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Live a Happier Life With Your Dog!

Using humane, science-based methods, as a professional positive dog trainer, I can help you open up a conversation with your dog that will allow you to communicate your expectations of your dog’s behavior, better understand your dog’s needs, and build a relationship based on trust, clear communication and fun! Training isn’t something to be done to your dog but something to do with your dog. Let me help create a partnership between you and your pup that will make you both want to happy dance!

Welcome to a world where your dog is not just a pet, but a cherished companion, well-mannered, and a source of endless joy. At Happy Feet Dog Training, we specialize in force-free, positive reinforcement (R+) training methods that transform your canine friend into the perfect companion. Explore our comprehensive training programs tailored for every stage of your dog’s life!

puppy training graduation
Puppy Training

Tired of puppy shenanigans? Get relief from biting, chewing, whining, and household accidents while establishing a great foundation for the well behaved easy going adult dog you are looking forward to.

 

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Dog Training

Whether your dog is new to your home or you’re looking to address existing habits, we can help shape your dog into the cherished and well-behaved companion you envision.

 

tips and tricks
Tips and Tricks

Are you the proactive student who likes a head start on homework? Get a head start on your dog’s training journey! Explore or training style and gain valuable insights to kickstart your training before your first lesson.

 

Carly Otte
Carly Otte
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Only good things to say about Happy Feet Dog Training! Alexa is full of ideas and knowledge that has helped us with our anxious pup. She is easy to work with, communicate with and always flexible. Thank you Alexa!
Barbara Michalik
Barbara Michalik
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Alexa did a wonderful job with our Aussiedoodle puppy “Leo”. I opted for the one-on-one class. He has learned so much in the last few months (sit, stay, place, recall, loose leash walks, etc.). I tried another larger class who recommended pinch collars. I could never do that. Happy Feet Training works on reward training. This was so much better! I highly recommend Alexa and Happy Feet Dog Training. They’re wonderful!
Paul Ceratti
Paul Ceratti
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Very good Dog Trainer! Very Nice Lady.
Michael Drelich
Michael Drelich
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Alexa helped me with my anxious dog that was made worse by another dog trainer. She was very kind and understanding of our past training methods and helped us ween off to positive reinforcement only which greatly helped his anxiety and gave me the happy, well-behaved dog I always knew he could be!
John Pison
John Pison
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Excellent experience with Alexa's training. She is very competent and positive and my dog LOVED her. Highly recommended!
Caitlyn Arroyo-Myers
Caitlyn Arroyo-Myers
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I’ve taken group classes with Alexa twice now. I love her classes. With Alexa’s help, I’ve been able to sharpen my wolfhound’s skills. Whether you are new to training, or have some prior experience, Alexa can help you achieve your training goals. When I work with my dog, I want it to be a bonding experience. I want training to be fun. Alexa makes training fun. She has a strong and positive relationship with her dogs, and that shows in her training. Do not hesitate to reach out to Alexa! She travels! She can observe and work with your dog in the environment where the issues occur. By having the flexibility to work in home, in public or in a training facility, Alexa can more accurately and effectively pinpoint training issues and address your needs.
Mom Smith
Mom Smith
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Happy Feet provided our family the perfect opportunity to further bond and train our pup, a Spring doodle. We could not have asked for a better experience: small group as well as individual instruction, practical suggestions that really work, affordable, and enjoyable interactions working our dog. I highly recommend Happy Feet as a guiding partner for you and your furry friend! Debbie S.
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clicker training

Why Use a Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer?

Choosing a Positive Reinforcement Trainer is a commitment to fostering a harmonious bond with your dog. As a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), our force-free, positive reinforcement (R+) approach, guided by the principles of Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA), ensures a training experience rooted in compassion and understanding. Unlike methods that may deploy aversive tools, our techniques prioritize your dog’s well-being and build a relationship based on trust and clear communication.

The benefits of Positive Reinforcement Training include not only effective learning but also a joyful process for your dog. By focusing on rewards and encouragement, we create an environment where your canine companion willingly engages in learning, promoting long-term behavioral success. Our approach is supported by reputable organizations such as the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), the American Kennel Club (AKC), and the Humane Society, emphasizing the humane and scientifically proven aspects of Positive Reinforcement Training. Choosing our force-free methods means choosing a path of understanding, respect, and happiness for both you and your furry friend.

AVSAB Position Statement on Humane Dog Training

AKC: Positive Reinforcement Dog Training: The Science Behind Operant Conditioning

Humane Society: Positive Reinforcement Training

Why We Stand Out

Our force-free, positive reinforcement (R+) training methods follow the LIMA (Least Invasive, Minimally Aversive) principles. While other trainers claim to follow LIMA, we distinguish ourselves by not resorting to tools such as prong collars and shock collars for quick results at the detriment to the dogs we train.

We take pride in our commitment to true positive reinforcement training, ensuring that our methods align with the principles endorsed by APDT, AVSAB, AKC, the Humane Society, and others. Our approach is rooted in kindness, respect, and the scientific understanding of animal behavior.

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dogs on a kayak

I believe nothing is more important than being happy with your dog. I know it’s impossible to be happy all the time, but I strive to set every client up for as many happy days and moments as possible. Science has proven that we can train dogs in a way that is fun and rewarding for both you and your dog! Let me show you how to communicate your wants and rules to your dog in a way that will make them happy to listen to you! Both you and your dog will be willing participants of training!

Service Area

Our dog training services are available in the following areas:
  • Allegheny County, PA
  • Beaver County, PA
  • SW Parts of Butler County, PA
  • Washington County, PA
  • Western Parts of Westmoreland County, PA
  • Southern Parts of Lawrence County, PA
  • Columbiana County, OH
  • Jefferson County, OH
  • Brooke County, WV
  • Hancock County, WV
We will service clients outside of this area, but a travel fee may apply. Contact us for more specific information.