Certified dog trainers in
Ventura, CA
Hand-Picked Trainers

Learn from the best, certified trainers in

Ventura, CA

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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Selena Schaney

US

Reale Dog Training

Phil Reale, the owner of Reale Dog Training, has a background in veterinary technology. He started the company after leaving his position as a technician to pursue his passion for dog training.

Training Philosophy

Reale Dog Training emphasizes positive reinforcement training methods. They believe in building a strong bond between owners and their dogs through clear communication and motivation, rather than punishment.

Services

Reale Dog Training offers a variety of services, including:

  • In-Home Training: Trainers come to your home to teach you how to train your dog. This is ideal for dogs who are reactive, aggressive, or fearful.
  • Group Training: Classes are held in a social environment, teaching basic socializing skills and obedience training.
  • Board & Train: Your dog stays at the training facility for engaging, positive reinforcement training. This program is tailored to address various concerns, from basic obedience to behavioral issues.
  • Home School: A trainer comes to your home daily to train your dog. This option offers the convenience of home training with the structure of a board & train program.
  • Training Tools: They offer a range of training tools, including treats, chew toys, harnesses, and mats.

Certifications

Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partners

Specializations

Puppy training, basic obedience, behavioral issues (reactivity, aggression, fear), leash walking, recall, socialization

Training Methods

Positive reinforcement, clicker training

Customer Reviews

Lisa Hricisin: We had a great experience with Reale Dog Training and I would highly recommend them to anyone. We first met Phil when he came to our house for in-home training sessions. He took the time to explain his training methods, worked patiently with us and our puppy to teach us, and included my kids in the training process too. We then attended puppy kindergarten classes and did a week-long board and train program. The staff was very helpful, flexible and accessible during the time our dog was staying with them. They responded to calls and texts with updates and pictures to let us know how he was doing.
Phil and all the staff were professional, knowledgeable, friendly, patient, and took the time to get to know us and our dog to best work through the issues we were dealing with. We would highly recommend it!

Greg Williams: As much as we love our dogs, we were having major issues with their behavior that we could not get under control. Having tried a few dog trainers, reading countless articles on the internet, and virtually everything else, we could not find a solution to improve their behavior. Whether it was jumping on people, asset guarding, incessant barking, urinating in the house, and/or the potential to bite, we were at a complete loss.
A friend referred us to Phil Reale, owner of Reale Dog Training. At first I was reluctant, as we had tried other recommended trainers, yet with our situation I was willing to give it “one last shot”.
From the onset, I noticed an immediate difference in Phil's process compared to other trainers. The initial meeting was consultation and evaluation. Following Phil's assessment of our dogs “issues”, he mapped out a detailed plan to address and correct our dog's behavior.
Our dogs have made incredible progress over the past 3 months. Phil's plan, coupled with ongoing training which he taught us, has resulted an incredible change in our dog's behavior. Again, Phil takes the time to create a detailed plan to address each situation. I am incredibly happy with the progress our dogs have made in a relatively short period of time. If you follow Phil Reale's process you will get the same exceptional results with your dog(s).

Deb Logan: Reale Dog Training has worked with my dogs both in our yard/neighborhood and at their training center. Reale Dog Training came to me with the highest possible recommendations from a rescue group with high standards and from veterinary professionals. To the words, professional, reliable, and responsive, I would add knowledgeable, effective, and caring. My dogs began making progress immediately. Because of the positive approach, both dogs love each member of the team and are thrilled to see them for each session. I appreciate that they listen to me and that my observations are used when they make training decisions. Their business practices are professional and the pricing is fair. I feel safe working with them with their stringent pandemic safety protocols. Reale Dog Training has my highest recommendation.

Kristin Mckenzie: I have known Phil for years as a technician at our vet. When I heard that he was stepping away from that position to start a dog training company I had no doubt that he would be exactly what a lot of dog owners would need! Fast forward to when we found ourselves needing a trainer. (FYI…when you lose a 17 year old Shih Tzu and your husband has a great idea to get a German Shorthair Pointer you will definitely question your sanity!)
Phil is a very patient, understanding and dog-loving human. He has an ability to convey “why” things are happening the way that they are and gives solutions for change. His method of training never includes fear or infliction of pain on the animal. That is HUGE for me. I want our dog to behave because he is rewarded in a positive way, not because he is afraid of the consequences.
Max (our GSP) is just a work in progress by nature of the breed. We were not surprised, we did our research on his personality/energy level and disposition… but I think that asking for Phil's help was a necessity.
In theory everyone wants a well behaved dog. But not everyone is willing to put the time and energy into making that happen. So you need to be realistic. This training with Phil is the tools that you need to start the process. It won't happen overnight but with consistency and effort, I think that Phil (and his associates at Reale Dog Training) are the perfect starting point. I would recommend them to anyone.

Kyle Washburn: I worked with Phil on how to train my extremely high drive field lab. He was patient, and continuously adapting his approach to help my dog. Today, I couldn’t be happier with how my dog turned out – and it all wouldn’t be possible without the foundation that Reale Dog Training helped me create.

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Birgit Scholz

United States

Balanced Companions offers Training, Behavior, and Wellness programs tailored for your canine companion, conveniently conducted at your home and surrounding environment in Ventura County and adjacent areas.

With over 20 years of experience, Birgit Scholz, the Owner, Operator, and Head Trainer, brings a wealth of expertise honed through continuous training and hands-on work with working breeds, high-energy dogs, and independent personalities.

Certified by the American Red Cross in 'Dog and Cat First Aid' and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, Birgit has a deep understanding of the diverse canine world.

Her approach focuses on positive training principles, emphasizing patience, consistency, guidance, mutual respect, and love.

She tailors training equipment to fit each K9's personality and offers bilingual training in English and German.

Balanced Companions specializes in assessing and matching puppies to best suit individual lifestyles and prepares homes for the arrival of a new furry family member.

The programs aim to establish a balanced relationship between owners and their dogs, offering insight into behavior and training methodologies.

Birgit's extensive veterinary experience has instilled in her an acute awareness of breed-specific traits, individual needs, and behavioral challenges.

She is also well-versed in grooming, handling, and nutrition, offering comprehensive wellness advice.

The focus remains on continuous advancement and education, ensuring that each client receives the most effective solutions for their unique situation.

For those seeking to achieve a balanced companionship with their K9, Balanced Companions provides the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to bring out the best in every furry family member.

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Veronique Pineau

United States

SixPaws Dog School offers dog training classes and private lessons. They use the positive reinforcement method, rewarding every good response for success.

Certifications include training equipment with gentle, flat collars, long leashes, and agility equipment for group classes. Their training philosophy emphasizes the importance of teaching owners and dogs how to communicate and trust one another.

SixPaws Dog School is located in Ventura County, California, serving Ventura, Ojai, Camarillo, Santa Paula, Oxnard, Thousand Oaks, and the surrounding area. They focus on training both the owner and the dog as a team, to ensure effective communication and understanding.

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Shannon M. Riley-Coyner

United States

Shannon Riley (Coyner) is a certified professional dog trainer, registered veterinary technician, wellness coach, and Karen Pryor Academy certified training partner. With over 20 years of experience in dog training, Shannon has dedicated her life to observing, caring for, and training animals of various species.

Her professional journey includes working in the Bird Department at Marine World Africa USA and serving as a handler and trainer for an African Serval Cat at Safari West, a private zoo in Santa Rosa, California. Shannon has actively participated in behavior studies, including the observation of bald eagles and addax antelope through the San Francisco Zoo and Safari West.

Her academic background includes a biology degree with a specialization in zoology from Sonoma State. She is a registered veterinary technician, a certified professional dog trainer, a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, a Karen Pryor Academy certified training partner, and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants.

In her professional capacity, Shannon has presented at the Annual APDT (Association of Professional Dog Trainers) conferences, covering topics such as 'Compassion Fatigue' and 'What Is Your Dog's Currency?' Furthermore, in 2021, she spoke at Pet Professional Guild's Geek Week Australia, showcasing her expertise in the field.

Shannon's dog training philosophy revolves around force-free, positive reinforcement, with her ultimate goal being to foster a healthy and happy relationship between pets and their owners. She strongly believes that diet, exercise, environment, and training all play significant roles in achieving this goal.

Shannon's experience also extends to her role as the former head dog trainer for PAWS for Healing, a pet-assisted therapy organization. In this capacity, she conducted temperament testing and assisted in the training of therapy dogs that visited hospitals, veteran groups, special educational facilities, and convalescent homes, contributing to the development of the human-animal bond.

Shannon's commitment to the field is evidenced by her past presidency for the Society of Veterinary Behavior Technicians, her status as an Allied Industry Member of the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association, and her sponsorship of the California Registered Veterinary Technician Association. Additionally, she created The Backyard Pet Talk Podcast, catering to both professionals in the animal field and pet parents.

Shannon is available to provide support with training, weight management, exercise, and behavior modifications for dogs and other pets in the Ventura area, ensuring a positive and enriching experience for both animals and their human companions.

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Peter Joshua Barinski

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Jechyl James

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Sandra Verbitski

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Lauren McKentire

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Guy Pearce

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Wesley Jachson

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Dingi Bells

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Mushita Babilon

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What’s essential in choosing a Dog Trainer?

Looking for professional dog trainers in Ventura, CA? Look no further. We've compiled a list of experienced dog trainers in your area, each dedicated to helping you and your furry friend build a strong, positive relationship. Our trainers specialize in various training methods, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your dog's needs. Whether you're dealing with behavioral issues, seeking obedience training, or simply want to enhance your dog's skills, our trainers are equipped to guide you through the process.

Customized Training

Tailored training plans to address your dog's unique needs and your specific goals.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from the experience and knowledge of professional trainers who know how to work with a variety of breeds and temperaments.

Behavioral Solutions

Address and correct problem behaviors, such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking, with effective techniques.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog develop positive interactions with other dogs and people, fostering a well-rounded and sociable pet.

Consistent Results

Receive guidance on how to reinforce training at home, ensuring that your dog's progress continues beyond the training sessions.

Customized Training

Gain confidence in handling your dog and nurturing a harmonious bond built on trust and respect.

When it comes to your dog's well-being and behavior, finding the right professional dog trainer can make a world of difference. With patience, dedication, and the right guidance, you can help your furry companion become the best version of themselves. Take the first step in enhancing your dog's life by exploring our list of trusted dog trainers in Ventura, CA.

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 plans to address your dog's unique needs and your specific goals.

Expert Guidance

Benefit from the experience and knowledge of professional trainers who know how to work with a variety of breeds and temperaments.

Behavioral Solutions

Address and correct problem behaviors, such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking, with effective techniques.

Socialization Skills

Help your dog develop positive interactions with other dogs and people, fostering a well-rounded and sociable pet.

Consistent Results

Receive guidance on how to reinforce training at home, ensuring that your dog's progress continues beyond the training sessions.

Customized Training

Gain confidence in handling your dog and nurturing a harmonious bond built on trust and respect.

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 services do dog trainers in Ventura, CA typically offer?

Dog trainers in Ventura, CA offer a wide range of services including obedience training, behavior modification, puppy training, socialization classes, and in-home training sessions to address specific needs.

How can I find a reputable dog trainer in Ventura, CA?

When searching for a dog trainer in Ventura, CA, it's important to look for those with positive reviews, certifications, and experience. Additionally, seeking recommendations from local veterinarians or pet owners can help narrow down your choices.

What training methods do dog trainers in Ventura, CA use?

Trainers in Ventura, CA utilize a variety of training methods such as positive reinforcement, clicker training, and dog psychology techniques. It's essential to inquire about their specific approach to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

Are there specialized dog trainers in Ventura, CA for specific breeds or behavior issues?

Yes, in Ventura, CA, there are trainers who specialize in certain breeds or behavior issues. Whether you have a specific breed or a dog with particular behavior problems, there are trainers who can cater to those needs.

How long does it typically take to see results from dog training in Ventura, CA?

The timeframe for seeing results from dog training in Ventura, CA can vary depending on the dog's age, temperament, and the specific issues being addressed. However, most trainers will provide a general timeline for when improvements can be expected.

Do dog trainers in Ventura, CA offer group classes or private sessions?

Many dog trainers in Ventura, CA offer both group classes and private sessions. Group classes are beneficial for socialization, while private sessions provide individualized attention for more specific training needs.

What are the average costs for dog training in Ventura, CA?

The cost of dog training in Ventura, CA can vary based on the trainer's experience, the type of training, and the duration of sessions. It's advisable to inquire about pricing during consultations with potential trainers.

Are there dog trainers in Ventura, CA who offer in-home training sessions?

Yes, there are dog trainers in Ventura, CA who offer in-home training sessions. This option can be particularly beneficial for addressing behavioral issues within the dog's home environment.

Are there dog trainers in Ventura, CA who offer training for service or therapy dogs?

Yes, in Ventura, CA, there are trainers who specialize in training service and therapy dogs. These trainers are knowledgeable in the specific skills and behaviors required for these roles.

What should I consider when choosing a dog trainer in Ventura, CA?

When selecting a dog trainer in Ventura, CA, consider their experience, training methods, certifications, and how well they communicate with both you and your dog. It's also important to ensure that the trainer's approach aligns with your training goals and philosophy.

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