Welcome to the Philadelphia, PA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Philadelphia 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 Pennsylvania 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 Philadelphia, PA Dog Trainers in 2022
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
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
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/
Nancy T
I am a certified trainer and canine behavioral specialist for the past 14 years with a true passion for working with dogs I started my business Peace In The Pack to help dogs with behavioral issues to learn, understand and to become confident and peaceful I love to work from the canine's point of view to help them learn from their perspective It always works!I call my dogs my teachers and professors because I still learn from every case.
I teach my Peace In The Pack canine behavioral courses at Camden County College and at Rowan at Gloucester RCGC and at Audubon Community Ed I have been the resident canine expert and pet reporter on KYW Newsradio for nine years and have been an expert witness to speak on canine behavior on various cases. With my extensive background as a professional broadcaster and public speaker, (NBC4 , KYW and various Phila radio stations) I also lecture to help people to better understand canine behavior to help create balance and stability in dogs' lives.
Its been fulfilling to have worked with bite cases that have rehabilitated and ultimately became therapy dogs! My individual session work is where I can observe one to one and help families communicate better with their best friends
Certifications: ABCDT, CPDT PVMA award recipient
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
All issues including aggressive tendencies
Training methods:
Free phone consult/Program Plan and Lifetime Walks included with Full Program
Service area:
NJ/PA and Remote
Website: https://www.Peaceinthepack.com
Elizabeth Boucher
In your home Dog Obedience Training. I'll teach you how to teach your dog.
Certifications: Animal Behavior College Dog Trainer
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://pawsfirstllc.com/
Sniffspot Philadelphia Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Philadelphia dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
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 Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia cost?
Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia?
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.
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