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Certified dog trainer
Summer D. Whittaker
Summer D. Whittaker

Leominster, MA

Summer Whittaker, a professional certified dog trainer, holds multiple certifications including Certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator with the American Kennel Club (AKC), Canine Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CCPDT-KA) from Karen Pryor Academy, and Fear Free Pets.

Alongside her three partners in crime, Blueberry, Orzo, and Pancake, she enjoys hiking and practicing agility. With over 6 years of training experience and more than 10 years of animal handling experience, she offers the most up-to-date information to help you and your pup live a happy life.

Three years ago, Summer embarked on her competition agility journey and has since earned multiple titles in the sport. She is also involved in scent detection/nose work and rally training, with a specialty in off-leash training. Her goal is to equip the community with the skills needed to solve problems and build lasting relationships with their dogs.

Her service area includes Leominster, Fitchburg, Newton, Needham, Boston, Ayer, Groton, Billerica, and beyond. Her certifications and awards include CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, Fear Free Pets, and CGC Evaluator.

Summer holds a B.A in Music Business Management from Berklee College of Music and is currently pursuing an M.S in Agriculture and Life Sciences with a concentration in Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare (to be completed in Summer 2023).

Specializing in puppies, basic obedience, reactivity, off-leash recall, agility, trick dog, rally, and scent detection/nose work, Summer is dedicated to providing comprehensive training to her clients.

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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