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The Best Agility Trainers in Portland, OR of 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Agility training in Portland, OR. Based on feedback and votes from our Agility training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the Portland area.

  • Patty Bensene Photo

    Patty Bensene

    CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Puppy training

    Multnomah, Marion, Washington, Clackamas County, OR. Clark County , WA

    I've been training for over 25 years, companion obedience, puppy and behavior classes. The last 15 years has been mainly focused on all aspects of agility including serious competition and relationship building.


  • Robynn Harris Photo

    Robynn Harris

    Certified Canine Fitness Trainer, Certified End-Of-Life Companion Animal Doula, Licensed Pet Partners Instructor, AKC CGC Evaluator, AKC Fit Dog Instructor, Animal Chaplain

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

    Greater Gresham Area, Portland Metro

    Have you ever heard a dog trainer say something like, I hate people. If I could only work with the dog I would be so much happier.? I have. And it really hurt my feelings. After all, I was, and am, a person who often needs help training my dogs.I love dogs. And cats. And really all animals. I especially love people. I have always struggled with the moniker, dog trainer, because while I do train...


  • Lisa Plymale Photo

    Lisa Plymale

    Agility training

    Before starting Happy-Go-Lucky in 1999, Lisa trained atanother positive-style training facility and worked with elementary school students as a sign language interpreter. She's been teaching a variety of classes and doing private lessons for more than 20 years now. Lisa continues her education in the field by regularly attending classes, herding and agility lessons, and seminars – not to mentio...


  • Samantha Hoaglin Photo

    Samantha Hoaglin

    In home training, Puppy training, Agility training

    When Samantha adopted her first dog, an adolescent terrier mix named Buffy (now 2.5 years old), she was met with a lot of unexpected behavioral challenges. She quickly took up positive reinforcement training to help Buffy learn that the world isn't so scary! After reading lots of training books and practicing with her own dog, she decided to make a huge career change from video production to do...


  • Fern Pagani Photo

    Fern Pagani

    In home training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Fern has been working with dogs professionally for 3 years. They have worked at three different dog daycares in Portland, where they've learned about dog behavior and appropriate play styles (Fern worked under Meaghan at Club K-9 in 2019). Through taking classes with their own dogs (including classes at Urban Pawsibilities), they've grown to love dog training. At home, they have 3 dogs: an 11 y...


Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Agility training in Portland, OR is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Agility training, we received 21 total votes, resulting in 5 dog trainers who focus on Agility training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Agility training listed first.

Dog trainers for Agility training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Patty Bensene, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Agility training in Portland, OR. Patty Bensene’s favorite part of their job is: Watching a dog blossom into the great dog they were meant to be and the joy of the owner/handler being able to take credit for the success..

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Patty Bensene, as well as the other dog trainers on this Agility training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog. Patty Bensene encourages owners with this dog training tip: Do not force your dog to do anything. Teach them to learn and they will be successful at any task you train them for..

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Frequently Asked Questions About Agility Training in Portland, Oregon

How were the top Agility dog training dog trainers in Portland selected?

We evaluated over 21 votes from local dog owners to identify the best Agility dog training trainers in Portland. This process resulted in highlighting 3 exceptional trainers known for their expertise in Agility dog training.

What qualifications do the leading Agility dog trainers in Portland hold?

Top Agility dog training trainers in Portland are recognized for their expertise through certifications such as CPDT-KA, AKC CGC Evaluator, AKC Fit Dog Instructor, Certified End-Of-Life Companion Animal Doula, Certified Canine Fitness Trainer. These credentials ensure they are equipped to address specific training needs in the region.

Who is the leading Portland dog trainer in Agility dog training and why?

Patty Bensene is celebrated as the top Agility dog training trainer in Portland due to their impressive 12 votes and their proficiency in Reactive dog training and Puppy dog training, distinguishing them as a top choice in the area.

What behavioral issues do Agility dog trainers focus on in Portland?

In Portland, top Agility dog training trainers like Patty Bensene concentrate on issues such as R, P, A. Other trainers might focus on areas like D, R, P.

What are the common training techniques used by Agility dog training trainers in Portland?

Training methods vary among top Agility dog training trainers in Portland. For instance, Patty Bensene uses a method centered on: I like to lure dogs into behavior or let them offer desired behaviors for rewards. I want the dogs to think for themselves offering appropriate behaviors/tasks to solicit rewards whether its a treat, toy, touching or verbal., while others like Robynn Harris adopt: Fun and play is HUGE in my training techniques. I follow LIMA standards and believe cues are all about communication. Dogs love to please us but often times the challenge for them is not knowing what we want. When I can help a human and dog communicate many behavioral challenges disappear. I offer weekly or monthly fitness training plans for those who are interested in canine conditioning. I can work with dog's post surgery (once they are cleared to exercise) to help build muscle mass and endurance that is often lost during the recovery process. Fitness lessons during the week can be part of a risk reduction plan for 'weekend warriors.' I teach group classes and private lessons to accommodate a variety of schedules. I have often found humans just need a couple of coaching sessions to tweak a thing or two to complete the education they already have allowing them to have a better relationship with their dog(s). I offer free consultations to folks who are not sure of their next steps. Sometimes this is about what to do next in training, sometimes this is inquiring about therapy dog work, and sometimes this is helping someone navigate more specialized training. I really enjoy meeting human/dog teams and helping them see the possibilities in what activities they might enjoy doing together. I never charge for guidance I provide via email. Sometimes people just need a link to an article or YouTube video to put the pieces they already have in the right places.. Each approach is customized to suit local dogs.

How should I select the best Agility dog trainer in Portland?

To find the ideal Agility dog training trainer in Portland, consider their certifications, such as CPDT-KA, AKC CGC Evaluator, AKC Fit Dog Instructor, Certified End-Of-Life Companion Animal Doula, Certified Canine Fitness Trainer, and their expertise in services like Puppy dog trainingand Reactive dog training. Reviewing their past results with dogs in Portland can also guide your decision.

What’s the top advice for training dogs in Portland?

When it comes to Agility dog training training, Patty Bensene advises: Do not force your dog to do anything. Teach them to learn and they will be successful at any task you train them for. which is crucial for enhancing your dog’s behavior in Portland.

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Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool
David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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