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Certified dog trainer
Sara J. Scott

Alameda, CA

Sara Scott, dog aggression and behavior specialist, has been training dogs professionally in the East Bay Area since 2000. With a wealth of knowledge and experience gained through time and dedication to the art and science of dog behavior and training, she is deeply educated in this field. Sara brings her expertise to application with great insight, grace, and compassion for both species, human and dog.

Certifications:

  • Job Title: Owner/Trainer
  • Training Philosophy: Sara Scott provides modern, evidence-based dog training and behavior modification services for Bay Area dogs.

Locations Served:

  • East Bay Area
  • Oakland
  • Alameda
  • Berkeley
  • Emeryville

Sara has extensive experience training dogs suffering from fear and anxiety. She is an expert in resolving leash reactivity and aggressive behavior problems, handling these issues with minimal stress to both dog and owner. Sara utilizes modern, scientifically sound, and compassionate techniques that are proven to work and get results. Making training fun for both dogs and people, she believes, is the best way to achieve positive outcomes.

Sara is a certified professional dog trainer and a graduate of the Marin Humane Society's Canine Behavior Academy with Trish King. With extensive experience in fostering over a dozen pit bulls in her home, she served as lead dog trainer for BAD RAP's adoption and education programs, Pit Bull Hall, and The Ambassadog Project from 2006-2010. As a professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, Sara has taught group dog training classes for over ten years and has instructed for the Oakland SPCA, San Francisco SPCA, and Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation.

Completing the coursework for the K9 Nose Work instructor program with the National Association of Canine Scent Work, Sara has taught nose work classes for several years in the Bay Area. Her students have been highly successful in competition, earning titles up to the NW3 level. Sara has also studied privately with detection trainer Andrew Ramsey and has attended workshops with NACSW founder Ron Guant and Amy Herot.

Experienced in competition training for obedience and bite sports, Sara has trained privately under obedience instructor and founder of Fenzi Dog Sports Academy, Denise Fenzi, for 5 years, and dog trainer and ring sport decoy Francis Metcalf for 4 years. She is adept at incorporating working dog techniques to improve motivation when working with problem behaviors in pet dogs. An advocate for humane dog training

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We showcase a diverse group of accomplished dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement techniques. You'll find brief profiles of each trainer, highlighting their 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 approach not only is humane but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet.

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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