Dog training that improves your dog’s behavior and their wellbeing.

Serving folks in Baltimore & worldwide

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Modern, ethical, force-free training for the dogs of Baltimore & worldwide.

Modern, ethical, force-free training is about honoring dogs as the sentient beings they are and training in a way that doesn’t cause harm. Our understanding of dogs—their cognition, emotions, relationship to us, and more—has evolved far beyond the days when strict obedience and harsh methods were deemed necessary. We now know that dogs can be trained using a gentle, compassionate approach that meets the dog’s needs while also meeting ours. That’s the cooperative approach to dog training that you’ll find here.

I offer three dog training services:

In-Person Training

For folks in Baltimore County & Baltimore City, I offer one-on-one training in your home.

Go to Private Lessons

Virtual Training

Virtual private lessons for anyone worldwide! Virtual training is just as effective as in-person training.

Go to Virtual Training
A golden retriever in a teal harness stands on the stairs of a rowhome in Baltimore City looking back at the camera over her shoulder.

Classes & Courses

Virtual and in-person group classes and courses on specific topics—coming soon!

Coming Soon!

Here’s how I’d describe my training…

A German Shepherd mix looks up at the camera with his mouth open in a smile. On the ground around him is a dirt path and fallen leaves.

Positive

I use rewards and not punishment because while both “work”, only one has a lasting impact that’s positive.

A german shepherd with a teal leash stands on a dirt trail with his back to the camera. The trail curves ahead of him, and you can see bare trees and the sun setting up ahead.

Understanding

Every sentient being wants to be understood. I seek to understand both you and your dog to give you the best possible guidance.

Empowering

I’m not a guru. I aim to empower you to confidently guide your dog through the situations that matter most to you.

Meet the Dog Trainer

My dog training services combine the best of virtual and in-person training formats to help dogs in the Baltimore area and worldwide.

I started training dogs in 2012 and I’ve always loved working with dogs who have “behavior problems” of all kinds, including leash reactivity, stranger danger, challenges in a multi-dog household, and more. I also work with dogs whose behavior is less intense but just as frustrating!

My current method of training is informed by science, grounded in ethical considerations, and rich in positive experiences. We’ll achieve results, but they won’t come at your dog’s expense.

Hi, I’m Nikki.

More about me
A white woman with brown hair and brown eyes smiles at the camera with her arm around a Bernese Mountain Dog.

What My Clients are Saying…