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Certified dog trainer
Laurel Silvia
Laurel Silvia

Kensington, NH

Laurel Silvia

Laurel Silvia is the owner of Lulu’s Legacy. Lulu was not her first dog, but she is the one that inspired her to become a dog trainer. As an adolescent Pit Bull, adopted from a local shelter, she presented Laurel with many challenges that she was not prepared for. Knowing that she had to learn more to safely integrate Lulu into her household, Laurel started on the journey which lead to earning the title Certified Professional Dog Trainer in 2011, and Certified Behavior Consultant Canine in 2017. Both are through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), an organization recognized world wide for maintaining the highest standards in the industry. In addition, she earned a certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington, and holds a certificate of excellence from Dr. Susan Friedman’s course entitled Living and Learning With Animals . In 2023 she completed the L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Course to earn a certificate in Family Dog Mediation, which has added the depth of viewing dogs and their behavior through an ethology lens, to her practice.


Training Philosophy

Laurel Silvia's methods are science-based, positive reinforcement training, which creates a dog who wants to work with you, and enjoys learning!


Services


Basic Manners- Level 1
This 6 week course provides foundation behaviors. This is ideal for puppies, or any dog that has had very limited training. At completion, you will have the tools to teach your dog:

  • Sit
  • Down
  • Eye Contact
  • Hand Targeting
  • Go to Mat
  • Drop it
  • Recalls
  • Settle
  • and Loose Leash Walking.

Handouts are provided to help you work on the behaviors throughout the week, and personalized help via email or phone call is available throughout the course.
Cost $540


Basic Manners- Level 2
This 6 week course builds on the behaviors taught in Basic Manners-Level 1. We’ll add in some safety behaviors such as:

  • Wait
  • Stay
  • Leave it
  • Drop it/Take it
  • Polite Greetings
  • and Recalls with distance and distractions added.

Handouts are provided to help you work on the behaviors throughout the week, and personalized help via email or phone call is available throughout the course.
Cost $540


Single Visit:
Maybe you need help introducing a new dog into your home, or need help with a simple issue like jumping up, or maybe need some house training pointers. This 90 minute in-home session may be ideal for you.
Cost $135


Behavior Consultation
This is the ideal option if your dog is experiencing behavior issues, such as reactivity/aggression, separation anxiety, or guarding behaviors. These more complex problems require an initial 90 minute consultation to best determine an appropriate behavior modification program for your dog. Follow up sessions are scheduled as needed, and are 60 minutes in length. (cost for follow up sessions, $90)
Cost $135


We believe everyone deserves a chance, so we offer discounts on our services to anyone that recently adopted a dog from a shelter or rescue.


Certifications

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT)
  • Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CCPDT)
  • Certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington
  • Certificate of excellence from Dr. Susan Friedman’s course entitled Living and Learning With Animals
  • Certificate in Family Dog Mediation


Specializations

Obedience training, puppy training, behavior modification


Training Methods

Science-based, positive reinforcement training

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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