The Best Dog Trainers in Eugene, OR of 2023

Welcome to the Eugene, OR Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Eugene 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 Oregon 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 Eugene, OR Dog Trainers in 2023

Roman Gottfried

I'm a certified dog trainer and trauma-informed holistic behavior consultant. I guide dog guardians, fosters and dog professionals to solve even the most complex challenges. I use a mind body spirit approach, as well as holistic-, trauma-informed, secure attachment-based, and the Do-No-Harm approach to get results.

I am a firm believer in educating dog professionals, handlers, caregivers, and the public about positive training and the damaging effects that the use of aversion and outdated dominance theory can have on dogs, especially dogs with trauma.

What Is Holistic Dog Training
Holistic Dog Training is a trauma-informed, secure attachment-based, behavior consultant, i follow a Holistic, Do-No-Harm Training and Animal Care Philosophy.
I believe that dogs are sentient beings that deserve to be treated with respect, should be allowed to express their emotions, live in a healthy, stress free, species appropriete environment. They should be allowed to become full members of our family, that ensures that the dogs hierarchy of needs are met, and creating and maintaining a positive human/dog relationship naturally, for life.

Holistic parenting and training approach addresses all of these elements so they can exist in harmonyI'm a certified dog trainer and trauma-informed holistic behavior consultant. I guide dog guardians, fosters, and professionals to solve even the most complex challenges. I use a mind-body-spirit approach, as well as a holistic-, trauma-informed, secure attachment-based, and Do-No-Harm approach to get results. I am a firm believer in educating dog professionals, handlers, caregivers, and the public about positive training and the damaging effects that the use of aversion and outdated dominance theory can have on dogs, especially dogs with trauma.

Certifications: Certified dog trainer, Holistic behavior consultant, Reiki master teacher

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Trauma informed behavior assessment, separation anxiety, holistic training, attachment problems, siblings rivalry, do No harm

Behavioral issue focus: Commonly working with families with reactive and aggressive dogs, dogs with developmental problems, anxiety and phobias

Training methods: I'm working with Families to learn how to educate and help the dogs establish a secure attachment, identify trauma, and communication, challenges, and better understand the dogs breed traits and individual personality. After the assessment, I put together a behavior treatment plan based on the dogs needs and the family's abilities.

Why I became a dog trainer: It was always my passion to help dogs feel safe and cared for in homes. I also have a passion to help dogs with no family to find one, help them with their behavior problems and heal trauma

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Being able to manage my time, working with clients, working with people and dogs, living a healthy lifestyle and helping dogs

My #1 dog training tip: My number one training tip is not a training tip, before you train your dog, establish a secure attachment relationship

Service areas: USA, England, Australia, New Zealand, Canada

Website: https://holisticdogtraining.org

Connie DeBusschere

I've worked with dogs for over 40 years. I started out in 4H has a kid, then an assistant 4H leader and assistant trainer as a young adult, then I got into competition and dog clubs.

I was the co-founder for the Cascade K9 Jamboree, which was an event to raise money for the local K9 officers. I worked with the local library bringing in the R.E.A.D. (Reading, Education, Assistance, Dog) program, where
kids with ready or social problems read to dog.

I'm also a breeder and advocate for the English Shepherd breed and host annual events.

Certifications:

Oregon State University Department of Animal Science Canine Behavior
AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator, Trick Dog Tester, Farm Dog Judge. Therapy Dog Handler

Services include:

• Reactive dog training
• Off leash training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: At Canine Training Adventures we strive to provide the best training solutions while building everlasting relationships. We do this with our innovative class curriculums designed for real life results, force free, scientifically proven methods. We offer Puppy Preschool, Manners & More, Canine Good Citizen, Nose Work, Behavior Consultations, Private Lesson, Workshops, NASDA Practice & Trials

Behavioral issue focus: We work with puppy owners on biting, jumping, barking, house training, chewing, socialization, crate training and more. For the adolescent we help with manners, impulse control, calm around dogs and people, settle on a mat, polite greetings, leash walking, attention, come when called, focus and more. Behavior plans help with fearful dogs, over excited, anxious or reactive.

Training methods: We like to work "with" the dog instead of dominating them. The best results come from clear communication, positive reinforcement, force free, reward base, scientifically proven methods. We also like to make training fun and rewarding for both dog and owner.

Why I became a dog trainer: Because of the wonderful adventures I've had with my dogs. I want to help others have similar or better ones.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching the owners and their dogs having fun together training. Seeing their relationship and communication grow.

My #1 dog training tip: Give the dog a chance to respond after giving them a cue to do something.

Service areas: Sweet Home, Lebanon, Brownsville, Albany, Linn County

Website: https://caninetrainingadventures.com/

Kaia Wilson

I am a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)(FDM Family Dog Mediator) who has been working with dogs professionally since 2013. I have high hopes for changing the way people see and understand our (captive) canine comrades!

My mission as a dog trainer is to provide human dog guardians with a clear understanding of how dogs learn, techniques and protocols for affecting behavior using fun, compassion-centered methods, and to support the dog and the human side of the relationship while we go on this journey together.

When I'm not training dogs, I'm playing music with my band of the last 30 years, cooking with lots of spices, playing ping pong, and co-dog-pendently making sure my own dogs lives are as fulfilling as can be.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, FDM

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: I focus on finding ways to achieve household harmony between canines and humans that meet everyones needs; I prescribe a combination of training (aka humans teaching dogs cool skills) and various enrichment and management additions to help achieve that.

Behavioral issue focus: I love working with sensitive/fearful dogs and building confidence and a sense of security. I'm often working with leash reactivity, neophobia, separation distress and more.

Training methods: I utilize positive reinforcement, force and fear free training methods. I build out step by step processes for the guardian to work on with their dogs, supporting the human side of the equation with open lines of communication, progress reports, and various forms of supplemental learning aids.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer because I love dogs and I wanted to help improve the quality of their lives in our human households.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is improving quality of life for humans and their dogs, dogs and their humans!

My #1 dog training tip: ENRICHMENT, find out what enriches and nourishes your dog and provide them opportunities for those things, and your training/behavior modification goals will be so much easier to achieve.

Service areas: I primarily serve Portland, Oregon, with brief stints in Los Angeles and Eugene

Website: https://dogspeed.dog

Tera Dschaak -James

I was born and raised in Eugene, Oregon. I am co-owner at Training Spot and am grateful to offer humane training to my community. My passion is teaching humans and dogs to communicate with each other to make training easy and fun for everyone. My mission is educate as many people as I can on science based training methods and help create a better life for dogs and their humans.

Certifications: KPA-CTP, ABC, Puppy Start Right, CPDT-KA, Family Dog Mediator

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: I provide dog training for all ages and breeds of dogs, with a specialty in Puppy and Teenage Puppy training. Some of my offerings are group classes, private lessons and in home training session.

Behavioral issue focus: I also work with fearful and reactive dogs to help them gain confidence and feel more comfortable in their environment and home.

Training methods: I works closely with each pet parent and their dog to customize a training specific to their needs and training goals.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a trainer because I adopted a reactive/aggressive teenage puppy that was able to learn to trust and thrive in her environment through positive training.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: All of the wonderful & kind people I get to work with and their amazing dogs!

My #1 dog training tip: Find out your dog's most favorite reinforcers!

Service areas: All of Lane County

Website: https://www.trainingspot.us

Marissa Oday

I have always found friendship and comfort in dogs. After the adoption of my cattle dog, Kibeth, with an extremely high prey drive and reactivity concerns I knew I needed help. Seeing the impact of positive training for Kibeth, I pivoted to a dog training career as a Karen Pryor Academy graduate and Certified Training Partner. I am dedicated to helping clients improve connections with their dogs while wading through societal pressures often felt around having a dog with behavior problems.

Certifications: KPA-CTP

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Obedience training, training classes, private training sessions, basic commands, reactivity training, behavior modification training

Behavioral issue focus: Dog to dog reactivity, dog to people reactivity, barrier frustration, resource guarding, body handling sensitivity

Training methods: Behavior consultations, training plans

Why I became a dog trainer: Mar-22

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people build better relationships with their dogs

My #1 dog training tip: Always keep it fun!

Service areas: Eugene City

Website: https://trainingspot.us

Jennifer Biglan

From an early age, Jen's love of animals was apparent. Her affection and respect for all things furry was sparked by her grandparents, and summers spent riding and caring for horses in Arizona. After completing her bachelor's degree from the University of Oregon in 2001, she packed up for San Diego to start work in the basement of an office building with notions of adulthood looming.

The unrewarding grind of office life quickly initiated a quest to add meaning to her days. When a local animal shelter was looking for volunteers, her decision to offer her time revived her love of animals along with wanting to improve the lives of shelter animals. A volunteer position turned into a lifelong passion for learning and training animals. Her natural affinity with people and animals led Jen to pursue her professional training certification in positive reinforcement with the Karen Pryor Academy.

In 2006, Jen moved back to Oregon and started Dog & Cat, LLC where her services included dog walking, private training, group classes, and behavior work. In 2016, Jen joined forces with a business partner and together they founded Training Spot and opened a 4,000 sq ft facility dedicated to community education, positive training, and a focus on improving the human-animal relationship. We currently run over 35 classes a week, have a training team of 7 trainers (and growing) an amazing office duo, and offer group classes, private lessons, behavior consultations, and day training.

As a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant and Karen Pryor Certified Training Partner, Jen's natural talent for understanding, addressing, and alleviating fearful and aggressive tendencies in dogs has earned her the respect of local veterinarians and the community.

Certifications: KPA CTP, Licensed FDM, CDBC, CPDT

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: group classes, private lessons, behavior consultation, puppy training, day training

Behavioral issue focus: Leash reactivity, shy dogs, under-socialization, confidence building, multi-dog households, fear reactivity

Training methods: I follow the principles of LIMA when working with both clients and dogs to find solutions that help families understand their dog's needs and motivation. Always strive to use science-based, force-free methods that are easy to implement.

Why I became a dog trainer: To help dogs and people live happier, more connected lives together.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping people connect with and communicate with their dogs. Every time I watch a pet parent learn how to read their dog's body language, understand their dog's physical and emotional needs, or just enjoy life together more...I smile.

My #1 dog training tip: Your dog will give you the answers if you learn how to pay attention to what they are trying to tell you. Instead of seeing behavior problems, see solutions. Your dog is digging in the garden...great, it sounds like your dog LOVES to dig. Where can we teach them to dig so they can have fun and expend energy?

Service areas: Eugene/Springfield

Website: https://trainingspot.us/

Dorothy "Dodie" Slaton

Helping our pets live their best lives is a common goal among pet guardians, but at times, it can be complicated. As a Licensed L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator and a Certified Professional Trainer, I help guardians understand their pet's needs and behaviors and help open the lines of communication between people and their pets.

As a Family Dog Mediator, I assess your pet's learning history, environment, genetics, and individual self to determine how we can assist you and your pet on your life journey together. Many behaviors that may be problematic in the home are generally natural behaviors expressing themselves. Therefore, by finding less problematic methods to allow your pet to express themself and utilizing enrichment and decompression, we can reduce problematic behaviors.

As a certified trainer, I will help you understand your pet's behaviors and determine how to better manage or change the behaviors that are causing problems in the home. Together, we will evaluate the behaviors and find more suitable behaviors that are compatible with the environment.Together, we will formulate an achievable plan that fits your and your pet's needs, and with the ongoing support program, part of my mediation/training packages, you can check in, send videos for evaluation, and communicate any difficulties or successes as they occur.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, Licensed L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator

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 provide individualized support to meet your and your pet's needs including basic obedience training, puppy socialization, cooperative care training, day training, potty training, distraction training, counter conditioning/desensitization for fearful/reactive behaviors, off-leash manners for hiking, decompression activities, and enrichment activities, etc.

Behavioral issue focus: I specialize in fearful/reactive dogs but also work on preventing these behaviors in dogs and puppies with socialization, general obedience, decompression and enrichment activities, and by properly meeting a dog's individual needs.

Training methods: I offer training packages that are specifically designed to meet your needs. My training packages include email and/or text message coaching support which allows you to ask questions as they arise, send videos for evaluation, discuss challenging situations, check in about your progress, and get the accountability you may need during your training journey. I strive to make the process as comfortable for my clients and their pet(s) as possible.

Why I became a dog trainer: I did an internship in a shelter and saw so many pets surrendered for behavior problems. I seek to keep pets in homes.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Making people and their dogs happier.

My #1 dog training tip: Meeting your pets' intrinsic needs makes training easier and more effective.

Service areas: Corvallis, Salem, Eugene, and surrounding areas

Website: https://simplypawesomepets.com

Stacey Lambert

I'm a dog mom of three, one of which struggles with many anxieties and one of which is dog & stranger reactive. My passion is helping pet parents understand their dogs on a deeper level, strengthening the human-canine bond.

Certifications: KPA-CTP & fear free

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Daycare, puppy socialization, day training, leash training, activity training, training while lodging, in-home training, virtual training, foundational skills, reactivity training

Behavioral issue focus: Most common behavior issues I work with are reactivity (toward other dogs or people) and leash skills

Training methods: Initial intake form and phone consultation required; training plan is customizable for each pet parent/dog. All training moves at the dog's pace and is with the use of force free, positive reinforcement methods.

Why I became a dog trainer: I used to foster a stranger-aggressive dog with a bite history. I didn't have support from the rescue I was fostering through and felt very lost on how to help him. I know so many pet parents feel lost/defeated/overwhelmed & this inspired me to learn more about canine behavior & become a dog trainer. At the end of the day, if I can help any pet parent feel supported and like they understand how to meet their needs/advocate for their dog better, I feel I've accomplished something really important & rewarding.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Being able to see people truly enjoy their time spent with their dogs & watching their relationship grow.

My #1 dog training tip: Train with compassion and understanding; dogs are opportunistic and don't understand the concept of right/wrong. If you're feeling frustrated, step away, take a deep breath and try again!

Service areas: Eugene, Springfield and surrounding areas

Website: https://luckydogcare.com/

Debbie Schaefer

Head Trainer Debbie Schaefer is responsible for the high-quality classes, workshops, and events offered at The Well-Mannered Dog. In addition to running The Well-Mannered Dog, she teaches group and online courses that focus on Companion Dog Skills of Manners, Lifeskills, and Changing emotions. Debbie has competed in competitions obedience and now spends her time participating in the sport of Musical Freestyle.

Certifications:

Certification Council For Professional Dog Trainers
Fear Free Animal Trainer Certified
Absolute Dogs Professional Dog Trainer Program Certified
Absolute Dogs Geek Program Certified

Website: https://humanedogtraining.com/

Sniffspot Eugene Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Eugene dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Eugene 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 Eugene 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 Eugene?

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 Eugene 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 Eugene cost?

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

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

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 Oregon was $29,335 per year and $14.10 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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Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list

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