The Best Dog Trainers in Vancouver, WA of 2023

Welcome to the Vancouver, WA Sniffspot top dog trainer list for 2023. This is a list of the top dog trainers in Vancouver 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 Washington 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 Vancouver, WA Dog Trainers in 2023

Stephanie Collingsworth

With more than 20 years of experience working as a certified trainer to help dogs and owners with kind, practical solutions to a wide range of training and behavior issues. I strive to be a compassionate teacher and I love coaching humans on how to listen to, and communicate more effectively with, their animal companions.

My extensive experience working as a private trainer, as part of the behavior team at the Animal Behavior Clinic, and as a behavior evaluator and counselor at a county animal shelter, has shaped my comprehensive, welfare-focused approach to dog training & behavior consulting.

Certifications: CBCC-KA Certified Behavior Consultant Canine

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Offering virtual and in-home training and behavior modification services for a wide variety of complex and simple behavior and training goals.

Behavioral issue focus: Leash reactivity, fear based behaviors, anxiety based behaviors, separation anxiety, cooperative care, basic manners, multi-pet households, and more

Training methods: Science based solutions that focus on biological factors, individual traits, and life experiences that make each dog one-of-a-kind.

Why I became a dog trainer: I wanted to help dogs thrive in their homes by teaching their human family members how to communicate effectively and better understand their dog's needs.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Helping dogs and people find joy in their relationship!

My #1 dog training tip: Meet your dog where they are at.

Service areas: Clackamas, Washington, Multnomah, and Clark counties

Website: https://www.instinctdogtraining.com

Brie Blakeman

Brie Blakeman, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, is a certified professional behavior consultant and dog trainer. She is also a board member of the acclaimed Whole Dog Academy Dog Training School, and member of the Pet Professional Guild. Brie started her professional career as a full time coach for the Training and Behavior Department at The Oregon Humane Society. It was during her time there she discovered a passion for not just training dogs, but coaching the humans who raise and love them. Raising her own two Siberian Huskies with complex and challenging behavior issues put Brie in a unique position to hone her skills working with 'out of the box' behavior cases that require comprehensive and in-depth understanding of behavior modification and learning theory. It was during this time she discovered her love for working complex behavior cases centering around dog reactivity, vet phobia, and aggression. To boost her knowledge Brie attended and graduated from leading aggression expert Michael Shikashio's Aggression in Dogs Master Course, and studied cooperative care training with Laura Monaco Torrelli. Brie continues her studies by regularly attending the most current, up to date conferences on canine behavior taught by today's leading experts in animal behavior.

While Brie received her first professional certification in 2017, she credits her skill to a lifetime of working with and training animals.

As a child, she raised her family's standard poodles, rats, and parrots, spending all her free time training them to perform a wide variety of behaviors from potty training to tricks. At the age of 12 she started training western horses to perform dressage/hunter Jumper which taught her a lot about how human body language, handling, and relationship with the animal plays a large role in behavior outcomes.

Her background as a public speaker and educator has given her a unique ability to recognize subtle shifts that can be made to enhance the lives of both the human and canine end of the leash. This is supported with a deep passion for breaking down challenging concepts and methodologies into practical everyday use.

Alongside running her own business, Brie and her two huskies enjoy Skijoring, Rally Obedience, and Trick Training. Her three year old Siberian Husky Yuka has earned her Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert Trick Dog Titles.

Brie's greatest teachers have and will always be the dogs and humans she has the honor of working with every day.

Brie credits her knowledge and work to Susan Friedman, Karen Pryor, Laura Monaco Torrelli, Leslie McDevitt, Suzanne Clothier, Jean Donaldson, Tanya Roberts, Donna Hill, Emma Parsons, Emily Larson, Annika McDade, Dr. Chris Pachel, Hannah Branigan, Grisha Stewart, Ken Ramirez, Pamela Reid, Patricia B. McConnell and many more!

Credentials:

Certified Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA), through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers

Aggression In Dogs Master Course Graduate

VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialist Pet First Aid/CPR

Bachelors of Arts in Business Development and Interdisciplinary Arts

Certifications:  CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: Our certified dog trainers use clicker training and focus on strengthening the human-animal bond while addressing behavior issues large and small. We offer private in-home coaching, drop-off tutoring, group classes, puppy socials, and have a specialized day training camp. Our Day Training & Enrichment program in SE Montavilla offers dogs ages 6 months and older a day training program with opportunities for dynamic enrichment & training with a certified professional. This program provides ample time and space for both indoor and outdoor enrichment activities and follows a rhythmic schedule that fosters intrinsic canine learning in a peaceful and nurturing setting. The focus of the program is to give dogs the chance to develop and learn at their natural pace.

Behavioral issue focus: Separation Anxiety, Aggression, Reactivity, Puppy Training & Socialization, Cooperative Care & Husbandry

Training methods:

We help you develop healthy training habits that will support your goals & relationship for life.

Our certified dog trainers use clicker training to strengthen the human-animal bond and improve behavior outcomes.

With our 'BMET' pedagogy, we help you understand why your dog is the way they are, and how the four pillars of body language, management, exercise/enrichment & teamwork can influence their behavior.

WE OFFER PRIVATE TUTORING & COACHING:

Tutoring is when a trainer works solely with the dog to onboard and refine the skills they need to thrive.

Coaching is when a trainer works with you to teach you how to train, understand, and maintain your dog's new skills.

Training sessions are structured to achieve goals while helping you understand why we do things the way we do. We teach you how to work with your dog rather than against him or her, utilizing whatever motivates your dog (food, toys, attention, the environment) to get timely and consistent results.

We believe in fostering harmonious relationships through empathic teaching practices guided by ethics and science. The training we do with you is a collaboration and we promise to remain open to learning through each stage of the process with you. We also pride ourselves in helping guardians see the roadmap ahead of them so we can all set realistic expectations for ourselves and our dog. It is our goal that you should never feel lost on this journey, and to support you each step of the way.

DROP OFF DAY TRAINING CAMP:

Our Day Training & Enrichment program in SE Montavilla offers dogs ages 6 months and older a day training program with opportunities for dynamic enrichment & training with a certified professional. This program provides ample time and space for both indoor and outdoor enrichment activities and follows a rhythmic schedule that fosters intrinsic canine learning in a peaceful and nurturing setting. The focus of the program is to give dogs the chance to develop and learn at their natural pace.

PUPPY SOCIALIZATION & SKILL CLASSES:

A leading cause of behavior problems in adult dogs is improper socialization. Our drop off puppy socialization classes are led by certified professionals who will help your puppy form positive associations with other dogs, people, surfaces, sounds, and handling.

We also offer group skills classes for all ages, so you can learn along with your dog.

Why I became a dog trainer:

I became a dog trainer because of my ever-growing passion for helping both dogs and people not just survive together but to THRIVE. Raising my two Siberian Huskies with complex and challenging behaviors put me in a unique position to hone skills of working with “out of the box” behavior cases that require comprehensive and in-depth understanding of behavior modification and learning theory. 

This paired with my background as a public speaker and educator gave me a unique ability to recognize and communicate subtle shifts that can be made to enhance the lives of both the human and canine end of the leash.

This, matched with a deep passion for breaking down challenging concepts and methodologies into practical everyday use lead me to pursue this as a career.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: My favorite part of being a dog trainer is seeing my clients shift from initially just wanting to change who their dog is, to appreciating, loving, and wanting to support the dog they have in front of them. I also routinely see my clients begin to apply the theories and methodologies of positive reinforcement training to other, non-dog, areas of their life. It is not uncommon for folks to express to me "Working with you and my dog in this way has changed me as a person. I have a new and holistic perspective on building healthy and secure relationships with people and animals throughout all areas of my life."

Service areas: Multnomah County

Website: https://www.noblewoof.com

Rachael Davis

I have spent my working life helping dogs with special needs - first medically and then behaviorally. My time working as a trainer for the public at a large animal shelter provided me with exceptional training mentors and a vast variety of dogs from whom I learned an incredible amount about training and communication between dogs and people.

As I continued my work with dogs with greater behavioral challenges, I found K9 Nose Work as the perfect compliment as for these particular animals and their extraordinary humans. It provides a remarkable outlet through which the dog gets to be a dog in the purest sense while enhancing the bond between the dog and their human through this unique training game.

Certifications:  Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), Certified Nose Work Instructor (CNWI)

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I provide private, in-home basic manners training for all dogs as well specializing in training for reactive and aggressive dogs and either people. Additionally offer group and private K9 Nose Work instruction.

Behavioral issue focus: I work with dogs who are sensitive to a variety of triggers like other dogs, people, new environments as well as sights or sounds.

Training methods: After meeting with a client and their dog for a behavior consultation, I provide an individual training plan based on their goals including behavior modification and counter-conditioning procedures so the client and dog and work together to continue their training progress.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a trainer to improve the lives of dogs and the humans they live with through communication.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: I feel lucky to be able to help make happier homes for dogs and people.

My #1 dog training tip: Be fluent in dog body language.

Service areas: SW Washington including Vancouver, Camas, Ridgefield, Battle Ground, and La Center

Website: https://www.thedogpath.com

Dawn Jansen

Dawn was led to the Tellington TTouch work in 2001 by her rescue Doberman, Chris. Chris was a large, red Doberman who was a gentle soul, and not very confident around other dogs. Someone suggested to Dawn that she try the Tellington TTouch Training Method, so she found a weekend workshop and was so amazed by the change in Chris in just 2 days, that she signed up for a week-long training. At the end of that training, she knew she wanted to be a Practitioner and share this amazing technique with others. She completed the Companion Animal Practitioner Program in 2003 and opened her TTouch Practice - The Pawsitive Companion. She was awarded the status of Companion Animal Instructor in 2021.

Dawn works with private clients, conducts workshops and TTouch Practitioner trainings. She has had several rescue dogs with a variety of behavioral concerns, so she can speak with compassion and experience with clients who are struggling with the same concerns. She enjoys helping pet guardians learn to observe their animals to identify early signs of stress, fear, and discomfort so they quickly respond and help the animal feel more comfortable and confident. She is passionate about helping people recognize that their animal's behavior is a form of communication and helping them learn how to understand and respond to that communication to build the animal's trust and confidence.

Dawn lives in Beaverton, Oregon with her husband, and 7-year-old rescued mix-breed dog, Tucker. She enjoys golf, horse riding, and spending time in nature.

Certifications:  Certified Tellington TTouch Instructor

Services include:

• In home training
• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training

More info about service provided: I use positive force-free, fear-free techniques to build trust and confidence. I can train basic cues, loose leash walking, addressing reactivity, helping shy and fearful dogs gain confidence, calming hyperactive dogs, preparing your dog for bringing a baby into the home and more

Behavioral issue focus: I work with dogs who are reactive to other animals or people, leash-pulling, excessive vocalization, fear, anxiety and more

Training methods: My practice is based in the Tellington TTouch Training method which uses fear-free and force-free techniques to build trust and confidence in your dog. Each dog is individual so I assess the dog and determine what tools and techniques might work best to address the concern. I teach the dog's handler the techniques so they can work with the dog on their own between sessions so progress is made more quickly.

Why I became a dog trainer: I found the Tellington TTouch Training Method which helped my dog gain confidence and learn to be ok around other dogs. Having had reactive, fearful dogs, and seeing how effective this training method is, I wanted to help other people help their dogs so they could have a joyful, comfortable relationship with their dogs and their dogs could stay in their forever homes.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Seeing people's relationship with their dog change when they understand their dog better, and can help their dog become more calm, confident and comfortable.

My #1 dog training tip: A dog's behavior is their way of communicating. Learn to understand their communication by observing your dog's body language and behavior so you can understand what they are trying to communicate and figure out what they need to become more calm, confident and comfortable.

Service areas: Beaverton, Hillsboro, Forest Grove, Tigard, Tualatin, Sherwood, Portland Metro Area, Vancouver

Website: https://www.pawsitivecompanion.com

Patty Bensene

I've been training for over 25 years, companion obedience, puppy and behavior classes. The last 15 years has been mainly focused on all aspects of agility including serious competition and relationship building.

Certifications:  CPDT-KA

Services include:

• Reactive dog training
• Puppy training
• Agility training

More info about service provided: I teach competition agility, companion obedience, puppy skills and behavior classes. Most classes start as private then as skills of the handler and dog improve I will move you into a group class so you can practice and refine your skills in a distracting environment. I teach classes in Oregon City, Monday through Thursday, morning to evening.

Behavioral issue focus: Reactive dogs or over stimulated dogs. Dogs with no focus or drive.

Training methods: I like to lure dogs into behavior or let them offer desired behaviors for rewards. I want the dogs to think for themselves offering appropriate behaviors/tasks to solicit rewards whether its a treat, toy, touching or verbal.

Why I became a dog trainer: I became a trainer because I've always been interested in the animal/human communication and bonding process. I've had family dogs my entire life but as a young adult I wanted my own dog. Although I thought my first dog was the greatest dog ever, she had some serious problems. I wanted to know how people managed to have such "perfect" dogs and so began my journey into the world of dog knowledge and training.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching a dog blossom into the great dog they were meant to be and the joy of the owner/handler being able to take credit for the success.

My #1 dog training tip: Do not force your dog to do anything. Teach them to learn and they will be successful at any task you train them for.

Service areas: Multnomah, Marion, Washington, Clackamas County, OR.
Clark County , WA

Website: https://ffdogschool.com

Susan Fletcher

Susan began training animals on her own as a child and a young adult. She then apprenticed under a behaviorist and three trainers, and has been training professionally since 1989.

She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) and has attended many continuing education seminars on a variety of dog topics. The speakers include: Ian Dunbar, Suzanne Clothier, John Rogerson, Patricia McConnell, Sue Sternberg, Terry Ryan, Roger Abrantes, Denise Fenzi, Shade Whitesel, Sara Carson, Kyra Sundance, and more.

Susan teaches Puppy Kindergarten, Beginning and Intermediate Training, Distractions, Tricks and Games. She also does private training for problem solving and some reactivity. Susan teaches Canine Good Citizen and am a Certified Evaluator for CGC, and is a Trick Dog Evaluator for both the AKC and Do More With Your Dog organizations.

Susan loves all dogs! The breeds she's shared her life with include: Chihuahuas and Chihuahua Mixes, Chinooks, Labradors, Australian Cattle Dog, German Shepherd Dog, Dalmatian, Lhasa Apso, and American Eskimo.

Certifications:  CPDT

Services include:

• Puppy training

Website: https://www.dogdaysnw.com/

Doug Duncan

I started dog training after attending the Academy for Dog Trainers with Jean Donaldson. I've worked with many trainers all over the world, and have learned from many people and dogs over the more than 15 years I've been training. I own and operate Doggy Business Dog Training in Portland, Oregon where I work with fearful, anxious, and aggressive behaviors in dogs.

Certifications: CTC, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA

Services include:

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

More info about service provided: I work with fearful, anxious, and aggressive behaviors in dogs primarily in one-on-one sessions with the dog's people. Though I do also train dogs individually when that serves the situation. I adjust to the needs of the people, and the dogs, I'm working with.

Behavioral issue focus: Generally speaking, I work with dogs who are uncomfortable with things in their environment, be that new people, other dogs, new situations, or any such environmental stimuli.

Training methods: I start with an initial consultation where I learn more about what the dog is doing and why. I take time to assess each dog, and to explain my assessment process, along with how I develop a training plan. Every dog is different, as is everyone's situation. My training plans involve training the dog along with the dog's people so that they can learn more about what helps, and because they are the dog's primary care givers. I have found that the best success comes when we as the dog's care givers are involved in the training.

Why I became a dog trainer: I started as a dog walker and pet sitter, and just loved the work. I couldn't believe I could work with dogs every day AND get paid for it. I am lucky I get to do what I do.

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Engaging and educating the people who live with their dogs. In the beginning, my primary draw was the dogs. But after just a few years, I learned to really enjoy helping people too. I love helping people better understand and work with their beloved pets.

My #1 dog training tip: Make training part of your daily trusting relationship with your dog. Good things will always follow!

Service areas: NE, SE, North Portland, Oregon. Beaverton, Gresham, Lake Oswego. Vancouver, WA.

Website: https://www.DoggyBusiness.net

Terri Spaeth-Merrick

Terri has been involved in nose work since 2009. She recalls seeing a small poster advertising classes: 'K9 Nose Work, a great activity for reactive dogs'. At the time having a young working-lines dog who was very reactive to other dogs was a challenge, all her goals of working titles seemed far out of reach. She signed up for the class immediately with both of her dogs one reactive and one goofy - both Bernese Mountain Dogs. Terri can say without hesitation that nose work completely changed all three of their lives, for the better it saved Peaches.

Peaches, the reactive one, started competing in 2010, culminating in her Elite Championship (and 23 nose work titles) with many placements and HIT's, she competed at National Invitationals in 2015, and a Summit trial with placements in 2018 as her 'retirement' run. Peaches also excelled at Draft Work earning her Master Draft Dog and Brace Draft titles. Ochoco earned 12 Nose work titles almost earning her NW3 Elite before we lost her to cancer, to Ochoco nose work was just pure fun. Working such opposite K9 personalities was a great education. Terri has also successfully competed with several of her student's and friend's dogs, ranging from Beagles to Labradors to Tervurens. She has a new Bernese Mountain Dog puppy, Juniper, who is just starting her nose work career earning her ORT and NW1 in mid 2021 and her NW3 Elite by the end of 2022. Juniper loves hunting and is a joy to work!

Terri attends as many workshops, seminars, webinars and camps on nose work as possible. In 2014 she started teaching, in 2018 became an NACSW CNWI (Certified Nose Work Instructor) with an average of 80 students per week.

Additionally, Terri has provided video or photo service at over 170 trials, allowing her to watch well over 11,000 dogs work odor in a trial setting. An amazing educational opportunity few have had; watching 30+/- dogs work the same search really illustrates what is happening with odor and the ways dogs work it.

She has hosted numerous NACSW trials since 2011. She is also a judge and certifying official for several other organizations and is soon to be approved as an NACSW trial judge.

Her varied experiences over the years have contributed to a solid understanding of how odor moves and how dogs work odor and how to set thoughtful hides.

Certifications:  CNWI (NACSW Certified Nose Work Instructor)

More info about service provided: NACSW K9 Nose Work/AKC Scent Work/Sport Scent Detection (Specialized classes in the scent sports only.)

Behavioral issue focus: Most any dog can do K9 Nose Work, whether that is at home in classes just for fun and enrichment, or in a competition setting at the highest levels.

Training methods: Reward Based K9 Nose Work/Scent Work Instruction

My favorite part of being a dog trainer: Watching the beauty of a dog working a scent problem.

My #1 dog training tip: Relax, breathe, let the dog do its job.

Service areas: Portland, Oregon and surrounding areas.

Website: https://NoseWorkTrial.com

Sniffspot Vancouver Top Trainer Frequently Asked Questions

How are Vancouver dog trainers selected for this list?

These are the top dog trainers in Vancouver 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 Vancouver 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 Vancouver?

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 Vancouver 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 Vancouver cost?

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

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

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 Washington was $37,610 per year and $18.08 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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