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The Best Dog Trainers in Olympia, WA of 2023

Merlin Noble photo

Merlin Noble

June 21, 2023

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Olympia, WA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Olympia based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 55,000 votes were used in compiling this list. We have only included the top trainers with sufficient votes and the trainers are ordered in terms of the number of votes received. Trainers that tied are ranked in reverse alphabetical order based on first name. All dog trainers on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This list is a subset of the broader Top Trainers in Washington list. To learn more about our dog trainer contest, feel free to view the dog trainer contest post.

Dog training is one of the most important activities someone can do with their dog. Many come to dog training through a specific issue they want addressed, anything from barking to separation anxiety. Some have adopted dogs from animal shelters with an abusive experience and some just have happy puppies looking for everyday life skills. Trainers can help with all kinds of specific skills and issues, from leash manners to territorial aggression to anxiety around skateboards to common puppy challenges. However, what many discover is that working with a trainer is actually a way for a pet owner to deepen their relationship with their dog. The enhanced communication skills that result can increase quality of life, be a rewarding experience, be a social experience and lead to more harmonious relationships. Knowing that one’s dog is having a happier life can dramatically improve peace of mind. As the saying goes: happy dog, happy life. And it extends further than just the dog, to the pet owners. Owner empowerment can actually improve the relationship between owners. And finding the right trainer can make all the difference in the experience.

This list is sponsored by Sniffspot, which is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with all private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches and more. Sniffspot has worked closely with dog trainers to create safe spaces for dogs and our top trainer lists are a natural extension of that relationship. You can browse Sniffspot's local dog parks here.

The Best Olympia, WA Dog Trainers in 2023

Graham Welch

I am a certified professional dog trainer, member of the IAABC, Olympic Peninsula Canine Cooperative a 5th generation resident of Port Townsend,WA. I live there with my partner Kimberlie and our dog Toshi, Ziggy the cat, our dozen chickens that I clicker train in my spare time as well as several guinea pigs and a lot of fish.

I am passionate about providing an opportunity for everyone regardless of financial situation to communicate effectively and build a strong relationship through training their dog and provide a happy and fulfilling life. I believe in letting your dog be a dog, consent providing enrichment activities, making training fun, providing choice, agency and creating a successful and force free environment for training.

Certifications:  ABCDT, CPDT-KA, OC-CBC

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • Board and train
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Basic Obedience, Day Training, Scent Detection, Emergency Recall, Distraction Training, Puppy Socialization, Behavior Modification

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, Over-Arousal,Over Stimulation, Fear

Training methods: LIMA, Positive Reinforcement, Behavior Consultations, Treatment plans

Why I became a dog trainer: I love dogs and because I enjoy the science of behavior

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing the moment when a trained behavior clicks with the dog, or they start seeing triggers in a more positive way

My #1 dog training tip: Reinforce early and often and set your dog up for success

Service areas: Port Townsend, Port Ludlow, Chimicum, Port Hadlock, Sequim, Port Angeles, Bremerton, Paulsbo

Website: https://faux-paws.com


Sydney Rain

Hi! I'm Sydney and I'm certified in Canine Studies from the North West School of Canine Studies. I've been training for about 5 years after working in a doggy daycare. My personal dog struggles with reactivity and that's what drove me passion for training. I love what I do and am so thankful to help families and their pets.

Certifications:  Certified in Canine Studies

Services include:

  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: I work part time in doggy daycare and train primarily with fear based reactivity. I'll cover basic manners or puppy socialization/training. I offer group classes several times throughout the year. I also petsit and do basic walks!

Behavioral issue focus: Mostly fear based reactivity or other fear based issues. I'll also take on frustration reactivity cases to work on impulse control and manners.

Training methods: We do an initial consult where I get to know the pup, then depending on the issues we either set up a set amount of sessions or we go on a weekly basis. I come up with a training plan and send them all relevant handouts I've made. I do only positive reinforcement training and love using pattern games to make training fun!

Why I became a dog trainer: My personal dog, Mya, had fear based reactivity and I wanted to help her so I shadowed my (then) boss who was a trainer at the doggy daycare I worked at.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching the dogs progress and both the dogs and their owners grow in confidence!

My #1 dog training tip: Make it fun and adjust your expectations based on the dog you have in front of you, not the dog you imagined/want to have!

Service areas: Washington state! Tacoma, Lakewood, Seattle, Graham, Puyallup.


Jen Lewis

Jen Lewis has been working with dogs professionally for 20 years, training for 19 years, and she has a wide variety of experience with all breeds, ages, and temperaments. She has a deep understanding of canine behavior and communication and has many professional accreditations and memberships.

Certifications:  AKC Good Citizen Evaluator

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • In home training
  • Deaf dog training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Basic and advanced obedience training, problem solving, tricks, day training, potty training, reactive dog training, intro to agility and other dog sports

Behavioral issue focus: I work with everything from new puppies to aggressive dogs

Training methods: I use modern force-free methods. I revolve our training around fun, focus, communication and positive reinforcement so you can have a well behaved dog at home and in public settings. We want help you build a happy, healthy relationship with your dog and give you confidence in each other.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help people communicate with their dogs better and help dogs stay in their homes.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The dogs! I love their individual personalities and quirks.

My #1 dog training tip: Ditch the bowl. So many behavior problems can be resolved with by giving dogs more mentally enriched lives. Simply feeding from puzzles, treat balls and snuffle mats can make a huge difference

Service areas: Puyallup, Sumner, Orting Buckley, Graham, Spanaway, Tacoma, Enumclaw, Auburn, Pierce County

Website: https://www.k-9confidence.com/


Heather Ringwood

Specializing in Agility and Advanced Manners training, Heather's heart, love, and training focus is in showing others how to have fun with her dogs. In addition to dogs, Heather also coaches and trains people. These two skill sets play a major role in her ability to help people communicate more effectively with their dogs, and learn how to embrace and engage with their dog's temperament and personality.

Heather is very active in the Agility world, both in teaching agility through HDI and in running her own dogs. She brings a wealth of knowledge in training and sporting, and working with the whole dog' from nutrition and impulse control to interactive games and physical exercise. She is committed to working with you and your dog to be successful in meeting your training goals.

Certifications:  FDM, CPDT-KA

Services include:

  • Deaf dog training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training

Website: https://www.happydoginstitute.com


Ashley Alden

After college and a bit of traveling, I jumped in to a "big girl" job doing clinical research at a military hospital. I enjoyed my job, but felt like I was living a double life.

I'd wake up at 5:30 am, let my dogs out, hustle to work battling the I-5N commute, spend 8 hours per day working with human patients and rush home to spend any remaining time with my dogs and foster dogs.

Back then, I was heavily involved in dog rescue and always seemed to end up with the behaviorally challenged pups who needed extra TLC before being adopted.

Every minute of my "spare" time was spent training, playing, transporting, networking, and yah know, cuddling these foster dogs.

The more experienced I got at fostering, the more challenging the dogs I'd be asked to take on were - and I finally admitted to myself that I needed a bit more education if I was going to help them.

Some of these dogs drug me down the sidewalk. One of them barked all day and night no matter what I did, earning me a nasty note on my front door from a neighbor. One of these dogs attacked other dogs. One of these dogs had separation anxiety. Many of these dogs barked and lunged at other dogs and even people while on leash. The stories I could tell you!

I applied, and was accepted to, the Northwest School of Canine studies and haven't stopped learning since!

My mission is to utilize my unique experiences fostering over 200 dogs, coupled with my love of learning and knowledge, to bring my clients the absolute best solutions to their dog's behavior challenges, whatever they may be.

Certifications: CCS, PSDT-A, FDM

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Basic obedience to behavior modification, group classes

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, Over excitement, Basic obedience,

Training methods: Private lessons, group classes

Why I became a dog trainer: To help humans and dogs live a more harmonious life

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Improving the quality of life for dogs and their humans

My #1 dog training tip: Mind your leash tension

Service areas: Thurston County, WA and the surrounding areas

Website: https://www.bullishlybrilliant.com/


Emma Holly

Emma has a Masters of Science in Animal Behavior & Welfare from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland and a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). She is also a Certified Separation Anxiety Trainer (CSAT) and a Dog Walking Academy Field Trip Coach.

Using reward-based, scientifically proven training and behavior modification methods, Emma specializes in canine anxiety, aggression and body language. She offers behavior consulting, seminars and webinars, as well as workshops to the veterinary clinics and the general public. Her goal is to provide people with practical, non-alienating or overwhelming solutions to addressing behavior problems. She wants to help people understand how their dogs think and learn. If we know WHY they do what they do, that's half the battle of understanding how to change and influence behaviors.

Emma is dedicated to turning around even the most challenging behavior problems, while helping you understand your dog's behavior and become more confident in working with them. She lives in Olympia with her husband, her two sons, two dogs, three cats, four goats and an ever-changing number of chickens.

Certifications:  MS, CPDT-KA, CSAT

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • In home training
  • Puppy training
  • Agility training

More info about service provided: Happy Dog Institute - positive reinforcement dog training, puppy classes, obedience, manners & behavior modification. Specializing in Separation Anxiety, puppy training and socialization, human stranger fear and aggression and agility.

Service areas: Thurston, Lewis, Mason Counties and surrounding areas, including: Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater, Rochester, Rainier, Tenino, Centralia, Chehalis, Montesano, Aberdeen

Website: https://happydoginstitute.com/


Paul Grosart

Paul Grosart (Pronouns: They/Them) \| BS, CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, AKC CGC Evaluator

Paul is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer through the Certification Counsel for Professional Dog Trainers, and an Accredited Dog Trainer of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). They have spent the last 4 years of their professional development focusing on service dogs, and learning best training practices to ensure the highest working success rate.

Paul holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of WA, and has over 8 years of professional experience working with a wide range of species and breeds (dogs, cat, small mammals) on basic obedience, household acclimation, and a variety of behavioral challenges.

On their off time Paul expands their skill set by working with their own dogs in Rally, Nosework, trick dog training, and herding. Passionate about helping breeders and rescues a like, Paul continues to expand their knowledge of conformation and ethical breeding practices, focusing on community education around early puppy development.

Certifications:  CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, CCUI

Services include:

  • Deaf dog training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Service dog training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Group class instructor at Happy Dog Institute, this includes Puppy Primer, Puppy Life Skills, and Chaotic Canine classes as well as Trick Dog and specialty workshops.

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, hyper arousal, demand barking, adolescent dogs, lack of engage or easily distracted dogs. I also work with dogs with specific breed and genetic traits like herding, barking, foraging, etc.

Training methods: Mostly I assess age, breed, home environment and build an enrichment and training plan from that.

Why I became a dog trainer: My degree in psychology opened me up to new developments in learning theory and communication skills between species. I love building off of foundations, promoting healthy and beneficial teamwork and making training more accessible to all pet owners.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love watching teams grow together and enjoy each others company.

My #1 dog training tip: Break goals into small obtainable steps, and don't be afraid to take your time.

Service areas: Tumwater, WA and surrounding areas

Website: https://www.happydoginstitute.com


Ann Howie

I began my life by being friends with the animals on our farm. As an adult, I found ways to incorporate animals into my psychotherapy practice and to advocate for the animal's perspective as a dog trainer. I helped develop the first Standards of Practice in the field of animal-assisted services, I have written books and textbooks for both volunteers and professionals, and I continue to develop and teach curricula both on-line and in-person whenever possible. Kindness is central to my way of being, toward both humans and the animals with whom we share this planet.

Certifications:  CCA, CCFT, LICSW, ACSW

Services include:

  • In home training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: CARAT assessments, therapy dog training, physical fitness and conditioning.

Behavioral issue focus: Anxiety, fearfulness, exuberance.

Training methods: I do "personality" assessments to help humans understand the dog they have and give guidance about the types of training that will be most effective with that dog. I focus on the relationship between the dog and handler and use methods to enhance a respectful relationship and give specific exercises and handouts to supplement my in-person work. I do behavior consultations as well as in-home and community training. I refer to other trainers and specialists for areas outside my expertise.

Why I became a dog trainer: I wanted (and still want) to help humans have a rich, respectful, and mutually beneficial life with their animal companions.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is seeing the light in dogs' eyes as they realize that someone is listening to them and feel joy in working with a human.

My #1 dog training tip: Listen to your dog!

Service areas: Thurston County

Website:  https://www.HumanAnimalSolutions.com


Sarah Forde

I use the most modern, science-backed methods to produce lasting results that will make you and your dog happy both during and after training.

Services include:

  • Board and train
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training

Website: https://dogdefined.com/


Ada Weigel

I fell in love with a naughty dog.
I needed help and I had no idea what to do. Gunner came to my home as a temporary foster. His company really grew on me though and the house rules kept shifting. 'No dogs on the couch.' Ok, fine. 'But no dogs on the bed.' Ok, fine. 'But definitely no feeding him from your dinner plate'

Cupcakes went missing from the counter and socks from the hamper. More concerning though were the behaviors that couldn't be explained by sugary temptations. He started lunging towards other dogs and growling at strangers. I became afraid to take him anywhere but I was in love and fully invested in helping him so his quality of life could be restored. After months of work we've been able to spend years going everywhere we can together without a worry.

Riverside Dog Training was founded with a lofty goal:
To align our training, and the skills we teach others, with the values of humane, accessible, and fun relationship building using science based learning and create a better everyday life for dogs and people

Since then Mika, River, and Jessi have each joined our family with their own quirks, but I'll save their stories for later. I love the opportunity to teach people how to live with dogs, and to teach dogs how to live with people.

The human-canine bond is truly unique.

I am grateful everyday for all of my mentors

Certifications:  CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP

Services include:

  • Board and train
  • Puppy training

Service areas: Olympia, Tumwater, Yelm, Lakewood, Tacoma, Puyallup, Sumner, and Bonney Lake

Website: https://riversidedogtraining.com/


Patti Howard

I own Your Canine Resource, Inc. in Olympia Washington, a thriving company which specializes in canine behavioral training and nutritional consulting. I bring 27 years of hands-on experience and extensive study to Your Canine Resource. My training techniques are grounded in rigorous research in behavior modification as well as the conviction that kindness and consistency are great teacher companions.

A consistent contributor to the dog training industry, I am co-founder of Society for the Promotion of Applied Research in Canine Science (SPARCS). Although no longer actively engaged, I continue to support the organization's mission and annual conference. I'm also co-founder of Washington Assistance Dog Education Center (WADEC). WADEC is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs to support people with disabilities. My experience training service dogs gives me unique clarity and precision when helping people train and socialize their companion dogs. Finally, I'm primary nutritional advisor in recipe formulation to Green Juju Whole Food Supplement, which you'll find in the freezer section of pet supply stores throughout the country.

A professional chef for 17 years, I'm at home in the kitchen and an advocate of high-quality yet economical nutrition. I invite you to try out the unique dog treat recipes on my site...or contact me about people-food recipes as well! Before moving to beautiful Olympia, Washington, I owned Seattle-based Contented Canine and The Pawsitive Packleader, Inc. Both businesses are in good hands with new owners.

I'm a graduate, and in good standing, of Northwest School of Canine Studies (CCS), an intensive and thorough study of canine behavior. In addition, I hold a Bachelor of Science. Finally, I'm certified in Advanced Canine Nutrition and am a Family Dog Mediator (FDM).

Certifications:  BS CCS FDM

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Primarily, I work with rescue dogs that present with reactivity and aggressive responses, using Family Dog Mediation philosophy of combining environment with training with genetics, optimizing access to building trust and communication between dogs and their humans.

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity and aggressive responses to the environment. Evaluation of back to work (K9 to 5) dog human teams.

Training methods: behavior assessment and goals conversation with primary session, resulting with in-home training program accompanying written recommendations on building their dog with degrees into the environment, in safety

Why I became a dog trainer: From childhood, a strong bond with my dogs...what I would consider quite an unusual obsession to their wellbeing. In my 20's I rescued a rottie mix that attacked my friends puppy. I then began my professional research into behavior and training, which I remain dedicated.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Attending to the voice of the dog, by reading language it is attempting to communicate...with mission of improving the canine/human relationship. I realize that even if I was a billionaire I would still be doing what I do each day!

My #1 dog training tip: If your dog wasn't on leash would they still be with you? Not so much literal, as philosophy from a chapter in my book to inform if we're operating from a place of management with equipment, or is the dog responding to consistent communication with the environment that we have applied.

Service areas: Thurston County

Website: https://yourcanineresource.com


Brenna Peterson

I currently have two dogs, a chihuahua mix and a border collie. My main hobby is spending time with my dogs. We like trick training, rally, agility, and other sports, and enjoy playing, walking, and hanging out. I am almost done with my Psychology bachelor's degree and love to learn. I like meeting new people and their animals, I enjoy drawing and story-writing, and studying languages.

Certifications: 

Services include:

  • Aggressive dog training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided: Attention & focus, skills to help with reactivity, foundation skills for competition obedience & rally, competitive rally, puppy kindergarten, recalls, leash skills

Behavioral issue focus: I teach a lot of reactivity classes for dogs that are reactive due to fear, aggression, or frustration. These classes focus on three fundamental pieces: basic obedience skills, trigger work utilizing Behavior Adjustment Training, and mat-work for calmness.

Training methods: Break the skills up into tiny achievable pieces (splitting vs. lumping). How to prevent and manage undesired behaviors. Set the dogs up for success, avoid seeing failure during the learning process, and reward the dog for effort over perfection.

Why I became a dog trainer: I got my first dog, Ozai, the little chihuahua mix, at a shelter. He was very smart and picked up on learning new things very quickly but did not react nicely to people touching him. Working with him through his challenges to be able to compete in multiple sports was an amazing learning experience. This was further intensified when I adopted my second dog, Zuko the border collie, as he provided even greater challenges, being afraid of people, very dog-reactive, and very nervous in new places. He is also making great progress and we continue to learn together.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love seeing the progress that people can make with their dogs! It's very exciting when the person and their dog are able to learn new skills. Reactive dogs can be stressful to the humans, and being reactive is stressful to the dog; helping improve the lives of others is very rewarding to me.

My #1 dog training tip: Start small. Break down behaviors into their fundamental parts, mastering each piece before upping the challenge and putting it all together.

Service areas: Auburn, Puyallup, Spanaway, Kent

Website: https://www.argusranch.com/


Sandra Roosna

I am a born and bred Estonian who shares a home with three couch-hoggers: Benny, Jess, and Waffles.

My career path began during my undergrad years at Brooklyn College, where I worked as a dog handler and overnight attendant at dog daycares around New York City. I then went from managing daycares to working and volunteering in animal rescues in New York and Phoenix.

My ultimate goal is to transform this training journey into a nonprofit that provides behavioral rehabilitation services for dog rescues and low-cost training for families who are considering rehoming their pets so they can keep them as part of the family.

I put a strong emphasis on forming solid relationships between people and their pups. While treats and toys are great for building and maintaining engagement, the ongoing strengthening of bonds with your dog is what leads to a happy and harmonious life together.

When I work with dogs, I have fun with it, and I encourage their humans to do the same! I approach every case with compassion and sensitivity.

Certifications: CCDT, FDM

Services include:

  • In home training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Off leash training
  • Puppy training

More info about service provided:

Basic and advanced skills (sit, come, stay, loose-leash walking, hand targeting, place, shake, and many more!)

Impulse control and settle

Barking

Advanced recall (reliably calling away from a threat or chasing an animal) and other emergency procedures

House-and crate training

Enrichment

Cooperative grooming care

Reactivity

Separation anxiety

Training methods:

I will help you figure out how to meet you dog half way & open up channels of communication that run both directions:

We will discuss training strategies, how to modify the environment & meet your dog's needs, while maintaining realistic goals.

I will provide you with strategies for safety & management for immediate relief.

We will develop a long-term resolution plan that meets both your & your dog's needs.

Your dog's welfare is my priority. I will not make unrealistic promises or provide you with band-aid "fixes".

I will teach you effective skills to get the best out of your dog, while giving the best to your dog.

I will provide phone & email support after we've completed our sessions. Your success matters to me - I always encourage you to reach out and ask questions.

My #1 dog training tip:

Teach your dog hand targeting ("Touch").
Here's why:

1) It serves as an alternative/more polite behavior to unwanted behaviors.
2) It's a great way to teach recall
3) You can use this skill to maneuver your dog without using restraint (e.g. off the couch, on the scale at the vet, out of people's way on the street, into the car).
4) Makes routine walks more enriching.
5) Serves as a distraction from triggers and helps raise responsiveness under pressure.

Service areas: Olympia, Tumwater, Lacey, South Beach, Sunset Beach, Boston Harbor, East Olympia, Kelly's Korner, Delphi, Rochester, Chehalis

Website: https://www.bennysbest.net


Sniffspot Olympia Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Olympia dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Olympia as selected by broad voting from the Sniffspot community and the general public. These trainers are expert dog trainers, who received votes from their delighted customers, due to their excellent dedication to customer service, excellent results and general care they exhibit for their clients. Many have worked with thousands of dogs and are highly experienced trainers.

How can I get in touch with dog trainers?

Each of the trainer profiles contains a link to their website. You can click through to their website where you can find more contact information.

Are these Olympia dog trainers certified professionals?

Dog training is not regulated at the federal or state level, so there is no standard dog training certification and professional trainers are not required to be certified. However, certifications are important to show that a professional dog trainer has a standard of expertise to help train your dog. Each trainer’s certifications are listed on their profile.

What are the top certifications for Dog Trainers in Olympia?

Some of the top certifications in the dog training industry are CPDT- KA, IAABC, Karen Pryor Academy - KPA certification, Jean Donaldson's Academy - CTC certification and Fear Free Certification. You can review the dog trainer certifications for each specific dog trainer on their profile on this page.

What methods are used in the dog training sessions?

There are many methods for teaching dogs and a lot of disagreement about the correct training approach. All of the Olympia trainers included on this list use positive reinforcement training only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used. This includes not using any specifically aversive approach to training or training aid, such as a prong or electronic dog training collar (also called remote dog training collar or shock collars). As for specific training programs and specialties, such as day training / doggie daycare or obedience training, you can see more information in each trainer’s profile.

Are dog training lessons in a training facility or are virtual options available?

Some dog trainers operate exclusively from a training facility, some do house calls and some offer video calls or other virtual options. There are pros and cons to each option and the most efficient behavioral training option depends on specific circumstances, for instance, what hours work best for you. A training center or training ranch can be a good option if your training plan requires facilities, training equipment or dedicated space. We recommend reaching out to the specific trainer you are interested in or browsing their website for more information.

Are dog training lessons private or in a group setting?

Every different circumstance of dog and owners may require a different setting, whether it’s housebreaking issues, anxiety issues, lack of proper socialization, food aggression or just bad habits. Each trainer has different offerings as far as whether they can offer clients a private training session or a group class. Trainers provide information about their private class and group class offerings in their profiles and you can browse their website for more information as well. It may make sense for your specific circumstance to reach out to the trainer to ask if they recommend group or private dog training classes. Some trainers also have a team of specialists that can provide even higher levels of service, or provide specialized sessions, such as pack walks.

How much does dog training in Olympia cost?

Olympia dog trainers have a wide range of costs for different services and phases of training. For instance behavioral modification that involves boarding is often more expensive than day training, and private lessons are generally more expensive than group lessons. Prices can also vary depending on specific behavioral issues. Lastly, some trainers have more overhead than others, We recommend first picking a trainer that provides the services that you are looking for, then reaching out to them to get up to date pricing.

Is training a dog good for the dog?

Yes! Training has many benefits for dogs. Whether with basic training skills or complex training techniques, going through behavior training with your dog can improve the bond that you share with them. Also, training can do a lot to improve the level of confidence enabling of a dog (and it can also help with building customer confidence!). Rather than being about exerting maximum control over them, it gives them more certainty that they understand how the world around them works. For instance, crate training can help a dog feel safe and at home in a crate vs fearful and uncertain. Dog training can teach important skills, such as leash control, potty training or a general level of obedience skills. And lastly, it’s just fun for the dog to learn life skills and for their family. Training can be very stimulating and enriching for a dog and serve them throughout their entire healthy life!

Can an aggressive dog be trained?

Yes! Any dog behavior can be worked on through training and coaching. Aggression in dogs is a serious issue, but it is also a term that is used very broadly. Many dogs that are thought to be aggressive are actually reactive, which is a different behavior altogether. A trainer can help you interpret signs of aggression, such as excessive barking, fear aggression and leash aggression, and type of aggression. If you believe you have a dog with aggressive behaviors, we recommend reaching out to one of your local top trainers to get their diagnosis and advice.

I am a Olympia dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Olympia you can be considered for this list. We update this list once per year, normally starting in January. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media and sign up for email updates with Sniffspot in order to be in the loop on the next round of nominations.

How much do dog trainers make in Olympia?

Dog trainer earnings vary widely depending on many factors, such as whether a dog trainer is an employee or owns their own full-service professional dog training business. According to ZipRecruiter, the average dog trainer salary in Washington was $37,610 per year and $18.08 per hour. It is impossible to say how much a dog trainer can earn with a full-service professional dog training company, because the size and profitability of companies can vary widely.


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See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Washington Cities

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Seattle, WA
Spokane, WA
Vancouver, WA


See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Washington

Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list

Oregon

Merlin Noble photo

Merlin Noble

June 21, 2023

Dog Trainers

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The Best Dog Trainers in San Diego, CA of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in San Diego, CA of 2023

The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2023

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States thumbnail

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States

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Best Dog Rescue and Shelter Contest

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Introduction to Dog Nosework

Why Dogs Cry and How to Help Your Pup’s Whining thumbnail

Why Dogs Cry and How to Help Your Pup’s Whining

Top dog guides per area

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The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.

How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2023

Welcome to the United States Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public. Over 55,000 votes were used in compiling this list. We have only included the top trainers with sufficient votes and the trainers are ordered in terms of the number of votes received. Trainers that tied are ranked in reverse alphabetical order based on first name. All dog trainers on this list are positive reinforcement only, as defined by no force, fear, intimidation, or aversive methods used.

The Best Dog Trainers in New Jersey of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in New Jersey of 2023

The Best Dog Trainers in Michigan of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in Michigan of 2023

The Best Dog Trainers in Washington of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in Washington of 2023

The Best Dog Trainers in Florida of 2023 thumbnail

The Best Dog Trainers in Florida of 2023

City dog parks guides