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Certified dog trainer
Juniper Zen
Juniper Zen

Vacaville, CA

Juniper Zen is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and a graduate of the Canine Behavior Academy, formerly hosted at the Marin Humane Society (2008). She is a member of the Pet Professional Guild. She also continues her education with regular seminars, webinars, books/videos, and networking with fellow dog professionals.
During the past 15+ years, she has worked with dogs in a wide variety of contexts, including shelter work, dog daycare and boarding facilities, teaching group classes, private lessons, and competing in sports. She specializes in setting a good foundation for puppies and resolving handling/grooming issues. She also has a soft spot for dogs that are high energy and too smart for their own good!

Training Philosophy
Juniper Zen uses positive, force-free methods, particularly clicker-training. She has found this to be the best way to communicate with and teach our dogs for long-term success. Applied knowledgeably, it is effective for everything from basic manners to fear/aggression issues.

Services
Ruff Translation provides dog training services in Fairfield, Vacaville, Davis, Dixon, and Winters, California.

  • Assessment
    All training programs start with an Assessment. This appointment allows Juniper Zen to get to know you and your dog, and put together an individualized training plan. You'll receive plenty of information, including a prognosis for how much training your dog will need, and get started with the first steps toward your goals.
  • Private Lessons
    The perfect option for owners who want to be hands-on with their dog's training. Forget the struggle and learn how to work WITH your dog. Lessons are individualized and take place in your home, so you can fix problems where they actually happen. Juniper Zen can also meet in public for socialization work and advanced training.
  • Video Lessons
    Technology saves the day when in-person lessons are not an option! If you live outside of Juniper Zen's service area, have a highly fearful or aggressive dog, or are stuck inside due to the “shelter in place” order, Video Lessons are the solution to your dog training needs.
  • Puppy Camp
    A special program for “working parents,” who want their puppy to learn and exercise instead of being stuck in a pen all day. You get all the benefits of Board & Train - intensive training and socialization under the care of a professional trainer - but bring your pup home to share the weekend. For puppies less than 6 months old.
  • Nose Work Intro Group Class
    Nose work is an activity in which the dog is taught to use their sense of smell to locate an object - usually a q-tip that has a small amount of essential oil on it. This gives dogs an opportunity to fully engage in the strongest sense they have, in a fun, mentally challenging mission. It is a great way to burn off energy as well as increase confidence as dogs learn to navigate obstacles, ignore distractions, and explore the world. This is a 6 week group class.
  • Nose Work 2 Class
    This class picks up where the Nose Work Intro class ends. The dogs have learned to hunt for birch oil, up to their nose height, indoors and in containers. This class will introduce more height, more challenging interior and container hides, and easy exterior hides. This 6 week group class runs 90 minutes per session, and costs $200.
  • Board & Train
    The Board & Train program is on hold. Please email Juniper Zen for referrals to other trusted professionals.

Certifications
Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

Specializations
setting a good foundation for puppies and resolving handling/grooming issues

Training Methods
positive, force-free methods, particularly clicker-training

Social Media Links
RuffT on FaceBook
RuffT on Yelp

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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