South Bay Dog Training
Nathalie entered the local dog industry in 2007 as a professional dog hiker by setting up her business ‘The Dog Hikers’. The business was unique in the SF South Bay. There was no other business offering a service where a group of dogs would go on a hike in one of the local Parks and Preserves. The business grew fast and became one of the most successful dog businesses in the South Bay. The combination of force free methods and hiking multiple dogs by a knowledgeable professional were a sought after service.
Nathalie continued her education in the dog training and behavior field. For most of that time she operated under the name Smith Dog Training. Nathalie continues to offer her knowledge and skills to non-profit rescue groups such as Love & Second Chances. Her specialities are puppies, fearful dogs and aggression.
Training Philosophy
Nathalie uses aversive free & humane dog training methods to teach dogs the skill set to be a successful member of our society.
Services
- Puppy Training
- Manners 1
- Manners 2
- Manners 3
- Manners 4
- Bouncy Dog Course
- Tricks Course
- PupGility Course
- Loose Leash Walk/Recall Course
- Reactive Dog
- Puppy Socials
- Day Camp
- Private Sessions
- Virtual Coaching
- Pet First Aid
- Fear Free Workshop
- Enrichment
- Food and Treats
- Slow Feeders
- Books
Certifications
- Certified Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant
- Penn Foster Dog Training Program
- Red Cross Pet First Aid & CPR
- Dog Evaluator for Volunteer Dog Companion Program Mid Peninsula Open Space District
- Certified Dog Walker (DogTec.org) San Francisco
- Advanced Certified Dog Walker (DogTec.org): San Francisco
- Academy for Dog Trainers
- BAT with Grisha Stewart
- Get Smart about Training with Kathy Sdao
- John Rogerson: Dog to Dog Aggression
- Jean Donaldson 4 day seminar, Founder of Dog Bite Law & Prevention & Advocacy Group
- CATCH Academy Mentor
- AKC CGC Evaluator
- AKC Star Puppy Instructor
- AKC Community Canine and Urban CGC Evaluator
- Certified Fear-Free Professional (FearFreePets.com)
- CPDT-KA certification (https://www.ccpdt.org/)
- Scent work Instructor Course
Specializations
- Puppies
- fearful dogs
- aggression
Training Methods
- Aversive free & humane dog training methods
- force free and rewards based training methods
Customer Reviews
- Danny Hull, former Doobie Brothers band member: ‘I love to see the way these dogs are so expertly handled with love!’
- E. Blumenfeld: ‘Kim is a fantastic dog trainer and a really awesome person. Her techniques are gentle and effective showing her vast knowledge and experience in canine behavior. Kim loves dogs – all shapes and sizes!’
- Jean Wu: ‘Nathalie knows exactly how to work with my fearful dog! She is the best resource for dog training!’


