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! My goal isn't to swoop in, "fix" your dog for an hour, and leave you with a rigid list of commands. Instead, 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

I believe training is about so much more than just suppressing unwanted behaviors — it's about reshaping them. 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. I don't believe in forcing a dog to rigidly comply, because pressure and fear don't lead to lasting, happy behavior changes.

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.

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.

Association of Professional Dog Trainers Member

Active APDT member committed to the highest standards of science-based training and ongoing professional development in the dog training community.

Hi, I'm Courtney.