Real-World Dog Training

Functional dog training for the real world.

Spokane dog trainer kneeling next to a senior black dog with a leash on a rural path with trees and hills in the background.

1-1 Dog Training

You’re So Close To Having The Dog You Want

Life with your dog shouldn’t feel this hard.

You got a dog to do fun stuff with, and now you’re walking at 4 am to avoid other dogs. You dread taking them out.

This is 1-1 work focused on clear communication and real-world practice so you can have the well-trained dog you dream of.

What You’ll Get

  • Confidence to handle your dog anywhere—on leash or off, around other dogs, or distractions.

  • The skills to navigate real life with your dog—walks, off-leash hikes, guests, busy streets, and everything in between.

  • Stress-free walks—no more barking or lunging every time you encounter another dog.

  • Group hikes—if your dog is suitable, you’ll be invited to join off-leash group hikes for ongoing fun and socialization for your dog.

Spokane dog trainer in green jacket sitting in a car with a black and white dog looking out the window.
A German Shepherd dog sitting on a wooden picnic table outdoors in a grassy field with trees in the background, under a cloudy sky.

Training Details

  • Training is private, just us.

    First session: I’ll meet your dog, assess the challenges you’re facing, see their current training level, and we’ll get started.

    Ongoing sessions: Scheduled as needed (weekly is ideal) to build momentum and make real progress. Each session ends with:

    • Clear homework

    • Time for your questions

    • A recommendation for next steps

    Formats: In-person or online

  • Single Session — $175

    • 60 minutes

    • Schedule at your own pace

    • Summary email included

    5-Session Package — $775 ($155 per session)

    • 5 weekly one-hour sessions

    • Summary email after each session

    • Email and text support between sessions

    • Public outdoor locations in north Spokane

    • In-home sessions may be available if needed for an additional travel fee

    • Online sessions available via Zoom

FAQs

  • In-person sessions will take place in a public location in north Spokane. In-home sessions are available for an additional fee.

    Online sessions will take place on Zoom.

  • Each session is an hour.

  • Wednesdays through Sundays, 12-7 pm.

  • I take a balanced approach to dog training, which includes: reinforcement, consequences, emotions, and environment.

    Simply put, we'll reinforce behaviors you want to see more of and have a penalty for behaviors you want to see less of. This system of training has proven to be the most effective way for any dog to learn.

    When it comes to dog training, one size does not fit all. I use a variety of tools to assist with training and motivating dogs: toys, play, food, pets, praise, flat collars, remote training collars, and pinch collars. The tools used will depend on what each dog responds best to as well as the goals you wish to accomplish and what you feel comfortable with.

    Please know that YOU get the final say, and I will not put a tool on your dog without your consent. We can train however you feel comfortable.

    My goal is for a happy, confident dog, not a shutdown and stressed dog and not a dog who only listens when you have food.

    • a 6’ leash

    • a long line or Flexi

    • a fetch/tug toy

    • treats if your dog won’t play

    • water and a bowl for your dog

  • I do have a guarantee for the 5 weekly sessions, but not for a single session.

  • That depends on your dog and your goals.

    For reactivity, around 10 sessions is typical. For obedience goals like loose-leash walking or recall, 5 sessions is often enough.

    Progress depends heavily on the time and effort you put in between sessions. Training doesn’t happen during the hour we’re together — it happens in the days that follow.

    A single session is a starting point, not a complete training program. All dogs need more than one session to see meaningful, lasting change.

Interested? Let’s Get Started!

Fill this out and I’ll be in touch!

What Spokane Dog Owners Are Saying

Dante

“Even our vet was impressed at how much calmer and less reactive Dante is.”

Five yellow stars with a black background.
Brown pit bull dog with ears back, eyes closed, and tongue out

Stella

“Stella was so overwhelming and hyper, we almost rehomed her… after training she’s a much easier dog to live with.”

Five yellow stars in a row.
a golden retriever sits in a brown field

Winston

“Winston went from barking at everyone to a very calm boy — we are so happy we found you.”

Five yellow stars in a row.
A tan and white corgi sits on a cobblestone walkway and gazes happily at the camera.

Tucker

“Carolyn helped my reactive dog become focused and calm on walks—life-changing results!”

Five yellow stars in a row.
An older black and tan German shepherd stares into the camera.