The Best Dog Trainers in Jacksonville, FL of 2023

Welcome to the Jacksonville, FL Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Jacksonville 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 Florida 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 Jacksonville, FL Dog Trainers in 2023

Chrissy Dullano

I am a Victoria Stilwell Academy graduate where I earned my certified training credentials. I am an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. I am certified in pet care health and wellness, and certified in dog and cat first-aid and CPR. I am continuously studying and staying on top of the latest education opportunities.

My passion is trying to make an impact on reducing homeless dogs, shelter dogs, rehoming and returning.

Certifications: VSA-CDT, APDT, PPG, IACP

Services include:

• Aggressive dog training
• Board and train
• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: Day Training, Group Classes, Distraction training, Private Training, Basic Training, Behavioral Modification Training

Behavioral issue focus: reactivity, jumping, pulling, mouthy, barking, counter surfing, door dashing, impulse control, settling skills

Training methods: positive reinforcement dog training, training plans, follow up plans, behavioral consultations, evaluations

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a trainer because I was frustrated with watching people turn in and dismiss their dogs for such fixable problems

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a trainer is watching the owners face light up when they receive their amazing results

My #1 dog training tip: Be consistent

Service areas: Jacksonville, FL

Website: https://allfurpetsjax.com

Maggie Marshall

I have been a professional dog trainer and owner of Maggie Marshall Dog Training since 2009. The highlights of my years include being the Lead Safety Person for the national Strutt Your Mutt event, yearly winner of Jacksonville Magazine's Best of Pets award, I was a featured expert on the local morning news, I am a mentor trainer for Animal Behavior College, and I have completed the Aggression in Dogs Master Course. I hold three certifications and am well known and respected in my community as the go to trainer for the toughest cases.

Certifications: ABCDT, CPDT, CCBC

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I offer in home, private training sessions, group classes indoors and outdoors for any obedience needs and behavior modification. I will handle anything from housetraining to serious bite histories.

Behavioral issue focus: I love to work with puppies when all is new and the future is bright, but I also enjoy the complicated cases involving severe fears and dogs fighting within the home.

Training methods: My training sessions are customized to suit the needs of each dog and owner. After the behavioral history is taken, I prioritize the owner's goals into a time efficient and results based training plan. Each session is booked and paid for individually to keep the power and flexibility in the client's control.

I frequently use a marker and reward system to teach new behaviors and quickly transfer the behaviors to real-life scenarios, so the client can understand how to apply the new behaviors. I advise the client to make changes in their own behaviors to produce different results in the dog. I provide ebooks for the client with written instructions and provide a follow up email summary after each session.

Why I became a dog trainer: My first dog had some challenging behaviors that I was able to overcome. The experience revealed to me that I had an affinity for dog training. Once I knew that, I researched the best routes to become a professional. I was excited to have found a career path that would allow me to feel fulfilled, to do good and to still be available for my family.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Changing behaviors that the client believes are unchangeable.

My #1 dog training tip: Call a professional as soon as you bring your new dog home.

Service areas: ABCDT, CPDT, CCBC

Website: https://maggiedogtraining.com

Menoka Damaren

I am a Animal Behavior College certified dog trainer. My experience volunteering for 10+ years at local shelters and rescues enabled me to hone in my intuition and instincts with animals. Helping animals, particularly dogs have a happy healthy relationships with their owners has been a dream come true. I am the proud mom of one 11 year-old pitbull named Trippie who is unequivocably the love of my life.

Certifications: ABCDT

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Private lessons for manners training, behavior modification, and impulse control training. Lessons can be schedule 7 days a week with a flexible schedule to fit your lifestyle.

Behavioral issue focus: Anxiety, separation anxiety, fear, reactivity in the home, reactivity on walks, hyperactivity, impulse control, multi pack harmony, etc.

Training methods: Positive reinforcement. Lessons can be tailored around my curriculum to fit each dog and owner best. My method is structured yet intuitive.

Why I became a dog trainer: To strengthen the bond between animal and owner.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Working with people and animals one on one and seeing the benefits of my training.

My #1 dog training tip: Make your dog do something for you for everything in life they want.

Service areas: Jacksonville FLORIDA, Florida counties: baker, Nassau, St Johns, And Clay

Website: https://www.menokadogmanners.com/

Savannah LeFors

Hello! I'm Savannah LeFors, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and I have been training dogs since 2015! I was the coordinator of Tallahassee Memorial's Animal Therapy Department and I have been screening, training, evaluating, and managing over 180 therapy animal teams that visited the Big Bend region's healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and schools for over 2 years. I also have experience assessing and training service dogs as part of an internship.

I was raised in Saint Augustine, FL, and after moving away to get my degree in Tallahassee at Florida State, I realized my heart lives here! I am excited and passionate to help the residents of the First Coast bond with their dogs and enjoy everything our amazing coast has to offer! As a child of two Deaf parents, I am fluent in American Sign Language, so I am also thrilled to provide accessibility to dog training for all Deaf people as well!

Although I have learned a lot via reading books, attending seminars, and training clients' dogs,

I have learned the most about dog training from my two dogs! I have an Australian Cattle Dog, Sydney, and a Dalmatian, Bindi. They are both totally Deaf, so we do things a little differently!

I specialize in dog body language and have learned to think outside of the box to work with them, and can apply my knowledge, skills, and research in science-based, positive reinforcement training to help with you and your dog's needs!

Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Fear Free Certified Professional

Services include:

• In home training
• Deaf dog training
• Service dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: I offer in home training for all basic obedience manners and most behavior modification! I have two deaf dogs myself so I do lots of deaf dog training! I also host group classes several times a year for basic and advanced obedience!

Behavioral issue focus: Reactivity, separation anxiety, potty training, wary of strangers, wary of other dogs, deaf dog training, muzzle training, husbandry training and consent for behaviors.

Training methods: I subscribe to positive, force free training. No use of intimidation or fear tactics will be used to train the dogs. Classical and operant conditioning does all the work for us!

Why I became a dog trainer: I was in college and wasn't sure what to do with my life. I made friend with someone who was a dog trainer and I fell in love with the problem solving, teaching, learning, and helping part of it! I found my niche with deaf dogs and absolutely love strengthening the bond between families and their canine partners!

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing families work with their dog to cooperatively have a better life together!

My #1 dog training tip: Reward your dog for the GOOD stuff! Dont focus too much on the bad behaviors!

Service areas: Saint Johns County, Saint Augustine, Palm Coast

Website: https://SavvyDT.com

Samantha Giacalone

Samantha is a certified dog trainer, earning her CPDT-KA desigantion after graduating from CATCH Canine Trainers Academy, where she earned her Certified Dog Trainer title. She is also a graduate of San Juan College's Veterinary Assistant Program & an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. She is actively enrolled in multiple competition sport classes with her dogs and competes in the sport of dog agility with her dog Nellie.

Certifications: CPDT-KA, Fear Free, CCDT

Services include:

• Board and train
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: Puppy board & train, STAR Puppy & CGC classes

Training methods: Client & dog meet & greet, intake questionnaire, training summary & video

Why I became a dog trainer: Having a back ground in veterinary medicine, training was the next logical step in working with dogs and their humans

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching dogs work through the learning process and become successful

My #1 dog training tip: Don't give your dog too much freedom without first teaching them what you want

Service areas: Jacksonville

Website: https://whoanelliepositivecaninetraining.com/

Amanda Lunsford

Amanda grew up in Minnesota and moved to Florida in 2016. Since she was young, she has been passionate about animal behavior. Before opening her business in 2019, she worked in commercial sales and management positions. In 2019 Amanda opened up her business to pursue her lifelong dream of helping humans and dogs live happy lives together. More about her credentials and qualifications are below.

Throughout the years of helping pet dogs and their guardians, Amanda has invested thousands into her education to be able to provide the community options that fit within their resources available. Amanda is an advocate for kind, fair, and clear communication with animals. Animals and humans should work together as a team, as well as constantly learn more about each other.

Certifications: Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA), CPDT-KA, Canine Good Citizen (AKC CGC) Evaluator (S. T. A. R. Puppy and various CGC Community Programs)

Training methods: Amanda relies on science-based training methods to address the reason for the animal's behavior. First, Amanda identifies the stressors that cause the behavior problems, then builds a training plan simple enough for the humans to comfortably incorporate into their daily lives. She believes dog training should be a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Similarly, she does not believe in heavy use of punishment or fear-based training methods.

Website: https://www.rufftoreadydogtraining.com/

Tracee Roberts

I began dog training as a hobby, attending obedience classes and working with private dog trainers in 1999. Later I earned a Canine Good Citizen certificate and a Pet Partners registration with my dog, Maddy, which allowed us to visit at a hospital for four years in animal therapy. I worked as a trainer at a dog daycare in their boarding kennels and trained informally in agility and flyball. I began offering private dog training professionally in 2013. I have built a successful business and earned many happy clients making dog training positive and effective for the whole family!

I have over two thousand hours training dogs and their people! I have worked with many breeds, all ages and all issues including fear and aggression. I am experienced in partnering with Veterinarians and Veterinary Behaviorists when needed to work on behavior modification plans. In my previous corporate career as a Human Resources Manager I gained much experience in training people and draw from that in my dog training. Outside of dog training I spent five years in search and rescue and was also certified as a volunteer firefighter. I have two adopted children and we enjoy going to the beach, reading, movies, studying Spanish as a second language, exploring around Jacksonville and Northeast Florida!

Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer, CPDT-KA ~ Victoria Stilwell Academy Faculty Advisor & Mentor
Fear Free Certified Professional ~ Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, AKC
Best Dog Trainer, Jacksonville Magazine 2017

Services include:

• In home training

Website: https://www.zoomeezdogtraining.com/

Sniffspot Jacksonville Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Jacksonville dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville cost?

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

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

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 Florida was $27,527 per year and $13.23 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

How are Jacksonville dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville?

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 Jacksonville 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 Jacksonville cost?

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

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

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 Florida was $27,527 per year and $13.23 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 Florida Cities

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