🐾 About Happy Feet Dog Training

Building Better Behavior Through Trust and Understanding

At Happy Feet Dog Training, we believe that a wagging tail and a happy heart are just as important as a perfect heel. Based in Beaver, PA and serving the Greater Pittsburgh Area, we specialize in positive reinforcement dog training that helps you build real-life skills and a stronger bond with your dog.

Whether you’re just starting with a new puppy or working through reactivity or pulling on leash, we’re here to guide you with science-backed, reward-based methods that work — without fear, force, or intimidation.

💜 Our Mission & Values

We’re here for dog parents who want more than just obedience — they want connection.
Our mission is simple:

We’re here for dog parents who believe that a wagging tail and a happy heart are just as important as a perfect heel. Our approach blends positive, reward-based training with the fun of learning to “speak dog”—because yes, that’s totally a thing! We’ll show you how your pup’s mind works and help you build reliable behaviors through trust and understanding. The result? A confident, well-mannered dog who walks nicely on leash, comes when called, and responds to cues because they truly understand you—all while strengthening your bond. By teaching both you and your dog how to better understand each other, we create lasting success that goes way beyond just sit, stay, and come.

We’re committed to:

Science-backed training rooted in learning theory and canine behavior

Empathy and patience for both dogs and their humans

Flexible support that meets you where you are — literally and figuratively

👋 Meet Your Trainer

Hi, I’m Alexa — the trainer behind Happy Feet Dog Training!

Dogs have been part of my life for as long as I can remember, but it wasn’t until I began studying canine behavior that I realized just how much communication, trust, and mutual respect impact our relationship with them. I founded Happy Feet to help dog owners build joyful, functional partnerships with their dogs using positive reinforcement and force-free training methods — no outdated or harsh techniques.

As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), I’ve demonstrated my commitment to science-based, humane training through rigorous testing and continuing education. I regularly invest in professional development with leading canine behavior experts to ensure I’m offering the most effective, up-to-date support possible. My clients know me for my calm, encouraging teaching style, personalized training plans, and ability to make dog training both effective and enjoyable.

When I’m not working with clients and their pups, you’ll usually find me out having fun with my own! I love training and competing with my dogs in a variety of dog sports — from agility and conformation to scent work, dock diving, and even bikejoring. Whether we’re chasing titles or just enjoying the journey together, I’m always learning, growing, and celebrating the incredible bond between dog and handler.

Credentials & Certifications:

Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) Professional Member
AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certified Evaluator
AKC Trick Dog Evaluator
American Safety & Health Institute Certified Pet First Aid

🦴 Why Positive Reinforcement?

Because it works — and it feels good.

Positive reinforcement (R+) training is about rewarding the behaviors you do want instead of punishing the ones you don’t. It helps dogs learn faster, feel safer, and build confidence — especially important for puppies, rescues, or sensitive dogs.

We don’t believe in quick fixes, dominance-based methods, or tools that cause pain or fear. As a CPDT-KA certified trainer, I follow the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) principle in all of my training — meaning I always choose the most effective approach that causes the least stress or discomfort to your dog.

Instead, we help you:

Understand how your dog thinks and learns
Teach reliable cues through motivation, not intimidation
Build trust and long-term success — not just obedience

📍 Where We Train

Happy Feet Training is based in Beaver, PA and proudly serves:

Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Washington Counties
Greater Pittsburgh suburbs, including Cranberry, Moon Township, Sewickley, and beyond
Select areas in Ohio and West Virginia, including Weirton, Steubenville, and East Liverpool

We train where it works best for you — whether that’s in your home, at a local park, or out in the real world where behaviors matter most.

✨ Ready to Start?

Let’s build something great — together.
Whether you’re raising a brand new puppy or working through behavior concerns, we’re here to help you and your dog succeed with confidence, kindness, and clarity.

🐾 Our website is currently being redesigned to better serve you and your pups! 🐾