Austin, TX
Whitney Marie Spence
Whitney has always had a love for animals. When she just started high school, her family lost their last family dog and decided to adopt a dog. This is when they adopted a Jack Russell/Black Lab mix named, Hollywood. Very quickly they realized they needed help as she was very people and dog reactive. They found a trainer and it opened Whitney's eyes to the world of dog training. She began to research how dog's minds work and how to help dogs problem solve which led her to find positive reinforcement training. She now has a strong passion for working with reactivity and misunderstood dogs. Nothing makes her happier than being able to help owners understand and build a connection with their dogs. Our dogs are always talking to us and it is up to us to acknowledge and understand. She doesn't just train the dogs, but she trains the humans too!
Whitney began training professionally in 2015. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. She continues going to conferences and attending virtual lectures to continue growing in the ever evolving science-based training. Whitney has a Border Collie mix, Kimchi, and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Soju.
Training Philosophy
Whitney uses the most up-to-date, science-based, positive reinforcement training. She uses food while training as it is the most powerful motivating reinforcement and she can do multiple repetitions quickly using food. She also uses play and praise; whatever is the most reinforcing for your dog.
Services
- Puppy Training
- Basics & Manners Training
- Behavior Modification
- Day Training
- Canine Good Citizen Test
- Overnight Petsit/Board and Train
- Wedding Pet Attendant
Certifications
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
Specializations
Puppy Training, Basic Manners Training, Behavior Modification (Reactivity, Aggression, Resource Guarding, & Separation Anxiety), Canine Good Citizen Test, Wedding Pet Attendant
Training Methods
Positive Reinforcement Training
Customer Reviews
- "Whitney is a FANTASTIC dog trainer. I have recommended her to all my friends. I have learned so much from her. She has educated me about my dogs' specific behavioral issues and about dog behavior in general. Thanks to Whitney I have a much deeper understanding of my dogs' behavior and how to meet their needs. My dogs mean everything to me and now because of Whitney I am able to provide them with the fulfilling life they deserve. Whitney is very generous with her time both during training sessions and when providing support in emails. Hire Whitney you won't regret it!" - Muffin and Precious
- "Whitney is an INCREDIBLE trainer. She is so kind and knowledgeable about positive reinforcement training. We have a really difficult Border Collie and she absolutely LOVES her time with Whitney. Whitney is super flexible and accommodating in her schedule. Overall I would recommend her to just about anybody." - Dolly
- "Whitney is a dog whisperer! I have a 4 month old puppy and after one session with Whitney I learned so much to help with my puppy chasing the cats, responding to her name, some enriching exercises, and much more. Her training plans are so easy to understand and contains so many resources and explanations. I highly recommended her to anyone thinking about adopting a puppy or anyone who has a dog as I have learned so much that is crucial to raising a fur baby. I recommended her 1,000%" - Freyja
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.
