids and dog. Having a kid of her own has enabled her to be even more effective in helping families to effectively juggle childrens' and canines' needs in the home, fostering a peaceful existence. Ali's own daughter has earned four titles on her dog before the age of 7.
Ali currently competes with her dogs in rally, agility, obedience and scent.Cover Scaredy Dog for About the TrainerAli's second book, FOCUS NOT FEAR, TRAINING INSIGHTS FROM A REACTIVE DOG CLASS (2008) is available by clicking here and through Dogwise.Her first book, SCAREDY DOG! UNDERSTANDING AND REHABILITATING YOUR REACTIVE DOG, was published in June 2004 and revised in 2009. The book can be purchased through Dogwise, Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other book sellers nationally, and is available through this Web site. It includes training methods that are easy to implement, and comes from her experience with individual training sessions and group classes on the subject.
For more information on the book please go to the ReactiveDog.com website. Ali's seminar DVD, which is based on her book Scaredy Dog!, and her Reactive Dog Classes DVD are also available on the ReactiveDog.com Website.
Certifications: CPDT certificate (Certified Pet Dog Trainer) from Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), Ali was a member of the APDT (Association of Pet Dog Trainers) for 15 years and served on multiple committees as well as serving on the Board of Directors for a 3 year term
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Protection/guard dog training
Website: https://www.greatcompanions.info/
Christine Dang
Animal behavior and training have been a passion for Christine ever since childhood, when she eagerly studied every training book in the library and regularly volunteered to walk shelter dogs on the weekends. Since then, she has worked with a wide variety of animals, from a resource guarding Yorkie to a fearful Labrador, and even other species such as guinea pigs and rabbits!
Christine's training philosophy focuses on bridging the gap between humans and pets through relationship building, clear communication, and using rewards to motivate and encourage learning. She also strongly believes that providing enriching activities for dogs to fulfill their natural instincts helps improve confidence and promote mental wellness.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- Board and train
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://thedogstop.com/pa-pittsburgh-east-end/
Susan Greenholt
Susan Greenholt has been training dogs for 30 years and teaching others how to train their dogs for 25. Over the years, in partnership with her 7 GSDs, she has earned over 58 agility and obedience titles. Notably among these, she completed the Agility Dog Champion & Tournament Master titles with her beloved Ika, Master Agility Dog title with Vista, and qualified for USDAA Nationals 3 times. In 2013 Susan and Hedda earned the Highest Scoring Dog in Agility at the German Shepherd Dog Club of America's 100th Anniversary National Specialty.
In addition to competing with her dogs, Susan is involved with therapy work. Ika & Vista both became well-loved therapy dogs with PAWS for People participating in both the PAWS for Reading & Autism programs.Susan began her journey in positive reinforcement training when she attended the first annual conference of The Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) in Valley Forge, PA.
As a professional member of the APDT, Susan is committed to keeping current on the most humane, force free, and effective training techniques available. She and her dogs have attended numerous training camps including Say Yes! Training Camp, Kinetic Dog's Agility Camp, and Camp Gone to the Dogs, as well as seminars on the subject of positive reinforcement given by noted trainers including Leslie Nelson, Jean Donaldson, Sheila Booth, Susan Garrett, and Pat Miller.Susan so enjoyed teaching with Greenwood Dog Training School that she enrolled in the Educational Leadership program at Immaculata University.
Her graduate education connected learning theory to all the work she has been doing over the years. In 2012, she completed her secondary and special education certifications through the state of Pennsylvania- helping her to enhance and enrich the learning experience of the human end of the leash.
Certifications: Professional Dog trainer
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
Website: https://www.greenwooddogs.com/
Kelly Armour
A Lifelong Commitment to Dog TrainingKelly has over 25 years of experience working with a variety of breeds and behavior issues, and specializes in working with Pitbulls and Bully Breeds. Kelly is known for her ability to accurately assess, treat, and resolve dog behavior issues using force-free and positive training methods. Her success in helping dog owners has grown out of many years of dedicated shelter and rescue work.
Kelly gained unique knowledge and hands-on training skills working at the Montgomery SPCA where she worked with a variety of dogs of different sizes, breeds, ages, and personalities. Kelly has extensive experience working with puppies, adolescent teenagers, and dogs that were rescued from abusive and illegal situations. She earned her Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC) from Jean Donaldson's The Academy for Dog Trainers.
Certifications: Canine Applied Behavior Analysis and Certified in Training and Counseling
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.thevirtuousdog.com/
Megan Esherick
I am a certified professional dog trainer with many years of experience in a variety of dog sports. I founded The Clever Hound LLC in 2016 after 17 years as a service dog trainer.I have a bachelor's degree in Small Animal Science and many years of experience training dogs and solving behavior problems using positive reinforcement. I love working with non-traditonal breeds and helping handlers with all levels of experience to bring out the best in their dogs.
I'm certified through Do More with Your Dog as a Trick Dog Instructor and Canine Fitness Coach and am an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. I am approved by the AKC to judge agility and Junior Showmanship. I enjoy competing in a wide variety of dog sports with my Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens, Golden Retriever, and Australian Shepherd.
Certifications: Certified professional dog trainer, Certified through Do More with Your Dog as a Trick Dog Instructor and Canine Fitness Coach and am an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Approved by the AKC to judge agility and Junior Showmanship
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Protection/guard dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://cleverhounddogtraining.com/
Kaye Ames
Kaye Ames has spent virtually a lifetime providing service to dogs & their people. Her grandmother Grace Cramer bred, boarded & groomed dogs from the mid 40s to the late 60s, & Kaye was by her side from early on. In 1962 Kaye joined her grandmother in the kennel business & Kaye added dog training. & has been helping people & their dogs ever since.
A few of Kaye's accomplishments included the following: Veterinary assistant for 5 years‚ Guest on a variety of TV programs‚ Dog show handler for over 32 different breeds of dogs‚ Breeder & owner of top producing & top winning German Shorthaired Pointers & Rottweilers - Member & officer of various dog-related organizations‚ Dog groomer for 50 years‚ Problem solver for top show dogs & pets through the United States
Certifications: Member & officer of various dog-related organizations, Problem solver for top show dogs & pets through the United States
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://kayeames.net/
Joan Forry
I'm Joan. I love dog training. It lights me up to help people connect with their dogs and learn new things. I believe in using training to help people cultivate friendships with their dogs, to craft meaningful experiences in learning and enrichment, and to help people seek ways to flourish together over a dog's lifetime. I believe that training enables humans and dogs to discover the very best in one another.
Clients and their dogs come to me for my knowledge, creativity, and humor. I hope to see you and your dog online soon!
Certifications: CPDT-KA, CTC, CCFP-Trainer
Services include:
- In home training
- Protection/guard dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
I work with dogs who have trouble with handling and husbandry care. I also work with teams who are looking for more fun and connection.
Training methods:
I use positive reinforcement and classical conditioning to teach new skills and behaviors. Students who sign up for group classes must be committed to positive reinforcement training.
Service area:
Remote only
Website: https://www.thedogabidesllc.com/
Sniffspot Pennsylvania Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Pennsylvania dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania cost?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania was $30,779 per year and $14.80 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.
See The Best Dog Trainers By City In Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA
Pittsburgh, PA