We started this practice because corrections were the default, and we didn't think they should be.
The Doggy Trainer opened in Willow Creek in 2015 after our founder, Priya Anand, spent years working in shelters and seeing dogs relinquished for behavior that force-free, well-timed training could have addressed. We've trained more than 1,200 dogs since then, and we've never used a shock collar, prong collar, or physical correction to do it.
Force-free, always
We train using LIMA principles — the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive approach endorsed by the major veterinary behavior and training associations. No shock, no prong, no alpha-roll techniques, in any program, for any dog.
Honest timelines
We won't promise a reactive dog will be “fixed” in a weekend, because that's not how behavior change works. We tell you what's realistic before you book anything, not after.
You do the training too
Even our Board & Train program ends with hands-on transfer sessions, because a trained dog with an untrained handler doesn't stay trained for long.
Three certified trainers, one shared method.
Priya Anand
CPDT-KA, Lead Puppy & Family Trainer
Priya has spent over a decade working with puppies and family dogs, with a particular focus on the socialization window and early foundations. She holds the CPDT-KA certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers and mentors new trainers on force-free handling.
Marcus Webb
KPA-CTP, Behavior & Reactivity Specialist
Marcus is a graduate of the Karen Pryor Academy and focuses on behavior modification for reactivity, fear, and resource guarding. He works closely with local veterinary behaviorists on cases that benefit from a combined training and medical approach.
Sadie Kim
Certified Trainer, Group Classes & Off-Leash Programs
Sadie runs our group obedience classes and off-leash reliability program, with a background in competitive obedience and scent work. She's especially known for making distraction-heavy group environments feel manageable for anxious handlers and dogs alike.