Spotsylvania, VA
Cara, the founder and canine concept coach at Smarty Paws Canine Care, brings over 20 years of experience in animal rescue, vet clinics, and working with dogs. Certified as a CPDT-KA, she embraces a training philosophy that emphasizes the avoidance of prolonged repetition and frustration, making training an enjoyable experience for both owners and their dogs.
Her mission revolves around Positive Purpose-Driven Play, aiming to empower people and their pets. Operating in Central and Northern Virginia for in-person services, Smarty Paws Canine Care also extends its reach virtually, catering to anyone with an internet connection and a desire to connect with their dog.
Cara's extensive background in vet clinics and rescue operations has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges that pet owners face in establishing a strong bond with their furry companions. She recognizes the frustration, self-doubt, and overwhelming feelings that often arise when communication with pets falls short of expectations.
At Smarty Paws Canine Care, the team acknowledges these struggles and provides tailored support to pet owners. By offering various program options, including self-paced and signature programs, Cara ensures that each client receives personalized attention and access to supportive materials such as handouts, a video library, and custom videos.
These resources are designed to address specific challenges and reinforce the lessons learned during sessions, fostering a stronger connection between owners and their dogs.
We've got the answers for your questions
Seriously, if you have any questions about training your dog, we have the answers.
We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.
Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.
All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.
Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.
Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.
Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.
Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.
All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.
Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.
Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.
