I started training dogs around 15 years ago volunteering on the Seattle Humane Society’s Behavior and Socialization Team. While a volunteer, I needed to go through a number of courses to qualify to work with dogs who needed “a little extra”. I became a go-to trainer for challenging behavior cases and was recognized as volunteer of the month for my work with dogs with difficult behavioral needs. My journey as a volunteer jump started a growing passion for dog training, behavior modification and rehabilitation which led me to continuing my education in everything dog. I have been a full time trainer and animal care professional ever since.
I am a graduate of the Victoria Stillwell Academy for Professional Dog Trainers and Michael Shikashio’s Master Course in Canine Aggression. I hold a CPDT-KA Certificate which means I’m board certified through the Council of Professional Dog Trainers. I’ve had
my knowledge and expertise assessed by leaders in the industry. To maintain certifications, I continue to stay up to date on the science of dog training, cognition, ethology, and behavior through continued education. That’s all to say that if I am not out training or playing with dogs, I’m always learning more about them and new ways to encourage the unique bond we share.
My training philosophy is to nourish the connection between dogs and their humans in a positive and force free way. I want to empower dogs to make choices that fit into our human world without quelling any of their doggish joy (don’t get me wrong, we’re still going to go over impulse control if we need to though). Having a dog is one of the most rewarding relationships... but I fully recognize that there are challenges along the way! Puppies are hard, teenagers can be even harder and it’s also not unusual for adult dogs to need a bit of guidance. That’s what I’m here for. I aim to help bridge communication between human and dog in a fun way so that everyone can get the most out of life with their dogs. In short, we manage what we can, redirect what we don’t like and build upon the things we love about each unique dog.
Since the passing of my own dogs, I’ve opened my home to all the dogs that need a place to stay who have a hard time in typical boarding facilities and houses with other pets or children. This could be due to reactivity, aggression, or unique medical care needs or just dogs who benefit from a big yard and lot of extra love and attention. I feel honored that I am able to give the dogs a home away from home and offer my clients a much needed refuge for their companions so they can take some time for themselves.
I often joke that while I don’t have any dogs of my own I also have dozens. Every picture on my website is a dog that I have personally worked with and I truly cherish the friendships I have created with each of them.
About Liz
My Helpers
Gabe
My partner, Gabe, has been around dogs as long as he's been around me. Together we've fostered dozens of dogs for the Humane Society.
He is active with each dog that comes through our home and holds down the fort with our boarded dogs if I am off on a training visit.
Lena
My sister, Lena, doesn't live with us but does stop by frequently. She often plays the part of a guest at the door for dogs working on calm greetings. She's very good with shy and reactive dogs and quickly shows them that new people are usually more fun than they are scary.
