Malia Grace Stevens-Sandler
is a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is Fear Free Certified and does not use pain or intimidation in her work with dogs and their humans. As a Family Dog Mediator (FDMTM) , Malia approaches each case through the lens of applied ethology which considers the LEGS-learning, environment, genetics and self- of each individual. The motivating factors that cause a certain behavior in one dog may be completely different in another and therefore the approach to management and training is as well.
Malia has had a long relationship with Animal Care Centers of NYC. She logged many hours handling dogs while volunteering in the shelter before the launch of the Community Pets Program in 2016 for which Malia was the first consulting trainer. This amazing program offers services to help pets stay in their homes and out of the crowded shelter system. Malia is a proud 4x adopter of dogs through ACC which is the city’s only open intake system, meaning no animals are turned away.
Malia hold’s certifications that require continued education so she regularly attends conferences and seminars to study with experts in the field of behavior and the science of learning. Most recently, she completed the Master’s in Aggression Course with Michael Shikashio (2019) and LEGS course with Kim Brophy (2022). Malia enjoy’s working with complex behavior cases, raising puppies and everything in between but has a soft spot for fearful and anxious dogs who struggle in our urban environment. She works with a network of amazing veterinarians to support families who need a collaborative approach.
Training Philosophy
Malia Stevens-Sandler is a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is Fear Free Certified and does not use pain or intimidation in her work with dogs and their humans. As a Family Dog Mediator (FDMTM) , Malia approaches each case through the lens of applied ethology which considers the LEGS-learning, environment, genetics and self- of each individual. The motivating factors that cause a certain behavior in one dog may be completely different in another and therefore the approach to management and training is as well.
Services
Malia Stevens-Sandler offers a variety of services, including:
- Initial Consultation: $325
- Puppy Consultation for puppies 16 weeks or younger: $275
- Private Coaching:
- Required Initial Consultation (90 mins) $325
- Individual appointments (60 mins.) $250
- Package of 3 sessions (60 mins.) $700
- Puppies:
- Required Initial Consultation (up to 90 mins.) $275
- Individual appointments (60 mins.) $225
- Package of 3 sessions (60 mins.) $600
- Package of 6 Sessions (60 mins.) $1170
- Virtual Training:
- One Hour: $200
- 30 min: $100
- New Rescues:
- Rescue Consultation: $250 for 90 min
Certifications
Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is Fear Free Certified and does not use pain or intimidation in her work with dogs and their humans. As a Family Dog Mediator (FDMTM)
Specializations
Malia Stevens-Sandler specializes in working with complex behavior cases, raising puppies and everything in between but has a soft spot for fearful and anxious dogs who struggle in our urban environment.
Training Methods
Malia Stevens-Sandler uses positive reinforcement, science-based methods, and refrains from using fear, intimidation, and punishment techniques to get results. She is committed to using least invasive, minimally intrusive (LIMA) methods when working with animals.
Customer Reviews
“Anytime I hear anyone say they are having issues with their dog I immediately share Malia’s information.
She has a world of knowledge, you will learn so much from her! She is also the most incredible person, she really cares about dogs, i can’t recommend her enough.”
“I’ve worked with Malia for a few years as a dog trainer, but she’s so much more than that.
Malia is an advocate and friend to every client she works with. She genuinely cares about me and my dogs. Not only regarding their behavior, but how it effects me.”
“Malia deserves the moniker of ‘Genius.’
She is thorough, professional, nurturing, and joyful, as well as inspired and inspiring in her approach to each dog and person as an individual.”
“Best trainer! Patient, dedicated, and reachable.
Trainers I worked with in the past were never available when i needed it or had a question. Not Justis, she is prompt and extremely courteous. She transformed my terrier rescue, Maxwell, from a leash reactive terror (barking and lunging at dogs big and small) to an attentive student, who gets complimented on his manners and can pass dogs and greet a dog when appropriate. Justis creates a plan for you and your dog. Training is work, so be prepared to do your homework. Maxwell wouldn’t be where he is today without Raise the Woof!”
“Justis worked above and beyond for both me and my dog.
She is in it to help the dog, and cares so deeply to help the situation. Training is work, nobody can magically fix your dog, Justis will help you learn what to do in the best possible way.”
