Welcome to the Rhode Island Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island Dog Trainers in 2022
Kelsey Shank
Kelsey is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she studied psychology including Applied Behavior Analysis. She has worked with individuals with special needs for many years until she expanded her interest in behavior to canines and transferred these techniques to the rescue dogs she works with.
Kelsey has been a volunteer with Rhode Home Rescue, where she held the position of Training Coordinator.Her two high energy, large breed rescue dogs each have behavioral issues of their own, so she is no stranger to challenging behavior problems. Kelsey has a unique first-hand understanding of the needs of fearful, anxious and reactive dogs as these are some of the needs of her own dogs.
Kelsey is an internationally Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). The CCPDT is the only independent, standardized certification for dog training professionals that confirms and awards credentials based upon a rigorous examination and thorough verification of the skills and knowledge a professional has attained through education and experience. The CCPDT is unlike certificate programs, which can be offered by any individual or organization and award certificates upon graduation.
Kelsey is one of the first 50 internationally Certified Family Dog Mediators (FDM) through industry expert and Applied Animal Ethologist Kim Brophey. Family dog mediation is dedicated to bridging the gap between people and dogs, between the sciences, between the history of humans and dogs and our modern dog world.Kelsey is also certified by the American Kennel Club as a Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Instructor and Evaluator, STAR Puppy Instructor and Evaluator and AKC Trick Dog Evaluator. She is a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certified though the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
She has completed instruction in Suzanne Clothier's Treat-Retreat certificate course though the Aggression in Dogs program by Michael Shikashio (CDBC). Kelsey has earned both the AKC Canine Good Citizen title with her dogs as well as AKC Novice Trick Dog title (TKN) and Novice Trick Dog (NTD) title from Do More With Your Dog. Kelsey is also certified in Pet CPR & First Aid through the Pet Emergency Education program. Kelsey is currently enrolled in Michael Shikashio's Aggressive Dogs Master course, The Reactivity Specialist program through Dog Training College, and will be testing for her CBCC-KA in the spring. She is continuing her education in behavioral modification using positive reinforcement techniques in hopes to help more dogs live comfortably with their humans in their forever homes.
Her mission is to reduce preventable owner-surrenders and the overall number of dogs in custody of rescues and shelters in our community as a trainer and behavior specialist with Modern Dog Training RI.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, FDM
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity, fear, "stranger danger", aggression
Training methods:
I use force free methods backed by the latest science based evidence. We begin with a behavior assessment followed up with a written assessment report including a training plan. Packages are available in 2 or 4 1-hour working sessions with additional working lessons available to add on after package completion.
Group classes are also available in open enrollment and consecutive sessions. All package options and pricing can be found at moderndogri.com
Service area:
We offer in-home services in the following Rhode Island cities with some restrictions- East Greenwich, West Greenwich, Coventry, Exeter, North Kingstown, Hope, Scituate, Warwick, West Warwick, Providence, Johnston
Website: https://www.moderndogri.com/
Jo Ferraris
I own Mischief Managed Mayhem to Manners located in Exeter, RI. We provide a variety of flexible group classes, private lessons, day training, and day camp for dogs!
Certifications: BS Animal Science, CNWI, FFCP (Trainer)
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.mischiefmanagedri.com
Ashly Rose
The Peaceful Pack
Certifications: CPR
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Anxiety, Reactivity and Socialization
Training methods:
Consultations & training plans
Service area:
Rhode Island and surrounding states
Website: https://thepeacefulpack.org/
Sheila Rose
The Peaceful Pack
Certifications: CPR
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Service dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://thepeacefulpack.org/
Sniffspot Rhode Island Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Rhode Island dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island cost?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island was $31,128 per year and $14.97 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.