Abby Harrison

With extensive experience in canine training, this dog trainer offers private and group lessons specializing in clicker basics. With a unique expertise in working with deaf and blind dogs, this professional also provides a special class tailored for dogs in rescue programs. The trainer recommends a light 6′ leash and a basic collar for training equipment, occasionally suggesting a Gentle Leader or a Snoot Loop in select cases. They firmly advise against prongs, chokes, or shock collars due to their potential to cause pain, which can hinder the teaching process. Emphasizing positive reinforcement, the training philosophy focuses on encouraging and rewarding correct choices to encourage desired behavior. This approach aims to make the best behavior choice appealing to the dog. This experienced trainer has served the Houston area and its surrounding regions, having previously worked at PetCo for over 8 years, teaching basic obedience classes across four different stores (in addition to private lessons at a fifth store). Additionally, they volunteered at the Houston SPCA, contributing to the Good Manners program, which focused on training older dogs to improve their chances of adoption. In 2000, the trainer joined the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and, since 2003, has volunteered for the AKC’s education department at the Reliant Dog Show. Their presentations at the event cover topics such as finding a new dog, preparing for a new pet, and the interaction between kids and dogs. After leaving PetCo in 2007, this trainer established their independent training business. In November 2007, they successfully passed the rigorous Certified Professional Dog Trainer test.