Stamford, CT
Kate Naito
Kate, now based in Connecticut, started as a dog behavior consultant and trainer with the renowned group Doggie Academy in Brooklyn, NY in 2013. She is fully certified by both IAABC and CCPDT, and regularly participates in continuing education to learn the most current methods and research. Prior to becoming a trainer, she was an instructor at the City University of New York for many years.
Now back in her home state, Kate brings her expertise to High Ten Dog Training, which opened in 2021.
Training Philosophy
Kate uses the most current force-free techniques to bring out the best behavior in your best friend. She encourages you and your dog to work as teammates towards a mutual goal, rather than use fear or pain to get quick "results."
Services
High Ten provides in-home lessons and private courses in the Stamford, CT vicinity.
Private Courses
Imagine a group training class... without the group! Private courses take place in your home, once per week for four weeks. Each course follows a set curriculum based on fun, force-free methods.
- Puppy Course
Set your pup up for success to prevent problems later! Start this class as soon as your puppy comes home. Each class addresses: 1. puppy topics like potty training and mouthing, 2. preventing behavior issues like separation anxiety and resource guarding, 3. socialization to new things, and 4. age-appropriate manners training.
4 classes / $460 (plus CT sales tax) - MANNERS 1 COURSE
A robust manners foundation for puppies or adults. The course addresses sit/stay, come, touch, leash walking, drop it, and leave it. Within that framework, we adapt the course to your dog's particular needs and level.
4 classes / $460 (plus CT sales tax) - MANNERS 2 COURSE
This unique course builds your dog's manners through canine sports and trick training. Improving your dog's impulse control, recall, leash walking, and politeness in public has never been more fun! The course is based on Kate's book Play Your Way to Good Manners.
Prerequisite: Manners 1 or equivalent.
4 classes / $460 (plus CT sales tax), plus book cost - MANNERS 3 course
Apply your dog's basic skills to real-life scenarios. We focus on calm interactions with guests, recall around distractions, polite leash walking in public, cafe manners, and more. This course is excellent prep for AKC's Canine Good Citizen test, and draws from Kate's book BKLN Manners.
Prerequisite: Manners 1 or equivalent.
4 classes / $460 (plus CT sales tax), plus book cost
Private Lessons
There is a reason why credentialed, force-free trainers rarely get reality shows — good training involves zero drama! At High Ten, we encourage you and your dog to work as teammates towards a mutual goal, rather than use fear or pain to get quick "results."
Certifications
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) by IAABC
Certified Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP - Training)
Certified Dog Parkour Instructor (ADP-CI)
Master's Degree in Education (MS)
Specializations
Manners and behavior modification
Training Methods
Force-free techniques, positive reinforcement
Customer Reviews
Kate is wonderful! She really takes the time to find out about your dog, the behaviors you want to work on, and then tailors the training to your abilities and situation. She sends a thorough review after each visit, with suggestions for further reading and videos to watch to help with your training. I'm so pleased at the progress our dog Penny has made in just three months! I also appreciate Kate's humane approach (no prong collars or e-collars).
Rosemary
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.
