The Best Dog Trainers in Connecticut of 2023

Welcome to the Connecticut Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Connecticut 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. 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 compiled 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 100% 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 Connecticut Dog Trainers in 2023

Elizabeth Ingalls

I've been involved in canine welfare in a variety of roles over the last 20 years. From rescue volunteer with multiple rescues, to Executive Director of Big Fluffy Dog Rescue, to behavior consultant, my desire has always been to improve the lives of dogs.

I have a BA in Biology from Bay Path University which enriches my understanding of the natural world. My training only utilizes humane, evidence-based methods, knowing they are the key to improving and maintaining the human-dog bond.

A vast majority of my experience has been with livestock guardian breeds, particularly Great Pyrenees. Over the last decade, they've become much more popular as pets, which has created a need for a trainer who understands their guardian personalities and motivations. Of course, I work with all breeds of dogs and the people who love them.

My goal is to help clients approach dog training and behavior modification holistically. By taking into account your dog's unique life experiences, breed, and mindset, each training plan is individualized. We will work together to use positive reinforcement to motivate changes in behavior that result in a fulfilling relationship between you and your dog

Certifications: CDBC- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant- IAABC
PPG Canine Training Professional

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I work with aggression and anxiety cases, as well as puppy and adult foundational training. I work with clients both in person and remotely. I love and work with all dogs, but also specialize in working with livestock guardian breeds (Great Pyrenees etc.) in pet homes.

Behavioral issue focus: Human directed aggression (owner directed and stranger directed), Reactivity, Resource Guarding, Intrahousehold aggression, Fearful and anxious behaviors, Successful transitions into new homes for rescue dogs, and setting puppies and their families up for a lifetime of success.

Training methods: I use humane based training methods for all dogs. I work with clients both locally and from around the world and we start with an intake behavior consultation. This allows me to learn about your dog's history, what they are doing and why, and what we need to do to change it. Initial sessions focus on safety and management (if needed), ensuring your dogs needs are met, and the 1st steps of a behavior modification plan. After that- training plans are customized to you and your dog's needs and goals.

Why I became a dog trainer: To enhance the lives of dogs and their people. My focus is on relationship building so that both the dog and the human can live a safe, peaceful, fulfilled life.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Celebrating my client's success. There's nothing that makes me happier than a video or message that shares a proud moment for my client and/or their dog.

My #1 dog training tip: Be kind and meet your dog's needs

Service areas: Enfield CT, North Central CT, Western MA, New Hampshire Seacoast, Suffield CT, Stafford CT, Somers CT, Longmeadow MA, East Longmeadow MA, Windsor CT, East Windsor CT

Website: https://www.elizabethingalls.com

Ashley Valentine

Ashley Valentine is a Nationally Certified Canine Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA). She has completed a Complete Canine Certification in Canine Aggression master course through world-renowned Michael Shikashio who is fully Certified through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She uses positive reinforcement, management, and safety techniques to help owners and dogs with all levels of aggression, reactivity and anxiety. As with any canine, her goals are happy, loved dogs with confident, knowledgeable owners.

In addition, she has also completed a master course on separation anxiety by Moira Hechenleitner DVM, CSAT, in which the training method is a positive and relaxing experience for the dog, which will allow them to desensitize and learn to be home alone comfortably. To go along with her canine CPR and first aid qualifications, Ashley has also completed her certification in Recognizing Pain in Dogs and is a supporter of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Ashley has completed her Certification (F.D.M.) and Licensing as a Family Dog Mediator in Behavior (LFDM-B) through Kim Brophey. This methodology gives understanding to the many aspects as to WHY dogs behave the way they do and how we can help them in a humane, enriching and enlightening way. This methodology helps bridge the gap between human and dog in order to have a better understanding, communication and trusting relationship from both ends of the leash.

She has a special affinity for helping fearful and aggressive dogs reach a state of happiness and is always the common face at every local rescue event and takes pride in giving back to the canine community through her training, fostering, volunteering and her specialization in behavioral rehab.

Ashley pursued her passion by obtaining her bachelor's degree in Animal Science from The University of Connecticut in 2007. Her passion for her animal training career began early, with riding horses at the age of 8 and by 19, she was managing a riding facility. She also built/owned/operated 2 riding facilities in which she trained horses to compete in Hunter Jumper competitions all over the East Coast. She then moved to San Diego in 2015 and put that education to work. Since then, she has become the go-to socializer for the most extreme fear cases found in a variety of rescues in San Diego and overseas.

Certifications: LFDM-B Licensed Family Dog Mediator in Behavior Division, CBCC-KA Certified Behaviorist, CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Complete Canines Certification in Canine Aggression and Master Course Certification in Separation Anxiety, CGC Evaluator

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Private lessons, Virtual lessons, Group classes.

Behavioral issue focus: Aggression, Leash reactivity, Anxiety, Fear, Separation Anxiety.

Training methods: Positive reinforcement, Management and Safety techniques.

Why I became a dog trainer: Love of animals

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs be heard and understood by their owners.

My #1 dog training tip: Train the owner, treat the dog

Service areas: San Diego, Ca

Website: https://Zoesdogtraining.com

Laura DeMaio Roy

Laura has a deep passion and love for working with service dogs and their handlers. She decided to dedicate her life to working with service dogs following a number of meaningful volunteer positions with service dog organizations.

After working as a guide dog mobility instructor (GDMI) for 6 years, she founded DOGGY.U in 2016 to provide access to free and low-cost service dog resources.

Through DOGGY.U she has been able to help foster and support an inclusive community for service dog owner-trainers and professional trainers. Her talent and expertise are in-demand as a public speaker at ADA conferences, dog training conferences, as well as corporate trainings.

She's been a featured guest blogger for national pet food retailers as well as a guest expert for local television shows. As part of her commitment to staying on the forefront of science-based training, she regularly attends seminars and conferences.

Laura believes that training should be fun for both dog and human!

Certifications:

Guide Dog Mobility Instructor (GDMI)
AKC CGC Evaluator
Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI)

Services include:

• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: DOGGY.U provides FREE online dog training resources, low-cost access to the DOGGY.U Community with 100+ training videos and live Q&As, service dog training courses, and online coaching.

Behavioral issue focus: Service Dog Resources: Public Access Training and Task Training (psychiatric, mobility, blind/VI, ASD, ADHD, PTSD & more)

Training methods: Free online training videos for pet and service dogs, dog travel, and trick training. DOGGY.U Patreon Community members get access to monthly live Q&As, special topic lives, and a video library of 100+ exclusive training videos. Private coaching includes service dog breeder and prospect selection, coaching other service dog trainers, public access work and task training with live zooms and video training review.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help individuals increase their independence with a service dog by their side.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Showing handlers how fun training can be! Unlocking a dog's potential.

My #1 dog training tip: Patience and a sense of humor will serve you well in dog training. Slow is fast. Fundamentals first.

Service areas: Online/Remote Service Dog Training

Website: https://www.doggyu.com/

Stacy Braslau-Schneck

I am dedicated to helping pet dog owners solve their behavior problems and 'love their well-trained dogs' through my unique combination of experience, education, knowledge, and skills. I pursued a Master's degree in Human and Animal Cognition (Psychology) and then founded Stacy's Wag'N'Train in 1998. I have been continuing my education, refining my knowledge and my skills, since then, through mentorship programs, volunteering at the Humane Society, and working with my own dogs as well as with clients'. I teach Dogbiz' Dog Walking Academy, and I am currently working on Office Buddies, a book about having dogs in the workplace.

Certifications:

MA
CPDT-KA
CBCC-KA
CAP2

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I help pet dogs and their owners! I specialize in reactivity training and helping shy or fearful dogs, as well as puppy training!

Behavioral issue focus: I help dogs who bark or lunge at strangers, other dogs, guests and family members; those who are fearful; and those who are wild and impulsive!

Training methods: I am a former dolphin trainer dedicated to using humane, positive training methods that take the dog's emotional needs into account - and the owner's as well! My training programs start with a consultation to find out the owner's goals and the dog's issues, and then we build some solid foundation of attention and focus. On this foundation we can build new skills for the dog to use in response to old triggers.

Why I became a dog trainer: I was asked to teach classes at the SF/SPCA when I was volunteering at the city shelter, and fell in love with helping pet owners find their dogs' greatest potential!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite is watching unruly and fearful puppies and dogs learn to navigate their worlds calmly and confidently, allowing their owners to enjoy their company even more!

My #1 dog training tip: Evaluate your timing, your rate of reinforcement, and your criteria. Make sure you are rewarding the moment/action you mean to; that you are rewarding those actions more than the environment is rewarding the old default actions; and that you are setting your expectations small enough to achieve success yet high enough to create progress!

Service areas: Santa Clara County/Silicon Valley

Website: https://www.wagntrain.com

Casey Coughlin

Casey Coughlin specializes in solving difficult behavior problems, positively starting puppies, and building strong relationships with your dog. She loves working with reactive and sensitive dogs.

Casey has been surrounded by animals since childhood and grew up competing nationally in multiple equestrian events. She attended college at the University of Findlay for Equestrian Studies and later went on to develop and lead the riding instruction program at Nash Hill Equestrian Center, in Gowanda, NY. It was there that Casey picked out her first puppy of her own, a Border Collie/Lab Mix named Riley. Riley was an expert farm dog but lost his job when Casey moved back to suburbia to finish her studies. This was when Casey's love for training and dog sports started. Riley had a new career as a trick, agility, and disc dog!

Around the same time, a young neglected English Mastiff joined the family. Through helping Sophie recover, Casey learned the power of positive reinforcement training in rehabilitating dogs with severe behavior problems, allowing Sophie to go from people phobic and dog aggressive to confident family companion.

Casey is committed to furthering her education and promoting science-based humane training, she has completed Dr. Susan Friedman's behavioral change course 'Living and Learning with Animals' (2019), enjoys attending Clicker Expo, instructed for the Fenzi Pet Professional Program (2019, 2020), and has contributed and collaborated with several dog podcasts, including Cog-Dog Radio and Fenzi Dog Sport Podcast. Casey has taught seminars across the country and Canada on topics ranging from behavioral wellness to solving dog reactivity.

Casey is positive, upbeat, and confident that she can help change your family's relationship with your dog. She currently lives in Windsor, CT with her partner Kristin and their family.

Certifications: LLA Course Graduate

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Private in-home positive reinforcement-based training ranging from service dog foundational training, to reactive dog training, to family manners training.

Behavioral issue focus: I commonly work with leash reactivity, environmental sensitivity, and fear-based aggression.

Training methods: I am a reinforcement-based trainer, who constructs creative management plans that helps owner and dogs streamline their communication without the use of inhumane training aids. While active management helps lessen unwanted behaviors, we train and build skills that then can take the place of management and build fluid communication between the dog and handler.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help people better understand their dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Providing relief to both sides of the leash :)

My #1 dog training tip: Focus on behavior as information and feedback about how your dog is feeling and how much they understand your teaching.

Service areas: Hartford County and some surrounding towns

Website: https://ledrdogtraining.com

Caitlin Coberly

About Kate
Hi there! Thanks for checking out my 'about' space. You can call me Kate. I work with dogs. Big dogs, bitey dogs and itty-bitty puppy dogs. All breeds. Most issues. Here's a little more about me, and how I got where I am.

Early years, experience and philosophy
I have been working with animals since I was a tiny tot. We had turtles and guinea pigs and lots of dogs. When I was only 12, I started my professional career in horse-training. I started green mounts for a local trainer and lent a hand (and a few ribs) to anyone who needed a horse 'broke'. In about 2011, my career took a dramatic turn when I decided to see if I could train naturally, without equipment or tools.

My love of 'naked training' paid off when my horses started to ask to work, and my dogs started recalling like Lassie. What I found was that working with more freedom required me to get more buy-in, and more engagement, from my team. Since I could no longer rely on coercion, I had to develop a deeper relationship. By building that relationship on mutual trust and enjoyment, the animals wanted to be with me. I found that this approach also helped my clients with their 'difficult' dogs.

This discovery prompted a decade long deep-dive into pet emotional health and well-being, and how that relates to problem behaviors such as aggression, compulsive disorders, reactivity, basic manners and fear related issues. This integrated approach forms the backbone of my daily work with challenging dogs. We resolve issues through a combination of lifestyle analysis, building two-way communication, and developing a deep relationship built on mutual trust.

From my family to yours
In my private life, I currently play around with mental health and wellness on my small farm. I have 3 horses, 2 cats, 7 elderly pointers, and one large human. We juggle two professional careers, health issues, and all the challenges of modern life, while aiming for grace, compassion and joy on a daily basis.

I bring my passion to my daily happiness-walks, thinking about new approaches and methods to help you, and your family, reach your best life.

I am passionate about dogs, and you are central to that. Your dog will not be happy if you aren't happy. It's all about building a happy family.

Kate's certifications
Kate is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC), as well as a Fear Free(tm) Certified Trainer. Additionally, Kate holds an advanced degree in Evolutionary Biology, and a teaching certificate from Duke University. My geek factor ranges into the odd and unusual, training dogs, falcons, horses, fish, and even spiders (not to mention assorted farm animals). I love diving into the literature on 'why we do what we do' to bring that understanding to our work with dogs.

Kate's ethics
We adhere to the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultant's policy on Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) strategies. We are committed to the Fear Free mission to provide education on emotional wellbeing, targeted enrichment, and the reduction of fear, anxiety, and stress in pets and their humans. I am also passionate about ethics-writing the before-it's-time article on the ethics of online dog training for IAABC.

Certifications: CDBC, Fear Free

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I work with all types and breeds of dogs, from fluffy Shih Tzus to Mastiffs and Cane Corso. I work to prevent or correct problem behaviors such as reactivity, aggression, guarding, and obsessive behaviors. I also work with puppies and adolescents to improve communication and default manners. All of our dogs are attentive and responsive, and love working with their people!

I work with you in private one-on-one sessions either in your home or out and about. I also hold weekly reactive dog classes, and "puppies in the park" seasonally.

For a truly enjoyable and collaborative approach to dog training and life with dogs, call me! Nothing ever felt so fun, easy and natural once you "get it"!

Behavioral issue focus: People frequently call me about resource guarding--dogs that may bite in the home due to conflict over bones, food, or other stuff they value (tissue papers, anyone?).

Another common issue is "stranger danger" or a dog that guards their person. Does your dog bark, growl, snap or even bite strangers? Yep--we can fix that!

Does your dog pull on leash, see other dogs and go crazy lunging and barking and being a total embarrassment? Yep--we got you there too!

Does your dog ignore you? not listen or even run away? This is one of my favorite things to work with--we got you covered!

Some of the more rare but serious issues I deal with are dog-fights in the family (dog-dog aggression in home), human directed aggression in home, and obsessive compulsive type disorders--dogs that eat everything and are a danger to themselves, dogs that spin, or cry obsessively over their ball, shadow chase, bang their heads, or flank suck.

Whatever your issue, I approach it as a serious issue for you, and we work to solve it. Your issue is our passion.

Training methods: I approach each dog and each consult as an individual. We start by doing a full intake evaluation, with a in-depth online questionnaire to understand more about you, your desires, and your dogs history, lifestyle, health, and food.

With specific goals in mind, we develop a training plan.

Our training plans are unique to you and your dog, but generally include addressing underlying health and lifestyle issues, and then an set of exercises and games which increase in difficulty as your dog (and you!) make progress and reach milestones.

My training is force and coercion free. We build resilience and tolerance through repeated successful experiences. As you and your dog get better, you can expect to move from treat-based training to life and relationship-based rewards.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer because I saw so many dogs being surrendered to shelters because they had a broken relationship with their people. I did rescue, spay/neuter and transport for years, and it just wasn't fixing the surrender problem. So I did something.

I started the online dog training community--"Dog Training 101 community" on facebook. And I stayed up late at night, weekends and all day every day I could spare helping people. If I didn't know he answer to their problem, I found one. And then I went out and tried those solutions on my dogs, family dogs, and rescue/shelter dogs. I did a deep dive into the literature on all kinds of training. And I am convinced, through my own highly successful client base plus that of thousands of members on our free facebook group, that we can turn your relationship around... or if there is nothing wrong with your relationship with your dog, we can make it even better.

My passion is making dogs, and their people, happy.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love seeing people and their dogs succeed. I love it when I see a happy relationship blossom.

My #1 dog training tip: Listen to your dog. Meet his needs before he needs to "yell". Get out there and do some sniffy walks on a long line!

Service areas: Albany and surrounding area (Lebanon, Scio, Lacomb, Sweet Home, Corvallis)

Website: https://katesdogs.com/

Melody Sunflower

Former veterinary technician, been training dogs and work in veterinary medicine for 18 years. I'm passionate about helping people find balance and joy with their dogs.

Certifications: Fear Free Certified

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Private Training, positive reinforcement training, loose leash walking, behavior, reactivity, basic obedience

Behavioral issue focus: Fear, anxiety, reactivity, potty training, jumping, leash walking

Training methods: All positive reinforcement based. No prong collars or shock collars ever.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help save dogs from being relinquished due to behavior.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The relationships I have created with my clients and their dogs.

My #1 dog training tip: Make sure your body language matches your words. Be a good leader for your dog. Clear and consistent expectations.

Service areas: Glastonbury and surrounding areas

Website: https://heelandhounddogtraining.com

Viviane Arzoumanian

Vivane has been training dogs and conducting behavior consultations since 2005. She is her clients' guide in all things having to do with dogs, whether they are animal professionals or family guardians. Viviane is a networker and values collaborating with other animal professionals in order to best serve her clients and colleagues. If she doesn't have a resource someone needs, she will use her ever expanding
network to find it for them.

Coaching humans has always been Viviane's passion. In recent years she has increased her focus on the human side of dog training and behavior. If the human's don't change their behavior then dogs can't either.

Viviane offers coaching and guidance in an atmosphere of compassion and
safety. Her clients include both pet guardians and a range of dog
professionals needing resources or a sounding board for finding new or
tried and true ideas for puzzling out difficult cases. She is available for
a full range of conversations including case review, referrals to other
professionals, and discussion of quality of life for humans and canines
living together. This includes consideration of humane euthanasia due to
age, illness or behavioral concerns.

Viviane sees dogs and their families for the full range of needs from
puppyhood to old age on a case by case basis.

She has been educated by well respected professionals in her field and by
thousands of clients and their dogs, and she learns something new every day!

Certifications:

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, CPDT-KA, Certified Behavior Adjustment
Training Instructor, Pat Miller Certified Trainer - 2, Licensed Family Dog
Mediator in Behavior and Training

Services include:

- Aggressive dog training
- In home training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
- Puppy training
- Free Ask The Trainer Zoom session - offered weekly

More info about service provided: Virtual group classes for puppies and
adolescent dogs, scent work classes, private training for the full range of
dog issues including separation anxiety and reactivity, babies and dogs
living together and counseling for difficult decisions.

Behavioral issue focus: Fear, sound sensitivity, separation anxiety, babies
and dogs, aggression toward people and dogs.

Training methods: All training is based on force free, positive
reinforcement principles, understanding what motivates the dog, and the
interplay between genetics and environment in solving behavior problems.
Viviane works with clients virtually and in person. She offers behavior
consultations, comprehensive training plans, and hands-on work with dogs.

Why she became a dog trainer: Viviane's first dog as an adult needed some
special training help and she got hooked on training. She then studied with
many well respected trainers to gain the knowledge and skills she needed to
serve her clients.

Favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping improve the relationship
between humans and their canine companions.

#1 dog training tip: Dogs are learning every second of the day. Training
and relationship building should be incorporated into all the activities of
daily life, and it's so much easier than it sounds!

Service areas: We offer virtual services in order to serve the entire
United States and beyond.

Website: https://pumpkinpups.com

Becky Maurice

Becky graduated from Uconn with a bachelor's in animal science. She is a certified pet dog trainer, A certified behavior consultant and a graduate of The Instructor training course. As a Canine Good Citizen evaluator as well as a C.L.A.S.S instructor and evaluator she approaches training classes in a fun and motivating way.

She has been training dogs professionally for over ten years. She has studied and trained under the leading behaviorists and trainers such as Pia Silvani (Director of ASPCA and leading behaviorist), Michael Shikashio (President of IAABC and owner of Complete Canines), and Sue Sternberg (Expert behaviorist and creator of Dog Wizard Seminars). In addition, she is also one of only 2 certified Fear Free Trainers in the entire state of Connecticut. As well as a Family Paws Presenter/Trainer (The only PACC certified operator in New England) This business was started to provide affordable training to everyone so that she is able to help more dogs and their people.

It is the mission of All Bright Canines to bring relationship building training to as many people and dogs as possible. Everyone should enjoy a well-behaved dog and every dog should know what it is like to have a relationship with humans without violence. She believes that what sets All Bright Canines apart, is how educated her staff is. All staff are certified in pet first aid and disaster response.

All Bright Canines is the only daycare and training facility in southeastern CT that has four certified dog trainers on working with our daycare dogs. She believes that anyone that is watching over dogs in a social setting should be educated in dog behavior and be skilled at reading their body language, her staff regularly attends seminars and clinics from the leading trainers and behaviorists in the field of dog behavior and training.

Becky is also the founder and director of Paws In the Classroom which is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the community and their dogs through education on dog behavior and communication. Paws also provides shelter and rescue support as well as an outreach program to the senior citizens in our community to help them better care for their pets.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Obedience training, Daycare, Grooming

Service areas: Oakdale, CT

Website: https://www.allbrightcanines.com/

Sandra Leiser

From the time I was a child, I was drawn to animals - especially dogs. In my work and home life, I have always been interested in and had a keen eye for animal behavior. For 14 years I worked as a veterinary assistant and technician, but I left clinic work to focus more on what I love best: dog behavior.

In 2021, I graduated from the Karen Pryor Dog Trainer Professional Program. As a Certified Training Partner with the Karen Pryor Academy, my education is based in positive reinforcement training, using clicker training techniques. This approach to learning is kind, fast, effective, and lasting. I love working with puppies and have gained extensive experience with and knowledge surrounding young, developing dogs.

Certifications: KPA-CTP

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Private training lessons, day training, and house calls. Gain peace of mind that your puppy's crucial
socialization with dogs and people will be guided

Learn how to make working from home or outings
with your dog feel relaxed and enjoyable.
Relieve your stress about
by a compassionate professional.

Relieve your stress about visits to the vet and groomer,
knowing that your dog can be

Behavioral issue focus: Appropriate and comprehensive socialization; meeting exercise needs; leash walking; dog-dog behavior; self-control

Training methods: I am a positive reinforcement trainer. I am a firm believer in clicker training and use it where appropriate with my clients in my teaching. I use food reinforcement in training. I start all training with the conviction that setting the environment for each individual dog/handler team is at the root of making the dog comfortable, happy and motivated to learn. I train to the skills that the dog is capable of, and match it to the client's needs.

Why I became a dog trainer: For the love of dogs! A bond with a dog can be as an important relationship in ones life as any other. I wanted to help people achieve that bond in the kindest way possible. People can do more in the world with their dogs if they are trained.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I get to see dog/handler teams have breakthrough moments, when the dog is able to do something or behave in a way that their person didn't think was possible. It is active, fun and creative work that I love!

My #1 dog training tip: Your dog needs consistent messaging from you, and needs to know what to expect.

Service areas: Northampton, MA

Website: https://www.rightvibedogtraining.com

Michele Monteiro

I is a CPDT certified dog trainer. I received my CPDT certificate in Obedience Training and Behavior Consultation. I began in the corporate world straight out of college but a couple years later realized my true calling was to work with animals. I took the leap and was paired with an amazing mentor and began my journey in dog training. I was certified within a year and never looked back.

Certifications:

CPDT
Pet Nutrition
Pet Therapy
Good Canine Citizen Evaluator

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: In home private training covering everything from basic puppy commands to Advanced obedience including off leash training, reactivity training and impulse control. I also teach group classes covering Basic Obedience, Advanced Obedience, Impulse & Reactivity, Tricks & Agility.

Behavioral issue focus: I commonly work with puppies and see their training through adulthood. I also work very often with reactive dogs & impulse control behaviors.

Training methods: My training plans are positive reinforcement and are always laid out very clear and concise for my clients to see and follow.

Why I became a dog trainer: I always knew my true calling was to work with animals, but that I needed to be as engaged with them as possible and training was the best option to do that. I love learning about dog behaviors and how to help them through an issues they are experiencing. Its truly amazing to meet a dog with behavioral issues and be able to help them and their owner get through those issues and come out so amazing on the other side.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part is getting to know the dog and build trust with them for them to understand I am there to help them have a more positive life.

My #1 dog training tip: Have patience and positivity while training your dog.

Service areas: Westchester County, Putnam County, Fairfield County

Website: https://www.pawsfurlovellc.com

Sniffspot Connecticut Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Connecticut dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Connecticut 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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut?

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 Connecticut 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 Connecticut cost?

Connecticut 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 Connecticut dog trainer. How can I get listed here?

As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Connecticut 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 Connecticut?

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 Connecticut was $31,563 per year and $15.17 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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