The Best Dog Trainers in Allentown, PA of 2023

Welcome to the Allentown, PA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Allentown 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 Pennsylvania 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.

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The Best Allentown, PA Dog Trainers in 2023

Kelly Armour

Kelly has over 25 years of experience working with a variety of breeds and behavior issues, and specializes in working with Pitbulls and Bully Breeds. Kelly is known for her ability to accurately assess, treat, and resolve dog behavior issues using force-free and positive training methods. Her success in helping dog owners has grown out of many years of dedicated shelter and rescue work.

Kelly gained unique knowledge and hands-on training skills working at the Montgomery SPCA where she worked with a variety of dogs of different sizes, breeds, ages, and personalities. Kelly has extensive experience working with puppies, adolescent teenagers, and dogs that were rescued from abusive and illegal situations. She earned her Certificate in Training and Counseling (CTC) from Jean Donaldson's The Academy for Dog Trainers.

Certifications: CTC, The Academy for Dog Trainers

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Canine positive, reward-based training and applied behavior analysis.

Behavioral issue focus: I work with everything from basic puppy training to complex fear and aggression behavior modification.

Training methods: Every client begins with a comprehensive, 2 hour evaluation and intensive training session to understand why behaviors are occurring and to find the best path forward for the holistic well being of the dog and to meet the individual goals of the dog guardian.

Why I became a dog trainer: Dogs are an integral part of our lives and families. With a specialty in fear and aggression, I became a dog trainer to help people navigate the complicated waters of 'what happens when we didn't get the dog we expected.' My goal is to find the virtue in every dog and bring out the very best in the dog to dog-guardian experience.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I love helping dogs and people bring out the best in each other.

My #1 dog training tip: Patience and repetition. You'll meet all of your goals with these two ingredients. Great behavior takes time and commitment.

Service areas: Reading, Allentown, West Chester, Berks, Harrisburg, Carlisle, Chester, Montgomery, Lehigh, Schuylkill, Lebabon

Website: https://www.thevirtuousdog.com/

Sarah Woodruff

I have been training and competing in the sport of Nose Work for over 10 years. I am a certified nose work instructor, certifying official, judge and trial host with the National Association of Canine Scent Work.
I am also an AKC CGC and tricks evaluator.

Certifications: Certified Nose Work Instructor, AKC CGC & Tricks Evaluator

Services include:

• Puppy training

More info about service provided: K9 Nose Work Classes, basic obedience and puppy training

Behavioral issue focus: Leash pulling, crate training, mild dog reactivity, confidence building for shy/fearful dogs

Training methods:

Majority of my time is spent training the sport of K9 Nose Work using positive reinforcement. This is a game all about letting the dogs be rewarded for using their nose. Through these classes students also have the opportunity to work a variety of basic life skills like crate training, impulse control, loose leash walking, engagement with the handler, exposure to new environments, etc.
We work at a training facility and also take our training to offsite locations to expose the dogs to a wide variety of environments and distractions.
Nose work is a great sport to help dogs burn off some energy and engage the brain. It is a great way to build confidence in any and reactive dogs.

Why I became a dog trainer:

I dabbled in several activities with my first rescue dog Angie and she told me that using her nose was her most favorite. I attended nose work camp in 2011 and afterwards started a practice group with my friends. I enrolled in the instructor program after camp and I have been teaching all levels of classes for over 10 years.
I love helping others find a fun activity to play with their dog, strengthen their understanding of how dogs learn and communicate, and most importantly building that human-canine bond.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Getting to be a part of each teams journey, witnessing first hand their progression and growth as a team.

My #1 dog training tip: Have fun! Humans and dogs both learn better when they are enjoying the training process.

Service areas: Easton, Bethlehem, Allentown, Stroudsburg,

Website: https://www.pawsnsniff.com

Fran Dickenshied Kramer

I am passionate about inspiring others to have a better relationship with their pets.

Animal behavior, especially canine as well as feline, has always interested me. It's why I became not just an obedience trainer years ago but dove into the behavior aspect with both feet, especially when I learned about positive motivational training.

From then on, I never looked back to the 'old' ways, and that's been over 23 years. Before then, I was a correction/reward trainer with 19 years of hands-on veterinary experience working side-by-side with a large number of veterinarians (especially those interested in behavior) with all kinds of dogs and cats, particularly those with attitudes. It was those attitudes that really got my attention.

Certifications: CPDT-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I primarily do behavioral training and address those behavioral problems that people get stumped on, whether it's something as simple as puppy training difficulties or trying to eat the mailman for lunch. Distraction issues are common as are anxieties and shyness.

Behavioral issue focus: Each dog and family is different and is addressed accordingly with common sense and positive behavioral motivation and understanding.

Training methods: All training is done in a purely positive motivational approach. There is never any counter, "old fashioned" training. It's more about working with the dog's neuro science to reshape behaviors.

Why I became a dog trainer: I love animals, particularly dogs and cats, and have since childhood. Dog training has always interested, and it's about creating a positive team with the dog's family as well. It's important that they work as team.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: The rewards of turning "bad" or undesirable behaviors around to more calm, focused and pleasant behaviors have always given me great satisfaction. That means I'll see fewer dogs being surrendered to shelters. It means I'm doing my part to rescue a dog from losing its home.

My #1 dog training tip: Always tell your dog it's doing things right when it's doing just that. Never scold.

Service areas: The counties of Monroe, Pike, Northampton, and Lehigh

Website: https://www.commonsensepetservices.com

Grace Heck

Grace is the owner and founder of Hounds of Heck. She started in Agility with her Mixed Breed dog Riley, and now competes with 3 Border Collies (Finnick, Rue, and Ember). Grace's loves getting the opportunity to travel the world and compete with her dogs! Grace and Finnick are the 2022 UKI US Open Masters Series National Champions, and were selected as Alternates for the 2022 WAO Team USA.

Certifications: 2022 UKI Master's Series National Champion, WAO Team USA 2022 Alternate

Services include:

• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Good Dog Skills classes (manners, CGC, AKC Star Puppy), Competition Obedience classes, Rally classes, Agility classes, Disc Dog classes, private training in Manners Agility Rally Obedience and Disc, Sport specific seminars, Trials and Events

Behavioral issue focus: We do not perform behavioral training

Training methods: Positive reinforcement based methods. Clients can join one of our group classes or book a private consultation.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer to share my analytical coaching style with fellow agility enthusiasts.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching teams grow and master new skills.

My #1 dog training tip: Engagement is the key to success.

Service areas: The Hounds of Heck facility is located in Stockton, NJ. All classes, privates, seminars, and events are held at this location.

Website: https://www.houndsofheck.com

Laurie Lyons-Bowen

I have been involved with training dogs for over 40 years. I currently have 5 Border Collie. All have obedience titles and agility titles. I love working with dogs and helping their owners achieve their goals

Certifications: AKC EVALUATOR..CGC TRICKS..FIT DOG..AKC ACT JUDGE

Services include:

• Board and train
• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Agility instructor for both fun and competition. Obedience training for Ralky..and CD

Behavioral issue focus: Lack of socialization and structure. Pulling on leash and lunging at digs and people

Training methods: Positive reinforcement positive motivation. Each dog is different. I evaluate then set a plan of action

Why I became a dog trainer: When I got my first golden..so 12years old

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing the dogs understand what is being asked of them

My #1 dog training tip: Focus..get your dog to focus on you

Service areas: Monore county..Lehigh valkey..East Stroudsburg Stroudsburg..easton..flanders

Website: https://letsspeakdog.com

Kailly Muthard

I have been a dog trainer since 2016, after completing a 2 year apprenticeship and the Karen Pryor Academy certification program.

Certifications: KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: In home training, private lessons, basic obedience, day training, puppy training, behavior modification

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, Leash Reactivity, Dog dog aggression, dog human aggression

Training methods: Positive reinforcement clicker training, behavior consultations

Why I became a dog trainer: I have a reactive dog myself and struggled to learn how to train and manage him. Through that experience I became passionate about helping other people with their dogs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching dogs learn

My #1 dog training tip: Consistency!

Service areas: Lehigh Valley (Lehigh and Northampton Counties)

Website: https://educaninetrainingservices.com

Shauntay Shadrach

I grew up on a small farmette in Maryland, where I fell in love with animals! At 14 years of age, I started volunteering at my local Ambulance Hall, which kicked off my nursing career. I obtained my EMT-B, EMT-I, CNA, and GNA by the age of 18 through my local Technical High School. After high school, I went to College for Health Administration and Practical Nursing. I received my Practical Nursing, Home Health Care, and Pharmacy Technician certifications as I worked in various hospitals, nursing homes, pharmacy's and performed in-home patient care.

In my late 20's, I volunteered and worked at two Veterinarian's offices. At the age of 32 and after 17 years in the medical field, I decided to change careers. I opened my own in-home Daycare business. I successfully managed that for 5 years while I studied to become a professional dog trainer. It was the best decision of my life!

Certifications: PMCT, Fear-Free, KPA, VSA, APDT, PPG

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Force-Free, Fear-Free basic manners and behavior modification services, socialization, puppy training

Behavioral issue focus: Under socialized, guarding, handling, leash work, counter conditioning to people, animals and places.

Training methods: Phone consults, behavioral modification plans, protocols, and private in-home training - All force-free, fear-free, and non-aversive.

Why I became a dog trainer: I love animals and dogs are my favorite besides dolphins ;^)! I want to help humans and dogs co-exist on a more enjoyable level without fear and pain being involved!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching dog owners have 'ah-ha' moments with their beloved pets-opens lines of communication for the human and canines to understand one another better.

My #1 dog training tip: Reward the behaviors you want to see more of!

Service areas: Jersey Shore, Lock Haven, Avis, Williamsport, Mill Hall, PA

Website: https://www.yourpawsandme.com

Marion O'Neil

Marion has an impressive career in dog training & has been helping dogs & their people live harmoniously since 2012. Certified through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, Marion is a graduate of the Animal Behavior College of Valencia, CA Dog Obedience Instructor Training Program (ABCDT). She is also a Certified Trick Dog Instructor & Canine Good Citizen Evaluator through the American Kennel Club, as well as an Instructor & Evaluator for Do More With Your Dog.

When she isn't training dogs, she is assisting her dog Mizz Ziva as a Certified Therapy dog & contributing regularly to local publications such as Buck's County Time Herald, Upper Bucks Free Press, & Town & Country. Additionally, Marion also mentor's new Dog Training students of Animal Behavior College & CATCH Canine Trainers Academy.

Marion's number one goal in her work is to reduce the number of dogs surrendered due to common (addressable) behavior issues. While it's a tall order to fill, Marion believes through the use of force-free training methods & teaching dog owners how to raise an emotionally healthy family dog, she can accomplish her goal.

Marion's Associations:

Pet Professional Guild: Charter Member, PPG is an association of industry professionals who are committed to force-free training & pet care philosophies.

Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers: Certified as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (Knowledge Assessed)

A.K.C.: Marion is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor & Evaluator, as well as an Canine Good Citizenship Evaluator.

Do More with Your Dog: The official sanctioning and organizing body for the sport of Dog Tricks.

C.L.A.S.S: One of the first 100 trainers in the U.S. to become certified by the APDT as an Evaluator for C.L.A.S.S. (Canine Life and Social Skills)

Dog Gone Safe: A licensed presenter for the Be a Tree Program a non-profit organization dedicated to bite prevention through education. A fun & interactive presentation for children & parents to learn about dog body language.

Certifications: CPDT-KA , CTDI

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Mobil In-Home Private Training, On-Site Private Training, Free Yappy Hour (pups under 5 months), Group Classes: AKC Puppy Gold S. T. A. R., Puppy I & II Manners, Teen Rover & Adult (new rescue) Manners, Focus With Distractions & Advanced Focus With Distractions, AKC CGC, Rocket Recall Workshop, Novice & Advanced Trick Class. Private Dog Park

Behavioral issue focus: Jumping, Barking, Digging, Stealing, Impulse Control

Training methods: We use modern scientific training methods. No fear, pain or force is ever used. We offer 90 minute behavioral consultations, in-home or on-site. We have training package deals.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help families stop rehoming their dogs because of common behavior problems.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: When the human gets it!

My #1 dog training tip: Dogs do things because they're get something out of it. In order to change a behavior, you have to change what is reinforcing the behavior.

Service areas: Upper Bucks, Southern Lehigh & Montgomery counties

Website: https://www.MolassesCreekDogTraining.com

Sniffspot Allentown Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Allentown dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Allentown 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 Allentown 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 Allentown?

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 Allentown 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 Allentown cost?

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

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

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 Pennsylvania was $30,779 per year and $14.80 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 Pennsylvania Cities

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

Harrisburg, PA
Lancaster, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Reading, PA
Scranton, PA

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near Pennsylvania

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

Maryland
New Jersey
New York
Ohio

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