About Courtney — Both Ends of the Leash

Why We Coach the Human, Not Just the Dog

Before I started training dogs professionally, I spent 20 years as an educator. In the classroom, I learned early on that true learning only happens when a learner feels safe, supported, and understood.

Dog training is no different! Real, lasting change happens at home, in the everyday moments you share with your dog — not in a single one-hour session or a few weeks away at a board and train. Your dog learns best with you, in the place where they actually live. That's why my mission is to coach you to understand, support, and communicate with your dog. Whether we are working together in your home or over a virtual call, my methodology is rooted in relationship-based training. Using positive reinforcement and science-backed protocols, we'll build a foundation of trust that lasts a lifetime.

Humane Teaching for Real Results

Training is about understanding why a behavior happens and teaching your dog what to do instead. Together, we will help your dog develop the skills they need to navigate our human world, empowering them to make better choices on their own. Pressure and fear don't create lasting, happy behavior change, so I never force a dog to rigidly comply.

Every dog learns at their own pace, so I meet each dog where they are. Whether your dog is fearful, overexcited, a senior, or still figuring out the world, we'll start with what they can do today and build from there, never asking for more than they're ready to give. And training should be fun for both of you! When learning feels like a game, your dog stays curious and engaged, you get to enjoy the process, and every session strengthens the bond you share.

My Journey (And My Pack!)

I've been working with rescue dogs for over a decade and have fostered nearly 200 rescue pups of every age, shape, and size — and trained many, many more!

Today, my home is run by my own trio of rescues: two boxers and a French Bulldog. Every single one of these dogs came to me needing specialized training and patience. Working with them taught me firsthand how to build deep, meaningful relationships from the ground up. In fact, one of my boxers is completely blind and deaf, which gave me unique, hands-on experience in navigating the world with visually and hearing-impaired dogs.

When I'm not coaching humans or training pups, you can usually find me hanging out with my own pack, getting my hands dirty in the garden, curled up with a good book, or exploring the trails on a hike.

I can't wait to meet you and your pup, and help you build the relationship you've always wanted!

My training background

Every method I use is grounded in peer-reviewed behavior science and validated by hands-on experience with hundreds of dogs.

A Special Focus

Experience with Blind & Deaf Dogs

One of my own rescue boxers is completely blind and deaf, and life with him has given me deep, hands-on experience helping dogs thrive without sight or hearing. Paired with dedicated study — including a seminar focused specifically on working with blind and deaf dogs — I'm well equipped to support visually and hearing-impaired dogs and to guide their families with patience and confidence.

VSA-CDT — Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer

Certified through Victoria Stilwell's internationally recognized academy, grounded in force-free, positive reinforcement methodology and the latest in behavior science.

Pat Miller Level 1 Academy Graduate

Graduate of Pat Miller's Level 1 Academy, an intensive, hands-on program in force-free training and behavior modification led by one of the most respected names in positive reinforcement dog training.

Master of Education — George Mason University

A Master of Education brings a deep understanding of how learning works — how to break down complex skills, build motivation, and create lasting behavior change. Skills that translate directly to dog training.

20+ Years in Education

Two decades of professional teaching experience means I know how to communicate clearly, adapt to different learners, and make training actually stick — for both dogs and their owners.

Nearly 200 Rescue Dogs Fostered

Fostered nearly 200 rescue dogs of every age, shape, and size — working with fearful, traumatized, and undersocialized dogs to help them find and thrive in their forever homes.

Pet Professional Guild Member

Member of the Pet Professional Guild, an organization committed to force-free training standards and the humane treatment of all animals.

Animal Positive Coalition Member

Member of the Animal Positive Coalition, a community of professionals dedicated to humane, positive reinforcement-based care and training for animals.

APDT International Member

Active member of the Association for Professional Dog Training International, committed to the highest standards of science-based training and ongoing professional development in the dog training community.

Hi, I'm Courtney.