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The Best Dog Trainers in Columbus, OH of 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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

  • Sarah Dugger Photo

    Sarah Dugger

    Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)

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

    Dublin, Worthington, Hilliard, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, Gahanna, New Albany

    I first realized the power and impact of training in 2012. At the time, I was working at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio, observing Wouter Stellaard, a world-renowned animal trainer, train rats to complete an obstacle course. The five rats all named after different types of cheese, took the stage together. Four scurried around a pool, while one swam across, using the shortcut to get to th...


  • Elissa O'Sullivan Photo

    Elissa O'Sullivan

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    In-home visits: Columbus, Gahanna, Westerville, Upper Arlington, Dublin, Powell, Pataskala, New Albany, Worthington, Bexley, Delaware, Marysville

    Private practice since 1993.


  • Abbey Beasley Photo

    Abbey Beasley

    Board and train

    Favorite Part of Teaching: Getting to watch my students and their dogs improve and ultimately achieve their goals.

    Most memorable accomplishment: My WAO Pentathlon Gold Medal in 2016 with Dreamer was an incredible individual achievement. My Team Jumping Silver Medal in 2019 at the Agility World Championships with Swindle meant so much as it was a group effort where I was running not ju...


  • Jackie Brandal Photo

    Jackie Brandal

    Agility training, Board and train

    Ever since she can remember, Jackie has always loved animals and dreamed about working with them one day, which led her to the Ohio State University where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in Animal Science. Prior to graduation, Jackie started her dream career working for Joel Slaven's Professional Animals, which produced the animal show Surfin Safari at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, as w...


  • Shannon Busher Photo

    Shannon Busher

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Shannon has been a certified Canine Academy trainer for the last 3 years, and has trained over 375 dogs with positive experience techniques! Before finding her true passion as a dog trainer, Shannon was educated in Equine Studies. Shannon began her dog training career as an agility handler where she competed in CPE trials with her dog. Shannon believes that dog training is important because dog...


  • Mitchell Christian Photo

    Mitchell Christian

    Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Puppy training

    Mitchell Christian, is the owner and head trainer at Christian K-9 Academy and the president of the non-profit German Shepherd Rescue Ohio. Mitch's love for dog training started in childhood, but it really blossomed while serving in the United States Marine Corps, where he spent some of his time around the handlers of the military working dogs and his passion grew. At the end of his active duty...


  • Tiffany Copley Photo

    Tiffany Copley

    Puppy training, In home training

    Tiffany has spent her whole life working with dogs. As a small child, she trained the family dogs, and started working at the local animal shelter as a teen. At age 16, she started teaching dog obedience classes, and has helped people and dogs improve their relationships for over 20 years now. She has titled several dogs in obedience, agility, rally, and conformation, including the first Anatol...


  • Karin Coyne Photo

    Karin Coyne

    Protection/guard dog training, In home training, Board and train

    Karin has been training dogs since 2005. Her personal dogs have competed in flyball, agility, obedience, rally, barn hunt , disc and dock diving. At home she has Kevin-a Malinois Border Staffy, and Carl a Sports Mix and Lyra-a cat who acknowledges she exists. Some of her qualifications include: Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed Founder of the International Dog Parkour Asso...


  • Jennifer Crank Photo

    Jennifer Crank

    Agility training, Board and train

    Favorite part of teaching: While teaching the handling skills and proper obstacle performance is always rewarding, my favorite part is coaching the teams. Finding out their goals, building a plan to help them achieve those goals, and being there to celebrate in their victories.Most memorable accomplishment: My most memorable experience in recent time was winning the 2018 Silver Medal at the FCI...


  • Susan Crank Photo

    Susan Crank

    Agility training

    Favorite Part of Teaching: The opportunity to help others learn and improve handling techniques and obstacle performance. To show handlers the fun and teamwork they can develop and enjoy with their pets.

    Most memorable accomplishment: Winning my way onto the 2015 AKC World Team with Speedo.


  • Kayla Crist Photo

    Kayla Crist

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Kayla is a graduate from our Trainer Apprentice program. Prior to starting her own apprentice training, Kayla was a member of our care team for over 2 years, helping got make sure all of our dogs were happy and loved while at school! Kayla has spent her life around animals, which started when she joined her local 4H program and continued to support that program as a leader and mentor. Kayla lov...


  • Tommy Cross Photo

    Tommy Cross

    Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Puppy training

    Tommy is our dedicated kennel manager, ensuring that operations run smoothly and that all the dogs receive the highest standard of care. In addition to overseeing daily kennel activities, Tommy expertly sets up training scenarios for our police and protection dogs, helping to prepare them for real-world situations. As an Iraq combat veteran, he brings a wealth of experience and discipline to hi...


  • Abigail Curtis Photo

    Abigail Curtis

    Protection/guard dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training, In home training, Agility training

    Abigail has been training dogs since 2002. Her personal dogs have competed in agility, obedience, rally and barn hunt and she is captain of the flyball team here in Columbus. 'At home she has Gina-an ancient border collie mix, Sulley-a chihuahua mix, Flux-a Border Collie Jack Russel mix, and Mouse a whippet.‚ Some of her qualifications include:Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State ...


  • Karey Dufour Photo

    Karey Dufour

    Puppy training, In home training

    Karey has always had a love of animals and a desire to teach and care for those in need. She was the kind of kid that brought every stray or injured animal home to nurse, recover, and train. However, she took a different approach in life and joined the Air Force in 1995 as a nurse. Karey retired from the Air Force after 26 years of service in June 2021. While serving as a flight and trauma nur...


  • Alex Ebert Photo

    Alex Ebert

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Alex's desire to become a trainer started in 2011 when he had an out of control German shepherd puppy named Titan. His mom gave him an ultimatum to get him trained or he had to go! That led him to Alex seeking ecollar training. Alex and Titan did so well with the training that Terry offered him a job as a trainer.Alex is passionate about training because he loves to see the better quality of l...


  • Marty Ferguson Photo

    Marty Ferguson

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, Reactive dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Marty was born and raised in Ohio. He has spent his entire life living with dogs and is very familiar with many different breeds and mixes.

    Marty formally started dog training in 2012. His specialty is e-collar and off-leash obedience training and we were excited to welcome Marty to the Off Leash K9 Columbus team in 2019.

    When he is not training, Marty enjoys spending time wit...


  • Shane Gant Photo

    Shane Gant

    Agility training

    Favorite Part of Teaching: Helping students. Watching them have great moments and then succeeding.

    Most memorable accomplishment: Twofold....Being able to get my own nerves, for the most part, under control and making the finals in a national championship....


  • Casey Goldberg Photo

    Casey Goldberg

    Off leash training, Puppy training, Agility training

    Casey has been training dogs since 2014. Her personal dogs, a husky and a chow mix, like to play at agility, rally, barn hunt, and doing so many silly tricks for husbandry and for fun.

    Casey is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) who likes to puzzle out the Good Dog in any dog, and in particular enjoys fluffy dogs with a lot to say.


  • Dean Harris Photo

    Dean Harris

    Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Puppy training

    Dean is a versatile member of our team, serving not only as one of our skilled pet dog trainers but also as a dedicated decoy for our police and protection dogs. His passion for training extends to police K9s, where he finds great joy in honing their skills and ensuring they are prepared for the field. In addition to his work with dogs, Dean is an accomplished horse handler and frequently showc...


  • Kevin Ivasku Photo

    Kevin Ivasku

    Agility training, Puppy training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Owner of Capital Canine Dog Training, Head Trainer and proud small business owner. When I started Capital Canine I began my mission to help as many dogs and to educate as many human as possible. I believe that dogs are truly an amazing gift the world has given us and we should do everything in our power to build a strong, meaningful bond and give them the best life possible. I've been training ...


  • Sarah Karr Photo

    Sarah Karr

    Agility training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    "I absolutely love helping dogs and owners learn how to have the best relationship possible. I have been working with dogs in a daycare and in training settings for 3 years. My favorite things to work on are "party tricks" and socialization, but above all I just love watching dogs learn and engage with their people! I have two rescues pups! Hunter is a 3 year old Pittie Hound mix, Roscoe is an ...


  • Hannah Lairmore Photo

    Hannah Lairmore

    Board and train, Puppy training

    Hannah Lairmore is our Support Trainer as well as the Administrative and Communications Director. Hannah is the one you will communicate with during onboarding and for scheduling. She tries her best to make becoming a pack member super easy and fun! Hannah, raised in Columbus, has a degree in anthropology from The Ohio State University and loves seeing the similarities and differences between h...


  • Andreia Langenberg Photo

    Andreia Langenberg

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Deaf dog training, In home training

    Andreia grew up doing what she loved most, working with animals. She has had and taken care of her dogs since she was young. As a young teenager, she volunteered to work in kennels. She enjoyed working at a farm helping take care of horses. She attended schooling at the career center for Animal Management where she learned to care for many different animals. She earned a few different certifica...


  • Allison Linkous Photo

    Allison Linkous

    Agility training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    "When I was young I dreamed of being a dog trainer. In November of 2019 my fiance and I rescued our dog Nova from Virginia. Nova (pictured on the right) is a 3year old Australian Shepherd and Corgi mix. In 2021 we also adopted a 5 month old Australian Shepherd/Poodle/Border Collie mix. Henry (pictured on the left) is now about 1.5 years old and has settled nicely into our home. Henry has taugh...


  • Carissa Maney Photo

    Carissa Maney

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Carissa grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio and began working at an animal shelter at the age of 18. She has been working with dogs ever since. Carissa is familiar with many breeds and has a background in veterinary medicine.

    Carissa became interested in training while working at the animal shelter. Many of the dogs who came in did not have great manners, so she assisted the training team in t...


  • Allison Marcum Photo

    Allison Marcum

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Deaf dog training, In home training

    Allison has been training dogs of all ages and breeds since 2009 when she started as a kennel tech at her father's franchise. Allison followed her passion back to school and became a certified trainer before starting a professional business of her own. Allison believes you can understand a dog's psychology and emotion simply by observing their behavior. She's honed her techniques through years...


  • Paige markham Photo

    Paige markham

    In home training, Board and train

    My name is Paige, I am a devoted cat mom of 3 fat cats, who probably have more say in my life than I do, and have been happily married since 2021! Growing up we always had dogs which led me to my first job working with dogs. I knew I had found my passion in the animal world and started looking for ways to expand my knowledge and find a way to ensure I could stay working with dogs. In 2018 I sta...


  • Paige markham Photo

    Paige markham

    Puppy training, Agility training

    My name is Paige, I am a devoted cat mom of 3 fat cats, who probably have more say in my life than I do, and have been happily married since 2021! Growing up we always had dogs which led me to my first job working with dogs. I knew I had found my passion in the animal world and started looking for ways to expand my knowledge and find a way to ensure I could stay working with dogs. In 2018 I sta...


  • Jennifer markiewicz Photo

    Jennifer markiewicz

    Puppy training, Agility training

    My name is Jennifer Markiewicz; I am a happy wife, loving mother and North Linden resident. Making my dreams come true while helping serve my community. I am the proud owner of Proper Pups Dog Training. My whole life I knew I was supposed to be working with animals, so after High School I went to Vet Tech school where I graduated in 2009. Shortly after I graduated from Vet Tech school I complet...


  • Jennifer markiewicz Photo

    Jennifer markiewicz

    In home training, Board and train

    My name is Jennifer Markiewicz; I am a happy wife, loving mother and North Linden resident. Making my dreams come true while helping serve my community. I am the proud owner of Proper Pups Dog Training. My whole life I knew I was supposed to be working with animals, so after High School I went to Vet Tech school where I graduated in 2009. Shortly after I graduated from Vet Tech school I complet...


  • Molly Miller Photo

    Molly Miller

    Protection/guard dog training, Service dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Molly was born and raised in Cincinnati, Oh. After graduating from Ohio University with her bachelors in Communications and two minors in Marketing and Social Media. She started her career in the Marketing and Social Media industry. After graduating college, she adopted a Red Heeler mix named Bear. Bear sparked her interest and passion in dog training which encouraged her to change career paths...


  • Teresa Millwater Photo

    Teresa Millwater

    Puppy training

    Teresa grew up in a military family and moved frequently. Having dogs as part of her family assisted tremendously during the transition from one place to the next. As a military nurse, Teresa spent 20 years taking care of patients in both peace time and deployed environments. Early in her career, she determined that she had a passion for teaching and continued formal and informal instruction t...


  • Teresa Millwater Photo

    Teresa Millwater

    In home training

    Teresa grew up in a military family and moved frequently. Having dogs as part of her family assisted tremendously during the transition from one place to the next. As a military nurse, Teresa spent 20 years taking care of patients in both peace time and deployed environments. Early in her career, she determined that she had a passion for teaching and continued formal and informal instruction t...


  • Walter Mott Photo

    Walter Mott

    Agility training, In home training

    Walter Mott is our Lead Dog Behaviorist and Professional Dog Trainer. Walter is certified as an AKC Certified Evaluator, SIRIUS Accredited Dog Trainer as well as through the ADPT (Association for Professional Dog Trainers). Walter was educated at the Dunbar Academy, which advanced and expanded upon the positive reinforcement principles that he had already been practicing for over 15+ years with...


  • Walter Mott Photo

    Walter Mott

    Board and train, Puppy training

    Walter Mott is our Lead Dog Behaviorist and Professional Dog Trainer. Walter is certified as an AKC Certified Evaluator, SIRIUS Accredited Dog Trainer as well as through the ADPT (Association for Professional Dog Trainers). Walter was educated at the Dunbar Academy, which advanced and expanded upon the positive reinforcement principles that he had already been practicing for over 15+ years with...


  • Desiree Osterloh Photo

    Desiree Osterloh

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Desiree has always wanted to work in the animal field. She's had many exotic and non-exotic pets in her lifetime. She found Reale Dog Training which satisfies her desire to work with animals in a positive environment as well as make a change for the better in the animal world! She plans to enroll in the Karen Pryor Academy in the near future.


  • Desiree Osterloh Photo

    Desiree Osterloh

    Agility training, Puppy training, In home training

    Desiree has always wanted to work in the animal field. She's had many exotic and non-exotic pets in her lifetime. She found Reale Dog Training which satisfies her desire to work with animals in a positive environment as well as make a change for the better in the animal world! She plans to enroll in the Karen Pryor Academy in the near future.


  • Phil Reale Photo

    Phil Reale

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Phil is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner! Phil started training pups in 2006 through volunteering in The Ohio State Universities Puppy Kindergarten classes. After working with the OSU animal behaviorists Phil found his love of dog training and has never looked back.Phil has helped Animal Care Center at Cherry Way build a behavioral department since 2010. With over 17 years of ex...


  • Phil Reale Photo

    Phil Reale

    Agility training, Puppy training, In home training

    Phil is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner! Phil started training pups in 2006 through volunteering in The Ohio State Universities Puppy Kindergarten classes. After working with the OSU animal behaviorists Phil found his love of dog training and has never looked back.Phil has helped Animal Care Center at Cherry Way build a behavioral department since 2010. With over 17 years of ex...


  • Sarah Rutland Photo

    Sarah Rutland

    Board and train

    Most memorable accomplishment: My favorite agility moment was winning the 12 inch Challengers round at NAC 2022. I was really proud of our 2023 competition year. My papillon Primo and I made all three international teams. We won our spot onto the EO team, and we placed 9th cumulatively in Pentathlon at our first WAO.


  • Sarah Rutland Photo

    Sarah Rutland

    Agility training

    Most memorable accomplishment: My favorite agility moment was winning the 12 inch Challengers round at NAC 2022. I was really proud of our 2023 competition year. My papillon Primo and I made all three international teams. We won our spot onto the EO team, and we placed 9th cumulatively in Pentathlon at our first WAO.


  • Ellie Salyers Photo

    Ellie Salyers

    Agility training, Puppy training, Off leash training, In home training

    Meet Ellie, a valued team member of our business. With a deep passion for canine companionship, Ellie brings boundless energy and dedication to her role. Her love for dogs shines through in every interaction, as she delights in caring for them and engaging in playful activities that bring out their best.When Ellie isn't at work, you'll often find her with her loyal German Shepherd, Knox, by her...


  • Ellie Salyers Photo

    Ellie Salyers

    Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Puppy training

    Meet Ellie, a valued team member of our business. With a deep passion for canine companionship, Ellie brings boundless energy and dedication to her role. Her love for dogs shines through in every interaction, as she delights in caring for them and engaging in playful activities that bring out their best.When Ellie isn't at work, you'll often find her with her loyal German Shepherd, Knox, by her...


  • Selena Schaney Photo

    Selena Schaney

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Selena is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. Growing up there was never a time in her life when she didn't have a pet to take care of. She is a 2022 graduate of The Graham School. Selena originally wanted to be a Veterinarian Technician, but in her senior year of high school she interned at Reale Dog Training. 'I never thought I would find such a perfect job for me', she says. Th...


  • Selena Schaney Photo

    Selena Schaney

    Agility training, Puppy training, In home training

    Selena is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. Growing up there was never a time in her life when she didn't have a pet to take care of. She is a 2022 graduate of The Graham School. Selena originally wanted to be a Veterinarian Technician, but in her senior year of high school she interned at Reale Dog Training. I never thought I would find such a perfect job for me, she says. Th...


  • Austin Schuetz Photo

    Austin Schuetz

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, Reactive dog training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    As a seasoned handler with several years of professional experience, Austin truly fell in love with dog training when he realized that a dog's freedom, through proper training, was making a huge impact on the bonds between owner and dog. What a rewarding job! He believes life with your dog shouldn't be confined to your home but that it should be full of traveling, hiking, patio dinners and more...


  • Emma Sines Photo

    Emma Sines

    Aggressive dog training, Agility training, Herding training, Protection/guard dog training, In home training

    Emma joined Canine Academy in early 2022, but her desire to become a trainer started with her grandparents' yellow lab, Sunny. At a young age, Emma would spend time training Sunny in her grandparents backyard and attributes her love of dogs to the bond dogs created between her, her Grandfather and her uncle, Shawn. Since joining Canine Academy, Emma has trained and tutored over 100 dogs! Emma b...


  • Joel Slaven Photo

    Joel Slaven

    Agility training

    Joel Slaven has over five decades experience in the animal industry. His career started at the world-renowned Darby Dan Farms where he trained racehorses in Columbus, Ohio. Joel then began raising and training exotic animals at the Columbus Zoo for Jack Hanna. He has been the head animal trainer and show producer for parks such as Cypress Gardens, Silver Springs, Six Flags over Texas and Georgi...


  • Joel Slaven Photo

    Joel Slaven

    Board and train

    Joel Slaven has over five decades experience in the animal industry. His career started at the world-renowned Darby Dan Farms where he trained racehorses in Columbus, Ohio. Joel then began raising and training exotic animals at the Columbus Zoo for Jack Hanna. He has been the head animal trainer and show producer for parks such as Cypress Gardens, Silver Springs, Six Flags over Texas and Georgi...


  • Miranda Steenburgh Photo

    Miranda Steenburgh

    Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Miranda is a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. She has been working in animal care for over seven years. She started training after getting her dog, River! After experiencing the bond that was created with River through positive reinforcement training, she made it her career!


Welcome to Columbus’s list of top dog trainers. The Columbus, Ohio list is based on 113 votes from the Ohio Sniffspot community. Only the Columbus dog trainers with the top number of votes made this list. Trainers are ordered by number of votes, with Sarah Dugger at the top of this list with 109 votes. We also counted 477 votes for Ohio, with the remaining trainers listed outside of Columbus.

Our rankings include trainers certified by Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) and . They also specialize in In home training, Puppy training amongst other training programs.

Columbus dog trainer services include:

  • In home training
  • Puppy training
  • Agility training
  • Board and train
  • Aggressive dog training
  • Off leash training
  • Reactive dog training
  • Protection/guard dog training
  • Herding training
  • Deaf dog training
  • Service dog training

Behind every successful Columbus training session lies a passionate professional. Sarah Dugger shares why they chose this path: I recognized a need in the pet owner community for ethical, positive, and skillful trainers. In my 'zoo bubble' I was surrounded by the best of the best trainers, but in our everyday society, there is an overwhelming amount of traditional and behavior-suppressing methods. I feel motivated to show people that there is a better way, and that we can get results that leave both the pet parent and the pet happier and more bonded.. All 56 trainers on this Columbus list are committed to positive reinforcement. Trusted Columbus trainer, Elissa O'Sullivan, uses the following methods: Force-free, least invasive.

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

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FAQ: Meet the Top Columbus, Ohio Dog Trainers

Who are the top-rated dog trainers in Columbus, Ohio?

In Columbus, Sarah Dugger has earned the highest recognition for their expertise in Reactive dog training. They, along with Elissa O'Sullivan provide personalized training services to meet the diverse needs of Columbus dog owners.

What drives Columbus dog trainers to excel in their services?

Sarah Dugger and other leading trainers in Columbus are motivated by a passion for helping dogs and their owners. Sarah Dugger was inspired to offer their services in Columbus because I recognized a need in the pet owner community for ethical, positive, and skillful trainers. In my 'zoo bubble' I was surrounded by the best of the best trainers, but in our everyday society, there is an overwhelming amount of traditional and behavior-suppressing methods. I feel motivated to show people that there is a better way, and that we can get results that leave both the pet parent and the pet happier and more bonded..

What are the top services offered by Columbus trainers?

The top trainers in Columbus, such as Sarah Dugger, specialize in providing Reactive dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training. They describe their services as: Day Training, Coaching (Virtual and In-Home), & Pet Au Pair Service (Pet sitting + Training combo): Confidence building, establishing and strengthening cues, cooperative care (vet, groomer, nail trims, bathing, crate training, etc.), replacing problem behaviors with alternate behaviors, bond strengthening between pet parent and pet, introducing new pets to the home, and more..

What is Sarah Dugger’s best piece of advice for Columbus dog owners?

Sarah Dugger recommends: In order to be a dog trainer, you must also be a dog listener. Learn how to speak their language by observing their body language, and then you can build towards two-way communication.. This advice is particularly relevant for dog owners in Columbus looking to improve their dog’s behavior.

How can I choose the right trainer in Columbus for my dog’s needs?

Choosing the right trainer in Columbus involves considering their services, such as Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy dog training, In home dog training, Off leash dog training, Agility dog training, as well as their qualifications, including Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP).

Why are certifications important for Columbus dog trainers?

Certifications like Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) are crucial for trainers in Columbus as they ensure that each trainer has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide effective and positive training.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

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    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) thumbnail

    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? thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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

Sniffspot community guides

  • The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

    The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

    From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

  • How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

    How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

    Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

  • Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

    Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

    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.

  • How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

    How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

    Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

  • Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

    Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

    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.

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

  • The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    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.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    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. 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.

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

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

    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.

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

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

    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.

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

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

    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.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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 thumbnail

    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