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Certified dog trainer
Jessica Lynn Lara
Jessica Lynn Lara

Portland, OR

Jessica Lynn Lara

Jess Lara is a Certified Canine Behavior Consultant in Portland, Oregon. She uses reward based methods to help clients create an exceptional relationship with their dog; a relationship based on clear communication, trust, joy, and our roots as ancient companions. Jess is always learning more about the art and science of dog training from seminars, books, conferences, online classes, or taking a local class with her own dogs.


Training Philosophy

Jess uses reward based methods to help clients create an exceptional relationship with their dog; a relationship based on clear communication, trust, joy, and our roots as ancient companions.


Services

  • One hour coaching session focused on your goals. Sessions may take place in your home, a local park, or another location that supports your goals.
  • In home boarding for your pet while you are away. Exercise, love, and specialized care given around the clock. Boarding available for existing clients only.
  • In home boarding with a focused training program and follow up private training sessions included for at-home success. You will receive progress reports and videos. Your dog stays in Jess' home with the option to go home on weekends. Board & Trains for current clients only.
  • Cost dependent on training plan, inquire for a quote.
  • 90 minute consultation to assist you in selecting and preparing for a new dog. Further assistance in selecting a suitable dog available for a per hour rate.
  • Give your dog a break midday while you are at work with a training session. Jess picks up your dog or works from your home towards your training goals.
  • Semi-private training session with 2 students + dogs with compatible training goals.


Certifications

  • Certified Canine Behavior Consultant


Specializations

  • Obedience training, puppy training, reactivity, leash skills, off leash skills, unreliable cue response, high drive dogs


Training Methods

  • Reward based methods including shaping, capturing, luring, classical conditioning, pattern games, enrichment, play, decompression, and management.


Customer Reviews

  • -Sallie & Strider: Jess has been working with me and our White Swiss Shepherd puppy for over a year now. He has presented real challenges with leash reactivity and awkward canine social skills. Jess has been invaluable in helping me understand how to move him forward with reward-based methods that bring about real change. She pairs him with appropriate dogs from her client base to learn better social skills, and there is always a sense of safety and well-managed interaction. In addition, she has trained him and coached me on bringing him to spatial body awareness that is precursor to many advanced skills. Our pup is bright and willing to learn, and he always comes back to us after BNT's or day stays with new skills he's eager to develop. The thing I most appreciate about Jess, however, is her lovely perception of people skills, factoring in the human end of the equation as the make or break in a dog's success. She assesses handler capability very well, and teaches—kindly and without judgment—to whatever level she finds. Jess has been encouraging, thoughtful and inventive with our unexpectedly challenging puppy, and we are so grateful that we came across her one evening in the neighborhood with a long line in her hand. “Training a dog?” I asked. “Well, I'm a trainer, “ she replied. The rest is a very positive history.
  • -Kronda & Obi: Jess is a dog mom's dream. We have a high energy, sensitive 3 year old Vizsla who has struggled being thrown in with a bunch of other dogs when we've left him with friends while traveling. We found Jess through Dog Adventures NW and booked a board and train with her while we went away for my 50th birthday. It was everything we could have asked her and more. Jess is a super nerd when it comes to dog training and highly skilled at managing and training all types of dogs. We felt completely comfortable that Obi would not be put into situations that were overly stressful. Jess truly treats every dog in her care like her own. Each day we were away, we got multiple photos and videos of Obi's adventures and training via a shared Google Drive so we knew exactly what he was up to. If there was any doubt that he had the time of his life, when we came to pick him up, he was happy to see us, but when playtime was over, he headed to the back door of Jess's house, ready for dinner! Obi can't wait to go see Jess again and you can feel comfortable that your fur baby is in excellent hands with her.

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

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.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

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.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

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.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

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.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

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.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

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.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

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.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

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.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

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.

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