The Best Dog Trainers in Vermont of 2023

Welcome to the Vermont Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Vermont 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.

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The Best Vermont Dog Trainers in 2023

Sarah Teffner

I began my training journey in 2007 when I adopted a spunky and challenging pup. He introduced me to some amazing trainers who helped me understand him and how to help him...that is where I fell in love with training. Since then I have continued my education to obtain more knowledge and certifications so that I can help others help their dogs by strengthening their relationship and communication with each other.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, FDM, CGC Evaluator, Licensed Family Paws Educator

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Group training classes to develop life skills and private consults for basic training & behavior modification.

Behavioral issue focus: I work with leash reactivity, fearful dogs, impulse control, resource guarding, and aggression issues.

Training methods: I offer private consults to help develop positive training plans for people and their dogs. In the initial evaluation, I will get to know the dog and their family to help them build confidence in working together while strengthening their communication. I provide follow-up emails after the initial consult and all follow-up consults detailing the training plan & exercises to begin working on with their dog.

Why I became a dog trainer: I have always loved dogs. They have been a part of my life since I was a child and I can't remember a time when I did not have a dog at my side. I became a trainer because I wanted to give back to dogs all that they have given to me. I enjoy working with people and helping them really see their & their dog's potential.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love when I see people begin to understand their dogs better and seeing the dogs thrive in their homes.

My #1 dog training tip: Meet your dog where they are at...whether it be the developmental stage they are in or just where they happen to be on that particular day. Enjoy the process and remember it's a journey!

Service areas: Upper Valley Area (Lebanon, NH & surrounding areas in NH & VT)

Website: https://www.paws4trainingnh.com

Emily Lewis

I began my career 22 years ago working in a dog kennel, then moved in to veterinary medicine as a veterinary technician, before becoming a dog trainer and later a dog behavior consultant. I've worked at several local training facilities including Comfort Hill Kennel and Dogs Rock! Vermont. I have 10 years of experience in shelters doing behavior evaluations, dog to dog testing, creating enrichment and training plans, and counseling adopters.

I specialize in a wide variety of behavior issues, including human directed aggression. I love working with pet parents and their dogs to strengthen the human animal bond through positive training. I have extensive experience with rescue dogs and the unique issues they face - and am the proud guardian of three of my own. I have also owned and trained deaf, blind, and physically impaired dogs, and this is an area close to my heart.

Certifications: Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Service dog training

More info about service provided: behavior modification, leash reactivity, service dog training, clicker training, cooperative care, low stress handling, counterconditioning, desensitization, private training, in home training, real world training

Behavioral issue focus: I work with dogs who struggle with significant behavior concerns such as human directed aggression, dog to dog aggression, leash reactivity, resource guarding, separation anxiety and fear based behaviors. I also work with deaf and visually impaired dogs.

Training methods: I meet with each new client for a behavior consultation which includes history taking, evaluation of the problem behavior(s), and providing an assessment and prognosis. This is followed by immediate homework recommendations and a custom training plan. My behavior intervention programs last 2-3 months and include private training sessions, remote coaching and email/text support between sessions. I utilize primarily positive reinforcement and follow the LIMA training model using the least intrusive and aversive plan possible for each dog.

Why I became a dog trainer: Most trainers I know have a dog who influenced their choice in career. My inspiration was Nora, my heart dog. She was a rescue Rottweiler who had reactivity toward all new people. Loving her taught me so much, including the importance of good behavior support. While working in veterinary medicine I saw so many clients who needed that same support with their dogs, and it pushed me to pursue dog training.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is taking a complicated case and breaking it down in to small achievable goals for my clients. Watching them bond and build trust with their dog, while also reducing the unwanted behavior(s), brings me great joy.

My #1 dog training tip: Remember that your dog isn't giving you a hard time, they are having a hard time. When we look at the causes of our dogs behavior, and approach the situation with empathy, we can make the most lasting change.

Service areas: Burlington, South Burlington, Colchester, Essex, Essex Jct, Hinesburg, Shelburne, Bristol, Ferrisburg, New Haven, North Ferrisburg, Middlebury, Monkton , and Vergennes

Website: https://www.vermontdogbehavior.com

Holly Godfrey

Training professionally since 2011, before that volunteered and then ran the canine program at local shelter.

Certifications: KPA-CPT, Family Paws

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Basic manners, day training, classes, puppies, nosework

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, barking, mild aggression toward dogs or humans, resource guarding, leash walking, attentiveness

Why I became a dog trainer: Want to make life better for both dogs and their people by helping them understand each other better. Fascinated by animal behavior and wanted to learn how to help animals live better lives.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing/hearing the relief from dog owners and dogs when the people finally "get it" about how to meet their dogs' needs and the relationship becomes more solid and mutually satisfying.

My #1 dog training tip: Training, like any learning, is never a "one and done." You have to refresh it consistently. Use it or lose it.

Service areas: Chittenden and Franklin counties, VT

Website: https://www.dogshines.com

Laurie Seigh

Certified by the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA-CTP)
Master course work in dog aggression

Certifications: KPA-CTP

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Puppy training, foundation behavior training, behavioral modification, board and train

Behavioral issue focus: Household and leash manners, dog-human aggression, dog-dog aggression

Training methods: Complimentary initial phone consultation, individualized training plans, individualized sessions, all is force-free positive reinforcement

Why I became a dog trainer: To help people understand and train their dogs in a way that deepens the dog/human relationship and makes dogs happy

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Reward value of helping both dogs and their people

My #1 dog training tip: Watch your dog

Service areas: Morrisville, Stowe, Waterbury

Website: https://www.owner@thecaninecooperative.com

Sniffspot Vermont Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Vermont dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Vermont 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 Vermont 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 Vermont?

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 Vermont 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 Vermont cost?

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

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

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 Vermont was $32,844 per year and $15.79 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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