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Certified dog trainer
Kelly Hayden
Kelly Hayden

Seattle, WA

Kelly Hayden is a Seattle dog trainer and certified separation anxiety professional behavior consultant. After graduating from Washington State University with a BS in Civil Engineering, she knew she wanted to move her life in a completely different direction. She got her first dog Wally in 2014 and her work has been centered around dogs ever since. She has worked as a dog walker in both Park City, Utah and Seattle, WA, worked for a pet health insurance company, has volunteered and fostered with a local Seattle dog rescue, and now works as a canine behavior consultant. Currently, she has Wally and a little gal named Raisin. Raisin has separation anxiety and is fearful of dogs and strangers. Working to improve her quality of life has helped develop her foundational skills as a trainer, led her to specialize in working with shy and fearful dogs, and to create her separation anxiety online training program!


Kelly is a certified, positive reinforcement dog trainer with over a decade of experience! Helping her two dogs overcome anxiety and behavioral issues has shaped her approach to training and fueled her mission to help other dogs and their humans experience the same success and joy!


Ardent Dog offers online courses for dog training. The courses are self-study and include lifetime access to course content and lifetime access to a private course community group. The courses include:


  • Separation Anxiety Solutions: This course teaches you the science and techniques to implement to help your dog overcome separation anxiety.
  • Training Games for Confidence Building: This course uses positive reinforcement to create lasting behavior changes in anxious, shy, and nervous dogs.
  • Canine Enrichment Essentials: This course teaches you how to use science-based positive reinforcement techniques to enhance mental stimulation, prevent behavioral issues, promote health and fitness, and deepen your bond with your dog.
  • Reliable Recall: This course teaches you how to ensure your dog reliably returns when you call.


Ardent Dog also offers private virtual Zoom training sessions.


Kelly is a certified canine behavior consultant, certified control unleashed instructor, certified trick dog instructor, trick dog evaluator, and AKC canine good citizen evaluator!


Specializations: Separation anxiety, fearful and anxious dogs, shy dogs, overexcited dogs


Training Methods: Positive reinforcement, science-based techniques, Control Unleashed training style, pattern games


Customer Reviews:


“Easy games that really helped me with walking and nail trims.”
“If you're looking for a great introduction to pattern games, I recommend this course. The material is complete without being cumbersome, and presented in an easy-to-use, accessible, multimedia format.”
“The Training Games course is fantastic! Super easy to follow and tons of video demonstrations.”


Featured in The Seattle Times!

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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