Welcome to the Phoenix, AZ Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Phoenix 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 Arizona 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.
Hello! Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kennedi and I am a dog trainer that works in the community of Fountain Hills, AZ, and the surrounding areas. I am CPDT-KA Certified, a Fear Free Certified Professional, an AKC CGC Certified Evaluator, a Certified Bite Prevention Educator, and a Be A Tree Presenter through Doggone Safe.
I am very passionate about my work and care deeply for animals, large or small, especially dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds. I have four dogs, Beau, Bailie, Jack, and Annie. I also have a wonderful cat named Oliver.
I grew up in South Dakota and Alaska, and have been surrounded by a variety of animals, wild and domestic. I have a deep appreciation for living things and believe in respecting and caring for them. I have had a host of pets including dogs, cats, hamsters, fish, turtles, and bucket calves. I have also had a hand in rescuing dogs, cats, baby birds, and raccoons.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology in 2016. I have been a Senior Dog Trainer and Mentor for Petco for 3 years and have a vast amount of experience working with dogs of all sizes and breeds. I have been training independently for 3 years, serving Fountain Hills and the surrounding area.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Fear Free
AKC Certified Evaluator
Be a Tree Presenter
Dog Bite Prevention Educator
Services include:
More info about service provided: I provide custom private in-home classes that fit the needs of you and your dog from basic obedience to behavioral issues. I help educate my clients on canine enrichment as well.
Behavioral issue focus: I work with dogs that have social anxiety, separation anxiety, and reactive dogs.
Training methods: I use a positive, force-free reinforcement approach starting with an evaluation that allows me to create a custom training plan that fits the needs of you and your dog.
Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer to improve the lives of the dog's and people in their lives. So many dog's end up in shelters because of preventable behavior problems that training can solve.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part about being a dog trainer is meeting and working with a variety of dogs and people.
My #1 dog training tip: My #1 dog training tip is to provide enrichment activities for your dog. A little enrichment goes a long way!
Service areas: Fountain Hills
Website: https://www.pawsitivedogtrainingaz.com/
My passion for animals started before I could walk. My first dog was a Husky/Shepherd mix, Kilo, who was a few years old when I was born. We were inseparable and he was the first to teach me that a dogs bond is powerful. He was likely the reason I wanted to become a Veterinarian. Through my childhood and teen years there were many influential cats, dogs, and horses that I was fortunate enough to bond with, and learn invaluable lessons from. The most significant ones where CC (a Quarter Horse) and Chaz (a Boxer). They both taught me that our relationship was based on building a strong foundation of trust through communication.
I got my first real job at a veterinary clinic and that set the course for me finding my first career as a Veterinary Technician. I received my Associates Degree in Applied Science and soon after became a Registered Veterinary Technician. As a Technician I was able to make a difference in other peoples companions through medicine. I was there for when they first got that cute 8 week old fluff ball, and guiding them through the tough adolescent years, watching them mature, and then helping their owners say their last goodbyes.
As time would have it, I found that my patients mental well being was just as important as their physical well being. This revelation came shortly before a clinic switch and meeting Andrew Nelson. Andrew began to shape me into a Technician and Trainer that could encourage and nurture a bond based off of the dog gaining confidence and having tools to figure things out, and then be reinforced positively for doing so.
Since becoming an Associate Trainer for the Clever Canine in 2015, I have worked with over 600+ clients in both in-home and group class settings. I am now Elite Fear Free Certified, CPDT - KA (Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed) Certified and am an AKC S.T.A.R Puppy, Tricks and Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. I have become passionate about helping others build a strong bond with their dog through ethical ways of training.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Fear Free Elite
RVT
Services include:
More info about service provided:
Group Classes
Individual Lessons
Puppies, Adolescents, Adults, and Seniors Dogs
Basic Manners
Behavioral issue focus:
Reactivity (Dogs and Humans)
Resource Guarding
Separation Anxiety
Fear
Anxiety
Training methods:
Positive Reinforcement based trainer
Individualized Plans
Why I became a dog trainer: To apply my knowledge of dogs from my years as Registered Veterinary Technician and help them live better lives with their owners at home.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Making a difference in a dogs life for the better.
My #1 dog training tip:
Work with the dog that is in front of you.
What I mean by this is that you have to train at level of comprehension of the dog you are working with. Take in consideration of what they know and if they are able to apply that in the situation you are asking them to.
Service areas: Morgantown
Website: https://www.theclevercaninewv.com/
My name is Mary Price, the owner of MP Dog Training Academy. I have ten years of dog training experience with puppy training, dog obedience, behavior modification, and introduction to agility and rally. In my journey to become a certified dog trainer, through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), I have taken a variety of classes to reinforce and build upon my skills to resolve unwanted behaviors, to teach obedience, and dog sports to help dog owners develop a better connection with their dog to enrich their lives.
As a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) I am committed to becoming a better trainer through continued education as I strive to continually improve my experience and qualifications. With a tireless dedication to educating dog owners to discover the benefits of basic obedience training, I am paving the way for the owner and dog to build a working relationship that helps them learn new activities or sports as they move from basic obedience to sporting actives.
Certifications: CPDT-KA
Services include:
More info about service provided: As a certified dog trainer, I train through positive reinforcement using treats, attention, and toys to reach your dog training needs. A variety of classes are offered throughout the week. Classes include Puppy Obedience, Obedience, Obedience Through Games, Tricks, Rally, Agility For Fun, Triebball, Tricks, Working K9, and Task classes.
Private lessons are available for those who have pets with behavioral issues, aggression, reactivity, and those seeking some one-on-one training. Boarding as well as board and train options are available along with day training, and daycare.
Behavioral issue focus: Often, I work with dogs experiencing fear, leash reactivity, separation anxiety, and impulse control.
Training methods: By training through positive reinforcement, I am able to help you establish a stronger bond with your pup. I offer group classes and private lessons to help you reach your training goals. I do not offer a one size fits all training plan. In an effort to help you reach your training goals, I create a training plan that fits your needs.
Why I became a dog trainer: I became a dog trainer to enable be to provide a friendly atmosphere with the best dog training service available. I want to ensure my clients and their pets receive dog training services that exceed their expectations. As a dog trainer, I can make a positive difference in the lives of my customers and their dogs while doing what I love, working with dogs. My unconditional love for dogs and desire to help owners establish a bond through positive reinforcement training.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is watching the bond strengthen between clients and their dogs.
My #1 dog training tip: My #1 dog training tip is to use Clear Consistent Communication.
Service areas: Phoenix Metropolitan and Surrounding Areas
Website: https://mpdogtraining.com/
I love what I do and helping others!
Certifications: CVT, Elite Level 3 Fear Free Certified Professional, AKC CGC & Tricks Evaluator
Services include:
More info about service provided: I offer an integrative approach of holistic and Fear-Free dog training and Behavioral modification where we meet both the emotional and physical needs of the Pet to establish lifelong, reliable habits quickly. I specialize in Aggression Reactivity, and Anxiety Modification Programs and am referred to by 57 veterinarians, many rescue organizations, and hundreds of students over my 22year career. I am also a licensed vet tech, specializing in nutrition and work with multiple species for behavior modification, including: dogs, cats, horses, birds, ferrets, rats, fish...and their humans! :-) I offer Puppy through Senior Obedience/Manners and Enrichment. I have also helped trained Service Dog tasks, and trained in or competed/trialed/titled in almost every dog sport. Let me know how I can help, in-person or from afar, as I consult worldwide and was an international conference speaker as well.
Behavioral issue focus: I specialize in Reactivity, Aggression, and Anxiety Modification.
Training methods: I am a Level 3 Eliter Fear Free Certified Professional, CVT, and use methods that do no harm.
Why I became a dog trainer: Because there was a huge need for non-aversive methods in my area at that time and I took dogs who were "unadoptable" or "untrainable" by aversive trainers and we made progress quickly with understanding and building trust, even titling a few dogs that were "untitleable". Found my passion early in life and have been doing it ever since.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Working with dogs, of course, but also with their people and watching their people have the light bulb moments and light up in smiles when they get better understanding from their pets.
My #1 dog training tip: Dogs Do What Works to make them feel best. Nothing more, nothing less. Help them choose to want to do what you want to do in fun and rewarding ways and they will LOVE working with and for you. :-)
Service areas: I serve the Greater Phoenix area currently, but travel across the country, so also have many states I work in as I go. :-)
Website: https://www.trekkingdogtrainer.com
Kristi Kay May is the owner and founder of Legend Acres Dog and and Horse Solutions and Legend's Heroes Service Dog Training Program.
Originally from Port Home, Michigan, a place where the dairy cows outnumber people. Kristi got her first horse around the age of six. She grew up in the world of horse shows and competitions.
After joining the Army, Kristi put her passion for horses on hold until she was able to purchase a farm outside o Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
While living here, Kristi saw a need in the local community for affordable dog boarding, this is where Legend Acres Boarding was Born. With her life long passion for animals and a unique need to find an income source that fit into her post military life she new this was a perfect choice. From this, Kristi launched Legend Acres Dog and Horse Solutions as well as Legend's Heroes Service Dog Training Program.
Certifications:
MS, CVPM, LVMT, BSA, AHT, ABCDT, CHA Cert Riding Lesson Instructor, CHA
EFM, Cert Equine Nutrition, Cert Animal Cognitive Behavior, AKC Evaluator, AKC Fit Instructor, Pet Partners Therapy Evaluator and Instructor, PPG Professional Canine Instructor
Services include:
More info about service provided: Legend Acres Dog and Horse Solutions is an Award-Winning Unique Veteran Owned business offering Affordable Kind-Evidence Based Professional Training and Lesson Services in packages to fit any budget! Legend Acres offers Private In-Home, Group, and Board and Train Dog Training, Behavior Modification, Trick Classes, Therapy Dog, and Service Dog Training across the United States in our online live interactive sessions and in person with one of our many assistant instructors.
Legend Acres offers training for all ages and breeds. Registration is open for Online and In person Group Classes! Now offering Board and Train! Learn more and schedule your free behavior consult at https://www.legend-acres.com/links or 931-516-3064 (text or call) Legend Acres for all your pet training needs!!!!
Behavioral issue focus: All Breeds, Leash Reactivity, Barking, Anxious Dogs, Puppy's, all ages, Adult dogs, Dog reactivity, Therapy Dog Training and Certification, Service Dog Training and Public Access Testing, AKC Testing
Training methods: Free Behavior Consults, Fundamentals, Intermediate, Advanced, Urban, Pet Therapy Prep Course, Puppy Socialization Class, Public Access Test, Novice Trick Classes and Workshops, Scent Workshops, AKC Fit Workshops and Classes, Agility Workshops and Classes, Rally Classes, Behavior Modification Classes and Workshops. Force Free, Fear Free, Positive Reinforcement
Why I became a dog trainer: Lack of Resources in our area in the Veterinary World
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Facilitating the Animal-Human Bond
My #1 dog training tip: It is never too late to start training!!!!
Service areas: Valley wide Phoenix, Clarksville TN, Remote World Wide
Website: https://www.Legend-Acres.com
Dog trainer and boarder
Services include:
More info about service provided: Potty training
Sara has spent the last 15 years of her life devoted to helping animals professionally. After studying dog training under the mentorship of Jessica Wheatcraft and completing her initial certification through Animal Behavior College, Sara was hired into the Behavior & Training department at the San Diego Humane Society. Initially responsible for all training class programming at the humane society, Sara guided class participants through puppy socialization, basic obedience skills, and Canine Good Citizen tests. As Behavior Center Coordinator, Sara managed a team of volunteers who worked tirelessly implementing training and behavior modification plans with the most challenging cats and dogs in the shelter system.
After moving to Phoenix in 2016, Sara started her own private training company, Smiles Dog Training. Focused on in-home private training, Sara continues to work through a wide variety of behavior concerns with her clients. Sara maintains active certification through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers and membership with the Pet Professional Guild, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and Association of Professional Dog Trainers. In 2018, she became a licensed educator for Family Paws Parent Education, a Pet Dog Ambassador Instructor/Assessor, and a Fear-Free certified trainer. She also served as Co-Chair of the Education Committee for the Association of Professional Dog Trainers in 2019.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, Fear Free professional, Family Paws licensed educator, Pet CPR
Services include:
More info about service provided: Smiles Dog Training offers fear-free humane training techniques for dogs and cats. We specialize in a wide range of behavior issues and shelter/rescue animals. Services include puppy training, puppy preparation, day training, behavior consultations and programs, private training, & rescue/shelter dog and cat support.
Behavioral issue focus: Aggression, fear, reactivity, resource guarding, and multi-dog households.
Training methods: All clients start with a virtual consultation, receive immediate recommendations and a custom training plan, then move into the most appropriate training program for their needs.
Why I became a dog trainer: 2006
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping families maximize their relationships with their dogs so everyone gets their needs met.
My #1 dog training tip: Reinforce what you love and it will happen more!
Service areas: North Phoenix, Peoria, Glendale, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Happy Valley, Cave Creek
Website: https://www.smilesdogtraining.net
Our lead trainer, Angelina McCaster, has been working as an animal advocate in the rescue community for over a decade, and training dogs professionally for just over 7 years. As one of only TWO Certified Family Dog Mediators in the state of Arizona, and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), she is proud to be an advocate for continued education and scientific advancement in the animal behavior field. You'll love her energy and knack for breaking down complex training plans into manageable steps so that you can make real, lasting progress with your dog.
Angelina and their support team of pet sitters and training assistants aim for effective and lasting changes, based on strengthening your relationship with your dog
Showing off our ability to train your dog is never the goal. Working with you to enact lasting change that remains once class is over or once boarding is done, is important to us.
Certifications: CPDT-KA, Family Dog Mediator
Services include:
More info about service provided:
We offer 1x1 training
options in person for those local to the Phoenix area as well as remote virtual learning options for clients nationwide. We have a specific focus on support for families with dogs displaying reactive or aggressive behaviors, and also work with families looking to set up basics, learn how to best bond with their dogs and work through less complex behavior.
Behavioral issue focus: Anything from teaching core skills and best meeting needs, to best practices in behavior modification and management for dogs displaying more difficult or aggressive behavior toward dogs or other people.
Training methods:
Every relationship between dog and guardian presents its own unique challenges and individual goals, and teaching you how to help set them up for success is the best way to establish long term solutions.
We always start clients out with an initial consult so that we may create and recommend a custom training plan, and then do our best to cater to your needs as well as your dogs'.
We're here to help build your relationship and understanding with your dog so that we can safely + comfortably work towards trust, with the goal of getting your family to a place where you feel safe working with your dog, without tools or methods that cause them pain or discomfort.
Why I became a dog trainer: Working in a field that gives me a chance to teach both dogs and humans, and help them to understand eachother a little better is the one thing I could see myself doing forever. I'll always be grateful to those who set me along this path and who encouraged me to continue learning more about how to effectively and compassionately train dogs and teach people.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching someone's bond with their dog grow, and to see them start to look at one another as a team. I learn some I thing new from every family I work with, and hope that I never stop learning.
My #1 dog training tip: Remember that the decisions you make for your dog should be based around their individual welfare and needs, dedicate time to simply getting to know them and learn how to ask them questions.
Service areas: Central & South Phoenix, Tempe, Chandler
Website: https://teachadogtofish.com
Hi! My name is Emily and I love to geek out about the science behind animal learning and canine behavior. I developed an interest in training when, as a veterinary technician, I saw so many perfectly healthy dogs relinquished or put to sleep simply for behavior related issues.
People were thinking of training way too late! Dog trainers were thought of as last resorts when really, we should be considered when you first get your puppy or adult dog. My educational background started with a Bachelor's Degree in Tourism Development and Management from Arizona State University.
I then earned my Dog Trainer Certification through Animal Behavior College, an internationally recognized school approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education.I am truly passionate in educating people about the importance of early puppy socialization, preventative dog training and positive reinforcement techniques.
My goal is to teach owners how to be proactive rather than reactive. I provide practical, common sense dog training for the modern owner and family dog.When I'm not training, I love camping, whitewater rafting, snowboarding and traveling. I also love finding new, unique restaurants around the valley (recommendations always welcome)!
Certifications: Dog Trainer Certification through Animal Behavior College, an internationally recognized school approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education
Services include:
Website: https://moderndogtrainingwithemily.com
How are Phoenix dog trainers selected for this list?
These are the top dog trainers in Phoenix 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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix?
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 Phoenix 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 Phoenix cost?
Phoenix 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 Phoenix dog trainer. How can I get listed here?
As long as you have a training facility or do in person training in Phoenix 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 Phoenix?
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 Arizona was $30,275 per year and $14.56 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.
Ordered alphabetically, only included cities where there is enough data to compile a list
Gilbert, AZ
Mesa, AZ
Scottsdale, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Ordered alphabetically, only included states where there is enough data to compile a list
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.
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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!
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.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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?
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.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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.
So: Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (cars, bikes, skateboards, and other fast-moving objects are also common triggers) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling not only feels embarrassing for you — it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
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.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
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Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
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Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
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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.
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Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
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.
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.
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. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular 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 the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.