Welcome to the Texas Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2022. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Texas 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 Texas Dog Trainers in 2022
Karen Deeds
Karen Deeds, is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is the co-owner of Canine Connection in Ft. Worth, TX with her husband, Bob Deeds, a retired Federal K9 Handler on Texas Task Force I. Karen started her business in 1994 after realizing the need for educating the public about dog training and behavior while volunteering for a local humane society. She worked in the Assistance Dog Field for 15 years and currently provides her expertise on behavior problems including fear, anxiety and aggression.
She has consulted and worked with thousands of pet dog owners, various shelters and many rescue organizations, as well as has testified in dozens of court cases regarding dog bites. She currently teaches at two facilities in the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex focusing on Reactive Integration and Competitive Obedience and Rally. She also specializes in Puppy Problem prevention in the home and working with Reactivity and aggression cases.
Karen has presented seminars to the general public, rescue groups, animal control officers, at various dog training clubs, dog training facilities, and various shelters throughout Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee. She has presented at the Dallas SPCA, Texas A&M Veterinary College Behavior Club, Texas Animal Control Association Conference (2016 & 2017) as well as the annual Texas Unites for Animals (2017 & 2018) . She is often called upon to help rescue groups make difficult decisions about behaviorally challenged dogs in their care.
Certifications: Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (IAABC)
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.deedscanineconnection.com
Tiffany Baker
Hi all! My name is Tiffany and I own and operate Boss Babe Dog Training. I'm a certified canine behavior consultant who specializes in aggression, reactivity, and other fear, frustration and anxiety based behaviors, with an additional emphasis on dogs with disabilities, including blind and deaf dogs. My goal: to empower each human dog partnership I have the opportunity to work with through cooperative learning!
Certifications:
CBCC-KA, FDM, CCUI, FPPE
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.bossbabedogtraining.com
Beth Berkobien
My name is Beth Berkobien and I have been training dogs and doing behavioral work for 20 yrs. I grew up on a quarter horse farm in Wisconsin, showing quarter horses in various events including: Barrel racing, western pleasure and hunter under saddle. Growing up, my dad trained field trial labs using ecollars and punishment.
I remember watching wiggly, happy high drive dogs come out to work and then return to their kennels, shut down and terrified, I knew in my soul that there had to be a better way. I originally wanted to be a vet, but blood makes me a bit squeamish. So, much to my parents dismay, I changed tracks and decided to get a masters degree in Animal Behavior, but because my parents felt that was essentially under-water basket weaving, I also got an MBA. When I graduated UW- Madison, I spent the first few years building my skills in basic manners and obedience, titling my Rottweiler in obedience getting his Companion Dog Excellent.
I began behavior work in 2006, specializing in the reactive dog. Since then I have continued my education and honing my approach, using only science-based methods that truly get results. I specialize in the rescue dog, because they often come to new families holding trauma and PTSD that is often misunderstood.
Certifications: MS - animal behavior, Cert. SAPT
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://rehabyourrescue.com
Liz Vanderhoef
Liz comes to us from Chicagoland, Il with her German Shepherd, Ruger RATN ORT ETD NI NV NE. Liz has added to the family with the newest member of the team, Rumor, a German Shepherd puppy. She will raise her to be a demo dog in the future and to participate in a handful of dog sports. She has been training in dog sports (Barn Hunt & Nose Work) for over two years now and has a passion for behavior modification.
Liz will be taking over the polished pooch program and teaching group classes that will include: manners, nose work, and puppy classes while she apprentices under Beth for behavior cases. Liz has completed the Kim Brophey L.E.G.S Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation Professional course and is a certified Family Dog Mediator. When she isn't working with dogs, she is enjoying and exploring nature, checking out new coffee shops & watching new shows!
Liz is actively teaching: Puppy programFamily Dog Mediation ProgramsPolished PoochNose WorkDay TrainsStay and trainsReactive dog walks
Certifications: FDM
Services include:
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.rehabyourrescue.com
Lisa Corcoran
Lisa Corcoran (VSA-CDT) is the owner of The Confident Hound in Waco, Texas, where she has provided force-free dog training services since 2020. Lisa has a background in Psychology (B.S., Virginia Tech; M.A., Catholic University of America) and continued her education in 2019 by graduating with distinction from the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior.
Since 2017, Lisa has also volunteered at shelters/rescues to help rehabilitate dogs, educate staff, and provide support to new adopters. Lisa is passionate about teaching her human clients how to build confidence in their dogs so they can both worry less and enjoy life more. Her detail-oriented nature helps her identify the cause of a dog's behavior and her creativity leads to a solution that works for both human and dog.
Lisa loves watching her clients learn to see the world through their dog's perspective, grow in their compassion for their dog, celebrate their progress together, and strengthen that bond.
Certifications: Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer (VSA-CDT)
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://theconfidenthound.com
Heather Clever
Heather was first introduced to positive reinforcement methods while apprenticing under an experienced trainer in Phoenix. The idea that we can show animals how to coexist with us, in ways that don't involve physical punishment or intimidation, immediately resonated with her.
Over 9 years later, she is still using this methodology to help dogs and their families. Heather regularly attends continuing education events and loves that there are always new things to learn about effective behavior modification.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Behavioral issue focus:
Heather routinely works with potty issues, demand barking, fearful behaviors, reactive dogs, handling and grooming, vet visit difficulty, car reluctance, shy dogs, distractibility and excitability, and more.
Training methods:
Heather uses positive reinforcement to build desirable behaviors and management to prevent the practice of unwanted behaviors. She does not utilize physical punishment in her training. Training starts with discussing the family's goals and agreeing on a training plan, then systematically building the relevant skills in easy to follow steps.
Service area:
10 mile radius from Downtown Austin; remote
Website: https://www.trainmydogsaustin.com
Victoria Beckham
‚ Positively Pups is a professional dog training company based in Dallas, TX.We do in-home based training with a variety of package options. For a new puppy or adult dog, we have a training package that will specifically suit you both to get the best results.We specialize in positive reinforcement and marker training techniques. These are scientifically proven to be the most beneficial way to train. They are force-free training methods, that do not involve fear or pain on the animal for them to learn.
What we offer... Board & Train PackagesPrivate Sessions (in your home!) Behavior Modification Owner Away TrainingIn-Home BoardingGroup Training Classes $60 ‚ Initial Evaluation session -An in depth meeting in your home, a great way to get started and see what package will work best for you - Thank you! Looking forward to speaking with you soon!
Certifications: APDT
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://www.positivelypups.com
Anne O'Neil
Anne started studying animal behavior and training in 1999 when she adopted her first Jack Russell Terrier named Biscuit. In 2002, Anne received a certification as a Canine Obedience Instructor through the Animal Behavior and Training Associates (ABTA) and Animal Behavior College (ABC). Anne continues to study animal behavior through the most up-to-date continuing education programs and is a professional member of the Animal Behavior Associates and a member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.
She is also qualified to perform CPR & First Aide on Animals, an approved American Kennel Club CGC Evaluator and supports several local rescues and shelters with behavioral evaluations, consultations and behavior assistance. She also enjoys studying behavior training for other animals such as potbellied pigs, cats and horses and continues to seek new opportunities to work with all kinds of animals. Her greatest joy is experiencing each Animal-Human bond and finding the best way for that family to communicate effectively, consistently and enjoy living with their pet.
Certifications: Certified Canine Obedience Instructor through the Animal Behavior and Training Associates (ABTA) and Animal Behavior College (ABC), Qualified to perform CPR & First Aide on Animals, an approved American Kennel Club CGC Evaluator
Services include:
- In home training
Behavioral issue focus:
Behavior issues such as jumping up on guests, pulling on leash, barking, puppy biting, crate training, potty training, fears and anxieties.
Training methods:
All of the instructors at Specialty Pet Training have gone through many years of hands-on continuing education and course instruction. We study under the leading PhD and Certified Animal Behavior Professionals in the industry and pride ourselves on teaching only through Positive Motivation & Reinforcement, Force & Fear Free Techniques utilizing Science Based Methods.
Service area:
We Service the DFW Metroplex, Texas Addison, South Argyle, Bedford, Carrollton, Castle Hills, Colleyville, Coppell, Corinth, South Denton, Double Oak, West Plano, Euless, Flower Mound, South Frisco, Grapevine, Highland Village, North Irving, Lantana, Lake Dallas and Lewisville. Group classes and workshops are currently held in Highland Village. In the counties of: Collin, Dallas, Denton and Tarrant. Zoom Training Sessions are offered Nationwide!
Website: https://www.specialtypettraining.com/
Sandy Wittliff
Dogs have always been a part of my life. I have had Irish Terriers, Tea Cup Poodles, Labradors, Beagles, Ridgebacks, Irish Setters, Great Pryenees, Shelties, and German Shepard dogs. I adhere to the belief that the best training is done with NO shock, NO Pain, and NO fear for the dog.
I started K9mutt Training which is Behavior/Obedience positive reinforcement training. I not only train companion dogs, therapy dogs but also service dogs. I work with a number of rescues to make sure the dogs get started on a good footing by offering them free training when dogs get adopted. I also test and advise a number of rescues on dogs to be pulled and what type of family the dog needs to go to.I am the President of Angel Paws (www.angelpaws.info), a premier animal assisted therapy organization in Waco and an affiliate of Pet Partners (www.PetPartners.org).
I am a certified instructor and evaluator for Pet Partners. Badge #50099 IV & TE. I am a Certified Humane Education Specialist through the Humane Society of America. I am a member of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (www.IAADP.org). I train and support people in training their own service dogs. I am a GAP (Gifted Animal Placement) Level 1 Diagnostician which is an organization that searches shelters looking for dogs to become service, drug, customs, search and rescue dogs ( www.gapdogs.org). I am a member of the Pet Professional Guild (www.petprofessionalguild.com)
Certifications: Certified instructor and evaluator for Pet Partners. Badge #50099 IV & TE. I am a Certified Humane Education Specialist through the Humane Society of America. I am a member of the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (www.IAADP.org)
Services include:
- In home training
- Service dog training
Website: https://www.k9mutt.com/
Rona Distenfeld
I'm a relationship based trainer. I help you create a relationship with your dog where they want to follow your lead and look to you for guidance. We layer the skills you want over this foundation so you have true obedience based in trust.
Certifications: Certified Integrative Behaviorist,AKC Evaluator
Services include:
- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.GoodDogTraining.biz
Kathy Ingram
Kathy Ingram is a seasoned professional with 40 years of training experience. She has trained dogs of all breeds, ages and temperaments. Kathy has a unique vision for training. She evaluates both the dog and the owner to design a program that benefits both. Her programs are based on positive reinforcement, fun and the communication necessary to develop a respectful and happy working relationship.
In addition to obedience and agility training, Kathy also assists in therapy dog training and behavioral consultation. She currently works with local rescue groups with temperament evaluation. No matter what your need might be, Kathy can help you and your dog. Her career in dog training started with a dog club in Southern Maryland. She taught all ranges of obedience classes from basic through advanced.
During this time Kathy also worked to get a UTD title on her own dog. In addition, she worked with many of her students to help them attain a variety of different titles in obedience work. Kathy has competed in conformation, agility, rally, and obedience at the top levels. Her last two dogs were ranked #1 in the country in agility. Kathy has attended invitational and agility nationals each year. Not only is Kathy extremely successful in her competition endeavors, she currently has a student junior that has been selected to represent the United States overseas.
Currently, Kathy is working with her own two Dobermans in both obedience and agility. One of her Dobermans was Top 20 in the breed, has earned top titles in Rally, currently holds a MACH 6 in agility and finished 1st in the Doberman section of Invitationals. (Only the top 5 dogs per breed are invited) Her other Doberman is a conformation champion and has just achieved her 10th first MACH in agility and is working towards other obedience and agility titles. Kathy's students range in age from 7 to 82. In addition, she works well with all breeds of dogs and all dispositions of dogs.
The experience of her students ranges from showing professionals to the stay-at-home mom. Her clients may have her work with just one dog, or many of her students have multiple dogs that she can work with. So no matter what your situation is, Kathy can develop the right program for you. Kathy's students compete in all competitions from scent work, to agility and obedience.
Certifications: Certified Professional Dog trainer
Services include:
- Board and train
- Off leash training
Website: https://www.kreuzungdogcoach.com/
Jeannette Kincaid
Jeannette is personally and professionally committed to improving the lives of dogs and their relationships with their owners through positive and gentle training methods.
Jeannette earned her training certification from Animal Behavior College in 2008 and is devoted to continued education through reading, attending conferences, listening to Podcasts and following the careers of her favorite animal behaviorists and dog trainers.
She loves helping growing families learn how to live safely and harmoniously with new children and/or dogs. Sharing her life with a shy dog, she has a special interest in helping other shy dogs blossom and overcome their fears. Jeannette is currently working her way through Animal Behavior College Grooming Instruction Program.
Certifications: Animal Behavior College Graduate (2006), Fear-free certified Trainer & Groomer, Pet First Aid
Services include:
- Board and train
- In home training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
Website: https://onioncreekkennels.com/
Anisha Murarka
Hi there! I'm Anisha, the owner of Tooth & Tail.My love for dog training started with my own pups, as they developed issues I had no clue how to manage. I sought out help from a trainer, but my dogs just didn't respond well to force, fear, and intimidation. I knew there had to be another way, so I did my own research.
Slowly, I started learning more and more about positive dog training, and I decided I loved it so much that I wanted to share my knowledge with others! I became a certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College in 2017. My initial goal was to help shelter dogs become more adoptable. However, as I spent more time in the shelter, I saw pups being returned for behavioral issues that could definitely be worked through.
I realized I also wanted to help dogs keep their homes by working with them alongside their human family members! That lead me to the Behavior Team at a local no-kill animal shelter. There I got to guide adopters and fosters through management and training with their dog's behaviors and needs. When I was not working with people, I worked directly with the pups and helped them learn to be their best selves for their forever homes. But let's be honest, rescue pups aren't the only ones who can benefit from some training!I think it' important to be clear about this - the training I provide is human-based.
Sure, I can teach your pup to be on his or her best behavior, but it takes buy-in from the human side to sustain this. Dog training is just like any other relationship! Effective communication with your pooch is key to keeping everyone happy and creating a strong bond. If you've come as far as to find me, I think we can both agree that you clearly love your pup and are willing to put in the effort to make this relationship work! Phew, you stuck with me through the 'relationship talk!'
You may be wondering where the name 'Tooth & Tail' comes from. Before becoming a full-time small business owner, I had a whole career as a dentist! That's where the 'tooth' comes from, and I think the 'tail' is pretty self-explanatory! But it's also a play on the phrase 'Tooth & Nail' Because that is how hard I will work to help you help your pup! The number one goal is training clients to communicate in a way their furry family member will understand. I would be honored to have the opportunity to learn more about you and your family. Please contact me, and let's get to work together!
Certifications: Certified dog trainer through Animal Behavior College
Services include:
- Off leash training
Website: https://toothandtaildogservices.com/
Sniffspot Texas Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions
How are Texas dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Texas 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 Texas 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 Texas?
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 Texas 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 Texas cost?
Texas 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 Texas dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Texas 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 Texas?
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 Texas was $30,675 per year and $14.75 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.