Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

The Best Dog Trainers in Oakland, CA of 2024

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

This is a list of the top dog trainers in Oakland, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

Josh Beckler
Pending Canine Science Behaviorist Certification
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Board and train dog training
Northern California/Bay Area
Hi, my name is Josh Beckler...
...and I am a professional dog trainer passionate about helping dogs be well-behaved and happy.
I used to use punishment and force to train dogs, but now use force-free training with positive reinforcement and rewards.
Dogs trained using force-free methods are more confident, happy, and willing to learn, and trainers are able to build stronger relation...

Ali Sutch
KPA-CTP CCUI
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training
Oakland, Berkeley, Alameda
Hi! I'm Ali (she/her) and I live in Oakland with my two dogs, two cats, one gecko, and one human partner. Before moving to California in 2016, I was a zookeeper. I love learning about behavior and how it's not just about dogs- the laws of behavior apply everywhere, in our interactions with everyone (human and animal alike). Making sure everyone's needs are met, and that they are set up for ...

Nancy Frensley
CPDT-KA, CAP2, CGC Evaluator, FitDog 3, AKC Scent Work Judge
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training
Alameda and Contra Costa Counties
Nancy Frensley,CPDT-KA, CAP2, AKC Evaluator, Scent Work Judge

Nancy is the Senior Behavior and Training Manager at Berkeley Humane. Besides developing a training program full of variety and fun for students, during her 30 years at Berkeley Humane, she is involved on many levels with shelter and adoption from intake to evaluation and training of shelter staff. She operates the organiza...

Sara Scott
SAPro CPDT-KA
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, Off leash dog training
Worldwide
Sara Scott has been training dogs professionally in the Bay Area since 2000 and comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience that can only be gained through time and dedication to the art and science of dog behavior and training. She is deeply educated and brings her knowledge to application with great insight, grace and compassion for both species; human and dog.

Brian Galindo
AS - Assistance Dog Education, CPDT-KA, AKC Evaluator
Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Board and train dog training
Greater San Francisco Bay Area
After a motorcycle accident left me with a spinal cord injury, I had to reinvent myself and my career. I learned about Bonnie Bergin's school (BerginU.edu) and enrolled in 2011. After graduating with an AS in Service Dog Ed, I began teaching clients and started No Limits Service Dog & Obedience. I've been working with clients ever since and love helping my community!

Lea Orloski
CPDT-KA, CTBC
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Board and train dog training
Oakland, Richmond, Berkeley
Lea has always had love and a natural talent with dogs growing up. She began working with dogs in 2006 as a dog handler and began observing and assisting with training dogs & classes in 2009. In 2013 she attained a certificate in training and behavior from the Dog Training Internship Academy created by Janis Bradley. A 6-month course that focused on positive reinforcement dog training, dog beha...

Trish King
CBCD, CPDT-KA
Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training
Marin County, CA
I've been working with clients and dogs for over 35 years, and specialize in behavior problems like reactivity, resource guarding and separation anxiety. I am a speaker, and worked as Director of Behavior & Training at the Marin Humane Society for 23 years.

Rebekah Piedad
KPA-CTP
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Board and train dog training
Located in Shasta County and serving Southern Oregon, Western Nevada, and Northern California including the Bay Area and Sacramento
Rebekah Piedad, KPA-CTP knew she wanted to train animals since she was a small child. As a toddler, she had her heart set on training lions and tigers in local zoos, but dogs stole her heart in adulthood.

Rebekah has owned and fostered countless dogs ranging from greyhounds to Cane Corsos. She has volunteered for greyhound rescue, pit bull rescue, and served on the Board of Directors...

Kristin Lucy
CTC
Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training
Alameda \| Oakland, Rockridge \| Piedmont \| Berkeley \| El Cerrito
Kristin is a 2020 Honors graduate of Jean Donaldson's Academy for Dog Trainers.

When she was without a dog of her own at home for many years, Kristin got her ‚Äúdoggie fix‚Äù by volunteering at Tony La Russa's Animal Rescue Foundation (‚ÄúARF‚Äù) in Walnut Creek, beginning in 2013. She completed ARF's ‚ÄúShelter U‚Äù program which provided a basic background in positive reinforcement a...

Shane Stanis
IAABC CDBC, CPDT-KSA
Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training
In Person: Central & East Contra Costa County Hybrid: Greater Bay Area Remote: Nationally
I have been training professionally since 2002, and have a passion for supporting both humans and dogs as they navigate challenging behavioral needs.

I have an extra soft spot for shy & fearful dogs, and enjoy living with a pair of semi-feral dogs myself.

Ally Lantis
BA
Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Agility dog training
Concord, Clayton, Antioch, Martinez, Brentwood, Oakley, Danville, Lafayette, Pleasant Hill
www.tailoreddogtraining.com

Rayel Friesen
Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training
Marin, parts of San Francisco, parts of the East bay down to north Oakland
I've lived with dogs all of my life, but didn't realize that there was a carrier working with dogs until my early 30s when I started working at a dog boarding facility. From there I was brought into training from a trainer that worked for Sirius Puppy Training. She taught me how to work fear and aggression outside of the classroom. After apprenticing for a couple of years I was given my own cla...

Welcome to Oakland’s list of top dog trainers. The Oakland, California list is based on 696 votes from the California Sniffspot community. Only the Oakland dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Josh Beckler at the top of this list with 335 votes. We also counted 2983 votes for California, with the remaining trainers listed outside of Oakland.

Our rankings include trainers certified by CPDT-KA and CPDT-KA. They also specialize in Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training amongst other training programs.

Oakland dog trainer services include:

Reactive dog training
Puppy dog training
In home dog training
Aggressive dog training
Off leash dog training
Deaf dog training
Board and train dog training
Service dog training
Agility dog training

Behind every successful Oakland training session lies a passionate professional. Josh Beckler shares why they chose this path: Growing up, I had a difficult childhood. I lived in a neglectful and abusive home, and there were few sources of comfort and support for me. Dogs were my only escape from the pain and trauma of my daily life.‚Ä®One of my fondest memories from this time was roaming the Tennessee hills with my cocker spaniel, Lela May. She was my constant companion, and the love and loyalty she showed me were a source of solace in a dark and difficult time.‚Ä®Despite the challenges I faced at home, I always had a deep love and connection with dogs. They provided me with a sense of security and belonging that I couldn't find anywhere else.‚Ä®Eventually, the state intervened and removed me from my home. I was placed with my aunt, who became my legal guardian and provided me with the love and support I had been missing for so long.‚Ä®Although I left my childhood behind, I never forgot the role that dogs played in helping me to survive and thrive. I made a commitment to myself to use my experiences to help others, and I became a dog trainer as a way to give back to the animals that had given me so much.. All 12 trainers on this Oakland list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Oakland trainer, Ali Sutch, uses the following methods: We'll start with a brief phone call (~15 min) to see if I'm the right fit for you. Then we'll have an in-person consultation (~60 min) to dive into your dog's life and the needs of your household. From there, I'll write an assessment (including overviews for management and enrichment) and suggest how we might move forward - how many sessions, day training vs coaching, generally setting expectations, etc. Generally I meet with coaching clients every 2-3 weeks, and day training has a minimum of 2 sessions per week..

Explore the top dog trainers in Oakland as voted by our community:

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Oakland

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

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near California

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

See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Oakland

Sniffspot Oakland Dog Training Frequently Asked Questions

How did Sniffspot choose the best dog trainers in Oakland?

Our Dog Trainer Contest determines the best dog trainers in Oakland. We collected an impressive 696 resulting in 12 on this list, all located in Oakland. Thank you for trusting Sniffspot with Oakland dog trainer recommendations!

What qualifications do the top dog trainers in Oakland have?

The top dog trainers in Oakland are usually qualified by one (or several) of the following accreditations: CPDT-KA, CPDT-KA, and KPA-CTP.

Who is the top dog trainer in Oakland and why?

Josh Beckler is the top trainer in Oakland. They received 335 out of 35065, which was more than anyone else in Oakland. Josh Beckler specializes in: Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Board and train dog training

What do Oakland dog trainers specialize in?

The 12 dog trainers on our Oakland list specialize in: Aggressive dog training, Agility dog training, Board and train dog training, Deaf dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Puppy dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training

What are the most common training methods for Oakland dog trainers?

Our top dog trainer in Oakland, Josh Beckler, uses the following process: Utilizing all elements of motivation and rewards and staying in the vein of communication. Avoiding pain and fear as a mechanism for teaching or rehabilitation.

How much does dog training cost in Oakland?

The average dog training cost in Oakland is between $70 and $150 per hour. Take advantage of free intro sessions in Oakland or California to determine the right fit.

How do I choose the right dog trainer in Oakland?

To find the right match in Oakland, consider whether they hold CPDT-KA or CPDT-KA, as well as whether they specialize in Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, or something else.

What’s the best way to train my Oakland dog?

Our 12 Oakland dog trainers are the best to ask. Josh Beckler recommends: Dogs never know what the hell is going on. Maybe help them out a little. Spend the time.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

Dog Parent's Guide to Separation Anxiety

Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

Most recent articles

Best Dog Rescue and Shelter Contest

You can view our current top dog rescues and shelters here. Want to add a new rescue or shelter? Submit this form.

Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Discover the Australian Shepherd, a breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were originally bred in United States for herding, beginning in 1950s.

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Considered a medium dog, American Staffordshire Terriers were originally bred in United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting, beginning in 1800s — though they're known as gentle, playful lovers today.

Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Discover the Golden Retriever, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game, beginning in 1860s.

Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs.

Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

Best Dog Rescue and Shelter Contest

Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
Best Toys for Herding Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Rottweiler Aggression: Signs, Causes, and How to Handle It
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Dog Reactivity Chart: Understand and Fix Dog Reactivity
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
How to Socialize Your Reactive Dog
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Definitive Guide: What is Dog Reactivity?
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

The Best Dog Trainers in the United States of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in the United States, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Seattle, WA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Seattle, WA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Portland, OR of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Portland, OR, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in Los Angeles, CA of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in Los Angeles, CA, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.
The Best Dog Trainers in New York, NY of 2024
This is a list of the top dog trainers in New York, NY, based on votes from the Sniffspot community and the general public.

City dog parks guides

The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
The Best United States Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Top dog names in the US

Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
Most Popular Male Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
Most Popular Female Dog Names
Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
Most Popular Golden Retriever Names
Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names
Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US

The Best Washington Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Washington. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Oregon Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Oregon. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best California Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in California. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best Florida Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Florida. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.
The Best New York Dog Rescues & Shelters in 2024
This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in New York. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.

The Best Dog Trainers in Oakland, CA of 2024

Josh Beckler

Ali Sutch

Nancy Frensley

Sara Scott

Brian Galindo

Lea Orloski

Trish King

Rebekah Piedad

Kristin Lucy

Shane Stanis

Ally Lantis

Rayel Friesen

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Oakland

See The Best Dog Trainers In Other States Near California

See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Oakland

Sniffspot Oakland Dog Training Frequently Asked Questions

How did Sniffspot choose the best dog trainers in Oakland?

What qualifications do the top dog trainers in Oakland have?

Who is the top dog trainer in Oakland and why?

What do Oakland dog trainers specialize in?

What are the most common training methods for Oakland dog trainers?

How much does dog training cost in Oakland?

How do I choose the right dog trainer in Oakland?

What’s the best way to train my Oakland dog?

David Adams

About Sniffspot

Follow us

Related articles

All categories

Most recent articles

You can view our current top dog rescues and shelters here. Want to add a new rescue or shelter? Submit this form.

Related articles

Top dog guides per area

Dog training guides

Dog enrichment guides

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

Top dog names in the US

Top dog rescues in the US

About Sniffspot

Browse by top cities

Atlanta

Austin

Boston

Calgary

Chicago

Columbus

Dallas

Denver

Edmonton

Houston

Las Vegas

Logan

Los Angeles

Milwaukee

Minneapolis

Nashville

New York

Old Toronto

Omaha

Ottawa

Philadelphia

Phoenix

Portland

San Antonio

San Diego

San Francisco

Seattle

Tampa

Washington

Westminster

Browse by top states

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California