Certified dog trainers in
Denver, CO
Hand-Picked Trainers

Learn from the best, certified trainers in

Denver, CO

Discover skilled and certified trainers with a heart for dogs and a proven track record, ready to help enhance the bond between you and your pet.

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Local & Skilled

Learn & grow with local Trainers

All of our Trainers are certified to have proficiency in all basic, intermediate or advanced skills, are educated in animal behavior and canine communication, and are suited for most pet training tasks.

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Positive Training

Positive Vibes, Positive Training

Meet trainers who believe in kind, positive reinforcement methods, making training a joy for both you and your dog.

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Top trainers

John James

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Amanda Peet

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Julia Styles

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Lauren Zimniski

USA

Lauren Zimniski

Lauren is a professional dog trainer with a Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC) from The Academy for Dog Trainers. She never knew what she wanted to be when she grew up, but if you asked her when she was 6 she would have said, “a dog!” Although that dream didn’t come true, she now works with dogs on a daily basis and that’s just as amazing.


Training Philosophy

Lauren's methods are Force-free, humane and backed by modern scientific research. She uses positive reinforcement (R+) or reward-based training, which means she rewards behaviors we want more of. For behaviors we want less of, she will either cancel the reward and try again, or she will purposely train and reward a mutually exclusive behavior in its place. You won’t see any electronic collars, prongs, choke chains, dominance/alpha theory (it’s been debunked), or any other “tool” that hurts, scares or punishes dogs. Afterall, dogs are only with us for so long, so why not train using modern, scientifically-proven, force-free methods?


Services

Lauren offers a variety of services, including:


  • Puppy Socialization Program: This program is designed for puppies 8 to 16 weeks old and will expose them to the city of Denver, people, sounds, and more in a safe way. It includes four sessions covering socialization, dog body language, troubleshooting behavior, and beginning basics.
  • Wildflower Puppy Program: This program is for puppies 1 year or younger and includes 12 training sessions condensed into a three-week period. Lauren will come to your home while you’re at work and train your puppy one-on-one. The program also includes two follow-up sessions with you and your puppy to refine skills, apply skills in real-life settings, and troubleshoot any issues that have popped up.
  • Puppy Prep Zoom: This is a virtual session designed to prepare you, your home, and your family for life with a new puppy. It includes one 60-minute virtual session during which you will cover the 3 Keys to Puppy Prep: potty training, puppy-proofing, and socialization. You’ll also receive a summary of your discussion including any relevant handouts or resources.
  • Dog Training: This program includes one consultation, followed by a customized training package based on your goals and needs. Lauren will provide you with homework and summaries of training sessions, as well as a Google Drive with notes, handouts, and videos. She will also provide you with management strategies to relieve stress from behavior issues and email support during and 30 days after training.
  • Goal Setting Session: This session is designed to help you set your training goals, make a list of your dog’s biggest motivators, make a ladder of your dog’s distractions from easiest to hardest, decide on a number of training sessions, and more.


Certifications

Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC) from The Academy for Dog Trainers


Specializations

Puppy training, socialization, obedience training, behavior modification, leash reactivity, house training, destruction, good manners


Training Methods

Positive reinforcement (R+), reward-based training, force-free, humane, modern, scientifically-proven


Customer Reviews

Laura & Ella: Lauren is an incredible trainer. She has been formally trained by experts in her field and it shows in her knowledge and approach. She was very easy to work with, all sessions started in my home where my dog was comfortable and less distracted. Her method for training was easy to practice in between sessions with her detailed directions.


Elie & Jack: Lauren was instrumental in training my new puppy. Her program designed specifically for puppies was great for both us and the carryover has been exciting to see. She tailored the training to traits important for us and was an amazing resource for all of my questions as a new dog mom. Jack and I can’t thank Lauren enough for her help!


Missy & Scout: My fiance and I got our first puppy and had no idea where to start. Lauren was able to provide us with resources and guidance for us to navigate the first few months. She was easily accessible so I can ask all of my questions and always gave thoughtful and impactful responses. She took away all my fears made the adjustment so much easier!!


Paige & Ramsey: Lauren helped us integrate our puppy into our multi-dog household. Our older dog has quirks and we wanted to make it a positive transition. She was very patient and took slow, steady steps. She was knowledgeable about behavior and helped us feel at ease with training. We plan to use her again when we need dog training in the future!


Sarah & Ella: Lauren was amazing training our rescue Berner, Ella. Ella was so timid and scared it was hard to do any training. Lauren came in with compassion and patience. She provided helpful tips, videos, and homework. It was truly incredible to see Ella's transformation. I would highly recommend Wildflower Dog Training!!


Missy & Joe H.: Lauren helped us integrate our puppy into our multi-dog household. She was knowledgeable about behaviors to look for and helped us feel completely at ease with training them together. We plan to use her again when we have dog training needs in the future!


Elie N.: Lauren was instrumental in training my new puppy. Her program designed specifically for puppies was great and the carryover has been exciting to see. She tailored the training to us and was an amazing resource for all of my questions as a new dog mom. Jack and I can’t thank Lauren enough for her help!


Paige N.: My fiance and I got our first puppy and had no idea where to start. Lauren provided us with great resources and guidance for us to navigate the first few months of having a puppy. She was easily accessible so I can ask all of my questions and always gave thoughtful and impactful responses. She completely took away all my fears about getting a new puppy and made the adjustment so much easier!! Would recommend Lauren to anyone!!


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Smarty Paws Canine College LLC

US

Smarty Paws Canine College LLC

Cara, the owner of Smarty Paws Canine College LLC, has been involved in the animal rescue and veterinary clinic profession for nearly 25 years, working in rescue organizations and large and small vet clinics as a veterinary nurse. She holds a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed), KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy-Canine Training Partner). She has always been drawn to animals, starting at 5 years old when she would convince people to let her sit on horses and wander her neighborhood to find dogs. In 2016, she launched her dog care and training business to share her knowledge and expertise with dogs and their guardians.

Training Philosophy

Cara doesn't view herself as a "trainer", but sees her job as a facilitator and coach to both pet and pet parent: To clarify expectations, strengthen their bonds of trust and understanding to create harmony in and outside the home.

Services

Smarty Paws Canine College LLC offers a variety of training programs, both in-person and online, for dogs of all ages and breeds. Their services include:

  • In-Person Behavior Training:
    • Terror to Terrific Teens™ (T³): An 8-week program for teenage dogs who are struggling with behavioral issues.
    • Perfectly Imperfect Pups: An 8-week program for dogs who are exhibiting anxiety, barking, lunging, or snapping at strangers or dogs.
    • From Shy to Hi: An 8-week program for dogs who are afraid of everything, including new people, storms, or even their owners.
    • Stay and Learn™: A 20-day program where dogs stay with a certified trainer from Monday to Friday, receiving daily, consistent training. Owners receive support on weekends to maintain and reinforce training at home.
  • DIY Online Training:
    • Smart Start™: A self-paced mini-course for newly adopted dogs, covering common challenges during the first four weeks of bringing a new dog home.
    • Jump Start your Pup Smart™: An online program for puppies 8 weeks to 8 months old, addressing common puppy problems.
    • Terror to Terrific Teens™: An online program for dogs 8 months to 2 years old, helping owners navigate the teenage years and turn their dog's energy into a positive connection.

All in-person training programs include:

  • 8 private sessions over 8 weeks
  • Coach in your Pocket: Access to a personal canine coach between sessions
  • Smarty Paws Video Vault: 24/7 access to quick tips and training guidance
  • Weekly session updates via voice memo and/or video
  • Membership in the Smarty Paws Canine College™ Private Facebook Group
  • Membership in the Tails & Trails™(T&T) Private Facebook Group (for in-person clients only)
  • Farm Stays (for in-person clients only)

All online training programs include:

  • Smarty Paws Video Vault: 24/7 access to quick tips and training guidance
  • Membership in the Smarty Paws Canine Community™ Facebook Group
  • Discounted rate on in-person training programs

Certifications

Cara holds a CPDT-KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed), KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy-Canine Training Partner).

Specializations

Smarty Paws Canine College LLC specializes in positive reinforcement dog training, focusing on helping dogs with fear, anxiety, reactivity, and general obedience. They also offer programs for puppies and teenage dogs.

Training Methods

Smarty Paws Canine College LLC uses force-free and positive reinforcement-based training methods to build a relationship of clear communication between dogs and their owners.

Customer Reviews

Melissa C.: Maggie, our two year old labradoodle, came to us six months ago with extreme fears about men and being out in public. Through working with Cara, she has improved significantly!
Mike I.: Cara at Smarty Paws is absolutely the best ever to help with our dogs. Not only is she patient with the dogs, but she is also patient with the owners. We have learned a lot from her. Our dog is becoming more confident and well behaved through her expert advice and training.
Ieshia L.: I've seen what they are capable of. Over the past 5 years of utilizing their services, I couldn't imagine trusting anyone else. I swear they speak dog! My dog is so much better since Cara helped me socialize him.

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Rosy Rover Training, LLC

US

Rosy Rover Training, LLC

Tamara began training animals when she adopted her first rescue, Zena, 30 years ago.
In 2014, Tamara began competing in AKC Obedience and Rally with her standard poodle, Rosy, who due to life circumstances, became her service animal with an additional 2 years of training.
In 2018, Tamara began specifically utilizing Positive Reinforcement (R+) training methods and went on to become a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Professional Dog Trainer (KPACPDT) through intensive study with world-renown dog and chicken(!) training instructor, Terry Ryan. She has since certified as a Fear-Free Professional Trainer and is a member of the IIABC. She is a Puppy Start Right for Instructors graduate and completed her Service Dog Coaching Certification in 2021.

Training Philosophy

Rosy Rover Training utilizes entirely positive reinforcement training, giving your dog the desire and guidance to happily choose the best behavior to fit your lifestyle.

Services

Rosy Rover Training offers a variety of services, including:

  • Puppy Classes (8 weeks - 5 months old)
  • Awesome Adolescent Classes
  • Custom Private Training
  • Service Animal Coaching
  • Behavioral Modification Consult
  • Online Training
  • Sawtooth Hounds Outdoor Training Adventures

Certifications

Karen Pryor Academy Certified Professional Dog Trainer (KPACPDT), Fear-Free Professional Trainer, Puppy Start Right for Instructors graduate, Service Dog Coaching Certification

Specializations

Puppy training, adolescent dog training, obedience training, service animal training, behavioral modification, online training, outdoor training

Training Methods

Force-Free, Science-Based, Positive Reinforcement (R+), Fear Free

Customer Reviews

"Tamara Rowe is a terrific dog trainer! She is calm, patient and has fun when working with dogs. She trains them to be willing and witty canine companions. And she is also good working with the owners, too." -Cedar Keshet Paonia, CO
"Tamara restored 15 year-old Sammie's confidence and trust after he was attacked by a large dog." - Rose Beck

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Olivia Ruth Newman

United States

Olivia Ruth Newman

Olivia has been an avid animal lover for as long as she can remember. Her childhood consisted of daydreaming about dogs, volunteering with animals, and learning how to better the lives of her pets. Suffice to say, very little has changed.
She has been working with animals of many different species for nearly 10 years. She acquired her animal behavior education through CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and years of hands-on experience. Olivia began training in 2019 using outdated methods, but after seeing the flaws of “traditional” training that relied on pain, she began seeking further education and learning from certified professionals.
In 2021 Olivia graduated from the CATCH Canine Trainers Academy Master Class program with distinction as a Certified Dog Trainer. During this time, she apprenticed under an experienced local trainer and volunteered in an animal shelter. Olivia received her Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed title in 2022 from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Olivia currently with with the Humane Society of Boulder Valleys Heath and Behavior Department assessing and supporting both animals and their people in need.

Training Philosophy

Olivia dedicates her skillset to helping dogs stay in their homes and treating each dog as the unique individual they are. She believes positive reinforcement training and individualized care to be the key to keeping dogs in their forever homes.

Services

Olivia offers a variety of services, including:

  • Free Phone Consultation: A 15-minute phone call to discuss your questions and needs, details on services, and how a custom-made training plan is right for your dog.
  • Virtual Consultation: A virtual consultation to discuss training options.
  • In-Person Consultation: An in-person consultation for in-depth discussions custom plans, and immediate training.
  • Private Sessions: All the benefits of classes brought to your front door!
  • Foundation Skills: A 4 week course made up of 45-minute sessions that will teach you and your pup the basics of training, safety skills, and how to continue training on your own!
  • Loose Leash Walking: A 4 week course made up of 45-minute sessions that includes how to maintain a loose leash, street safety, and real-life practice!
  • Behavior Modification: A custom-made training plan designed specifically for you and your pup to work on behaviors like anxiety, reactivity, or fear.

Certifications

Olivia holds a Certification in Professional Dog Training – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and a CATCH Certified Dog Trainer (CCDT) certifications.

Training Methods

Olivia is dedicated to using positive and pain-free methods in accordance to the most up-to-date research within animal behavior.

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Hannah Thiemann

United States

I WANT TO BRING JOY TO YOUR LIFE WITH YOUR DOG!
I’ve loved dogs my whole life, so it was no surprise when I chose to work for an animal shelter after college. Very quickly, I realized that love alone was not enough: I needed a lot more knowledge if I was going to make a difference!
Motivated by a desire to improve welfare for dogs and humans alike, I’ve studied under industry leaders to provide the best help for fearful and anxious dogs.
I am an honors graduate of The Academy for Dog Trainers (“the Harvard of dog training”), a Fear Free Certified Professional, and a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer. I am devoted to continuing my learning life-long so I can continue to provide dog lovers with effective, ethical, evidence-based training.

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Bettina Schaden

United States

Bettina Schaden came to dog training via her own sensitive dog, who needed a lot of support managing anxiety in addition to all the basics of living among humans. Through expert mentors in the Denver, CO area, she pursued the path of positive training, always relying on the most current scientific knowledge on behavior.

Her past career as a musician and school teacher gives her a unique perspective on the learning process and a keen sense for breaking down skills into digestible bites for both dogs and people.

As a dog trainer at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, she teaches classes for the community and helps sheltered dogs become more easily adoptable through behavior modification programs. Always a life-long learner, she continues her education by attending conferences and seminars, reading, and observing other renowned trainers in action. Her inspiration comes from professionals like Kathy Sdao, Dr. Patricia McConnel, Ken Ramirez, among others.

Bettina is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), member of the Pet Professional Guild, and a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

When not training dogs, Bettina enjoys tinkering and crafting, practicing yoga, playing violin, riding her bike, and cooking.

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Jordan Kathryn Mason Maldonado

United States

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Kieran Patrick Vaughan

United States

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Colleen M. Tekamp

United States

At Paw School, everything we do is based on the idea that all dogs deserve to be happy, healthy, and active. With that as our foundation, we’ve created a progressive, positive training program that will keep your dog physically fit, mentally sharp, and – best of all – excited to see what each day’s adventure will bring.

No matter the age, breed, or background, Paw School can help you bring out the best in your dog:
- Puppy classes to develop confident, socialized, well-behaved family dogs
- Introduce or polish up basic to advanced Dog obedience skills
- Discover and learn dog agility, as a different challenge to satisfy your dog’s drive to work
- Find the guidance and resources for correcting dog behavior problems that so many dog-parents struggle with
- Strengthen your bond with your pet, our training methods for dogs teach you how to communicate effectively, in a positive and rewarding way

Communication with your dog is a two-way street; in order to be a great partner and leader, you need to understand your dog just as much as he understands what you’re asking for.

Our most effective dog training methods are based on the underlying principle of engagement, incorporating reward-based techniques into your classes, homework and ongoing training plan.

Using positive reinforcement dog training not only encourages your dog to make great choices, but it also places an emphasis on – that’s right – FUN!

Providing both you and your dog with the tools to become successful, you’ll both learn to love the art of dog training and you’ll find the joy of having an obedient dog that chooses to listen!

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Jennifer Moss Logan

United States

Newly adopted dog adapting to your home and family? Adolescent dog with tricky behaviors? Wanting a strong start for your puppy (even with social distancing)? Seeing unexpected changes in behavior for your adult dog? Scruffy Love Dog Training provides customized at-home dog training for each client, and can help you with:

  • Basic obedience
  • Puppy Training
  • Potty training/house soiling
  • Jumping
  • Pulling
  • Reactivity to other dogs
  • Fear of strangers
  • And many other behaviors

With Scruffy Love Dog Training, you will:

  • Learn to understand your dog's behavior and communicate in a way she/he can understand.
  • Experience and practice techniques that are grounded in positive reinforcement and focused on strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
  • Be provided with a training plan developed to work for you, your family, your home/neighborhood environment - and of course, your dog!

Jennifer Moss Logan's experience brings together 8 years as a dog trainer with over two decades as an educator working with adults and families. She is certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers.

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James Aaron Aguero

United States

Fuzzles Dog Training focuses on working with active, urban-dwelling pawrents that face different challenges than suburban or rural households. We offer in-home private lessons and day training formats to teach skills, communication, and trust in order to address unwanted behaviors. We work with mild and moderate reactivity cases, but will refer more drastic cases to a specialist.

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Elise Brenninkmeyer

United States

Loose Leash Partnership
Loose Leash Partnership believes that trust, communication and joy are the foundation of any productive partnership. We help you strengthen your partnership with your dog through practical exercises to develop verbal and body language tools.

Our Training Philosophy
We believe in setting a dog up for success. Consistent boundaries, clear messaging, the opportunity to practice behaviors, and a gradual increase in the level of challenge are key components of effective training.

What We Don't Do
Animals can't learn when they are stressed and there is nothing more dangerous than a dog who is suppressing fear. That is why we do not use pain or intimidation in our training. We agree with the US Military that a partnership based on trust and a desire to work together is more reliable than a subservience based on dominance.

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Tanya Stoimenova Lim

United States

We specialize in providing the most current, science-based and positive dog training and doggy doula® services, personally-tailored for you, your family, and your dog!

Our mission is to help you build the most fun, stress-free and rewarding relationship with your furry best friend.

Whether you are a new puppy parent, just adopted a canine companion, or your adult pup needs a skills refresher, we are here to help!

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Ursa M. Acree

United States

There are less than 150 veterinary behaviorists world-wide — and we have the most experienced Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist in Colorado. It takes an average of 12 years of schooling to become a veterinary behaviorist—a veterinary doctor specially trained to work with behavior problems. Veterinary behaviorists can legally diagnose behavior issues, assess and treat the medical components of behavior problems, and prescribe diets, supplements, and medications when needed to support behavior modification and training.

The Behavior Vets team is led by our Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist, and rounded out by veterinary behavior residents, veterinarians with a special interest in behavior, and the best behavior consultants and animal trainers to be found in our great state.

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Erica C. Lichtman

United States

Erica C. Lichtman

History
Erica knew she wanted to train animals since her first Sea World show at 7 years old. After training various species while interning at three zoos, a dog kennel, and a dolphin training facility, she knew her path was meant to be with dogs. Her first dog training job was working for Guiding Eyes for the Blind, where she spent three years creating the foundation of what she knows now. There, she worked with roughly 20 trainers, seeing many different handling styles and learning techniques from each one of them. Freedom Service Dogs brought her to Colorado. She learned to quickly evaluate dogs as they would pull them from shelters to train them to be service dogs for people with various special needs. Most recently, she worked at a vet hospital, daycare, boarding, training, and grooming facility for 7 years. As the Dog Training Manager, she assisted other trainers with their more challenging cases as well as trained roughly 35 of her own dogs each week. Due to the nature of the facility and her position, she was most often working with dogs with aggression towards other dogs, humans, veterinarians, and groomers.

Training Philosophy
Erica believes that our dogs are our best friends and our family. She will never use the word dominant or alpha as she wouldn’t want to have a relationship with any dog where they feared her, but she does demand a relationship where they respect her. She wants the same for you. As your trainer, she will teach you how to create clear boundaries for your dog and have them see you as a source of confidence and protection. They will be focusing on teaching your dog what you want them to do, rather than what you don’t want them to do. They will teach them alternative behaviors for the naughty things they are doing now. She is positively reinforcement based, using a ton of food, praise, and pets to create obedient but happy dogs. She follows the LIMA philosophy, standing for least invasive and minimally intrusive. Meaning, if a correction needs to be introduced, it will be the least aversive one that is appropriate for your dog. Not all dogs are the same and not all dogs should be trained the same way. She promises to train your dog in a way that fits their particular temperament. Her goal is to always build them up.

Services
Erica offers both in-person and virtual private lessons. In-person private lessons are a great way to get individualized attention to cover the specific topics that are important to you and your family. In person private lessons are fantastic for-

  • Leash reactivity
  • Aggression of all kinds- Dog, human, intra household, veterinary, or grooming
  • Resource guarding
  • Basic and advanced obedience
  • Puppy training
  • Heeling
  • Recall
  • Service dog training
  • Therapy dog training
  • Manners in public
  • Impulse control
  • Separation anxiety
  • Countersurfing
  • Jumping
  • Nipping
  • Teacher's Time and Study Abroads

Don’t feel like doing the treat and repeat over and over (and over)? Erica would love to do it for you. Teacher’s Time is one on one time where your trainer will work with your dog in your home to practice the repetitions. Study Abroads are also one on one time with the trainer but geared at practicing the training that was learned in previous sessions but in parks or dog friendly stores.
These types of training sessions are great for-

  • Puppy socialization and exposure
  • Name recognition
  • Basic and advanced obedience
  • Recall
  • Countersurfing
  • Waiting at doors
  • Car behavior
  • Therapy dog training
  • Service dog training
  • and manners in public

Virtual lessons are a great option for owners that plan on doing the majority of the work on their own but need some direction or coaching. They are also a wonderful option if you’d like to work with Erica but are outside of her area.
Some topics that are well suited for virtual lessons include, but are not limited to-

  • Potty training
  • Name recognition
  • Crate training
  • Basic obedience
  • Advanced obedience
  • Trick training
  • Destruction
  • Marking in the house
  • and Muzzle training

Certifications

Specializations
Leash reactivity, aggression, resource guarding, basic and advanced obedience, puppy training, heeling, recall, service dog training, therapy dog training, manners in public, impulse control, separation anxiety, countersurfing, jumping, nipping, puppy socialization and exposure, name recognition, basic and advanced obedience, recall, countersurfing, waiting at doors, car behavior, therapy dog training, service dog training, manners in public, potty training, name recognition, crate training, basic obedience, advanced obedience, trick training, destruction, marking in the house, and muzzle training

Training Methods
Positive reinforcement based, using a ton of food, praise, and pets to create obedient but happy dogs. She follows the LIMA philosophy, standing for least invasive and minimally intrusive.

Customer Reviews
Norma Schneider: I wish I found her much sooner! My experience was very personalized, she really understood and catered to the way my sensitive, anxious, dog learned and processed his environment. She set him up for success in every session and took things at his pace, always using positive reinforcement. I don’t have a single complaint about our time working with Erica; Tash and I both learned so much.
Pamela Goodland: Could not recommend Erica enough for dog training. She does a great job of setting expectations from the very beginning so you know exactly what you’re signing up for when you train with her. Her training is affordable and we’ve seen a ton of improvement with our dog when it comes to her reactivity on the leash as well as socializing with other dogs so she can go to day care. Erica also does a great job of transferring knowledge to us so we can practice at home!
Stephanie Howell: Simply put, Erica is phenomenal. She is a miracle worker. Our dog was so loving with the family but was very challenging outside of the house. We went to multiple trainers and went through multiple medications before meeting Erica. She understood him from the first second she met him. She basically became family and helped us with a plan for him that worked. When I say she went above and beyond, it’s putting it lightly. She has such a passion for dogs and their families and every dog we have from here on out will meet with Erica. Come for the training, stay for the fun and love of dogs. You won’t regret it.

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Sami Griffin

United States

Sam Griffin is a dog and cat trainer who lives in Broomfield, Colorado with their wife and cat Sushi. They are the owner of Wise Whiskers Training, a queer-owned business. Sam is passionate about educating people on queerness and how all systems of oppression are interlocked. They believe that anti-oppression and animal welfare are connected.


Training Philosophy
Sam Griffin uses force-free and science-based methods focused on meeting animals' needs. They follow the LIMA humane hierarchy and the newer LIFE framework. This involves addressing the whole animal and their needs, setting them up for success and utilizing positive reinforcement. Sam believes that these methods are the most ethical, effective, and humane, and that they help improve animal's wellbeing and joy.


Services
Sam Griffin offers a variety of services, including:

  • Initial Consultation: 60-90 minutes for $225
  • Membership: Different levels of membership with varying benefits, including travel perks, discounted extra sessions, priority scheduling, flexible scheduling, appointment rollovers, video reviews, course access, email support, and text support.
  • Consultations: 60-minute appointments available online via video-call or in the comfort of your home if appropriate for your pet.
  • Hands-On: In-person appointments where Sam comes to your home or neighborhood and works one-on-one with your animal.
  • Lunch and Learns: Private education sessions for professionals on topics such as gender and sex, inclusive language, cooperative care basics, low-stress handling, and behaviorally-minded history taking.
  • Mentorships: Focused on understanding animal behavior, how animals learn, animal welfare and behavior modification.


Certifications
Sam Griffin holds the following certifications:

  • CBCC-KA (Certified Behavior Consultant Canine - Knowledge Assessed): Requires at least 300 hours of hands-on canine behavior modification and behavior consulting on fear, phobias, compulsive behaviors, anxiety and/or aggression.
  • KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy - Certified Training Partner): Focuses on both knowledge and skills in training dogs and other species.
  • Elite Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional Cats and Dogs, Fear Free Certified Professional - Equine: Teaches veterinary healthcare professionals how to eliminate fear, anxiety, and stress for happier patients, more compliant clients, and safer veterinary healthcare teams.


Sam is also a member of the following organizations:

  • Pet Harmony Mentorship group: Offers continuing education, community, and case studies.
  • American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP): Maintains up to date education on best feline practices.
  • Veterinary Behaviorist (AVSAB): Regularly watches and attends webinars and conferences.


Specializations
Sam Griffin specializes in fear, anxiety, compulsive behaviors (e.g. spinning, light and shadowing chasing, excessive licking or chewing) and aggressive behaviors (eg. growling, lunging, biting). They also have experience helping with a wide range of behaviors in dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, and other exotic animals.


Training Methods
Sam Griffin uses force-free and positive reinforcement training methods. They follow the LIMA humane hierarchy and the newer LIFE framework, which involves addressing the whole animal and their needs, setting them up for success and utilizing positive reinforcement.


Customer Reviews
“Sam is incredibly knowledgeable and patient! We have seen so much progress with our pup on meet and greets, as well a cooperative care.” - Maddy A


“I know some stuff about this stuff and I still had some perspective shifts and learned lots. And so many good reminders. The parallels between gendered language / labels with non-human animals and human animals was spectacular 🌟” Cheryl Warner, KPA-CTP


“It was awesome and super helpful! One thing I realized is that, even though our pronouns are listed in our email signatures, on our Zoom accounts, and in the podcast, we don't have them listed on our Meet the Team page. I also believe that some of our handouts may still have gendered language that can be spruced up a bit. So thank you for helping Pet Harmony to improve!” - Emily Strong

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Peter Joshua Barinski

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What’s essential in choosing a Dog Trainer?

Looking for professional dog trainers in Denver, CO? Finding the right trainer for your furry companion is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. We've compiled a list of experienced dog trainers in the Denver area to offer you a range of expertise and training methods to suit your dog's unique needs.

Customized Training

Tailored training programs to address specific behaviors and needs of your dog.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from the expertise of professional trainers who understand dog behavior and psychology.

Improved Communication

Enhance your bond with your dog through effective communication and understanding.

Behavior Modification

Address and correct problematic behaviors through proven training techniques.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog adapt and thrive in various social settings and environments.

Customized Training

Equip your dog with lifelong skills and behaviors for a harmonious coexistence.

Finding the right dog trainer can make a significant difference in your dog's behavior and overall well-being. Whether you're dealing with behavioral issues, looking to polish your dog's obedience, or aiming to strengthen your bond, professional dog trainers in Denver, CO are here to help. Invest in your dog's future and enjoy a more fulfilling relationship with your four-legged friend.

Unleash the full potential of your canine companion with expert dog trainers in Austin. These seasoned professionals bring years of experience and a deep understanding of canine behavior to every training session. No matter the breed or age, we tailor our approach to suit the unique needs of your furry friend.

Customized Training

Tailored training programs to address specific behaviors and needs of your dog.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from the expertise of professional trainers who understand dog behavior and psychology.

Improved Communication

Enhance your bond with your dog through effective communication and understanding.

Behavior Modification

Address and correct problematic behaviors through proven training techniques.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog adapt and thrive in various social settings and environments.

Customized Training

Equip your dog with lifelong skills and behaviors for a harmonious coexistence.

Ready to embark on a transformative journey with your dog? Contact trainers today to schedule your first session. Our team is here to support you and your canine companion every step of the way.

We've got the answers for your questions

What are the key qualities to look for in a dog trainer in Denver, CO?

When searching for a dog trainer in Denver, CO, it's crucial to find someone who is experienced, certified, and has a positive training approach. Look for trainers who have a good understanding of various dog breeds and their specific needs.

Are there dog trainers in Denver, CO specializing in specific breeds or behaviors?

Yes, in Denver, CO, you can find dog trainers who specialize in specific breeds or behaviors, such as aggression, anxiety, or obedience training. Some trainers may also focus on particular breeds, understanding their unique characteristics and training needs.

What training methods do dog trainers in Denver, CO typically use?

Dog trainers in Denver, CO often use positive reinforcement training methods. This approach focuses on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing bad behavior, creating a positive and effective learning environment for dogs.

How can I find a reputable dog trainer in Denver, CO?

To find a reputable dog trainer in Denver, CO, you can start by asking for recommendations from local veterinarians, pet stores, or friends and family who have used dog training services in the area. Additionally, you can search online for reviews and testimonials from previous clients.

What is the average cost of dog training in Denver, CO?

The cost of dog training in Denver, CO can vary based on the trainer's experience, the type of training required, and the duration of the sessions. On average, group classes may range from $100 to $300, while private training sessions can range from $50 to $150 per hour.

Do dog trainers in Denver, CO offer in-home training sessions?

Yes, many dog trainers in Denver, CO offer in-home training sessions, which can be beneficial for dogs who may feel more comfortable and behave more naturally in their own environment. In-home training also allows the trainer to address specific behavioral issues within the home setting.

Are there dog trainers in Denver, CO who offer specialized services such as therapy dog training or service dog training?

Certainly, in Denver, CO, you can find dog trainers who specialize in training therapy dogs, service dogs, or emotional support animals. These trainers have the expertise to work with dogs to provide specific assistance or support to individuals in need.

What credentials should I look for when choosing a dog trainer in Denver, CO?

When selecting a dog trainer in Denver, CO, look for individuals who are certified by reputable organizations such as the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) or the International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP). These certifications demonstrate a high level of knowledge and professionalism in dog training.

How long does it typically take to see results from dog training in Denver, CO?

The time it takes to see results from dog training in Denver, CO can vary depending on the dog's age, breed, and the specific behaviors being addressed. Generally, consistent training combined with positive reinforcement can yield noticeable improvements within a few weeks to a few months.

What is the availability of dog training classes in Denver, CO?

In Denver, CO, there is a range of dog training classes available, including puppy training, basic obedience, advanced obedience, agility training, and more. Many trainers offer flexible schedules to accommodate the needs of dog owners, including evening and weekend classes.

Want to train your dog independently?

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