Whether you’re welcoming a new dog or puppy, or need help with their anxiety, reactivity, or hyperarousal, dog training shouldn’t be about control—it’s about helping them feel safe, calm, and understood.
About
In my 40 years as a dog trainer, I’ve found that everyone learns best when the process feels safe, inclusive, and fun, no matter how many legs they stand on! As the author of Puppies For Dummies, Dog Anxiety for Dummies, and other books, my mission has always been to change the way people think about their dogs. Dogs who feel good act happy and well-mannered, it’s that simple. Let’s work together to build trust, communication, and calm—so life feels good on both ends of the leash.
Learning Options
Learning options
From puppies to seniors, from first-timers to long-time dog lovers, I offer flexible, personalized coaching designed to meet you where you are and grow from there.
Testimonials
Some of our happy dogs
“Sarah took our shy little pup and helped her grow into a confident, go-lucky companion. She’s loving, honest, and completely in tune with dogs.”
– Emily J.
“Sarah doesn’t just train dogs—she understands them. Petey learned so much, and so did we. She’s a true teacher.”
– Mandy C.
“We were overwhelmed with a new puppy and an aging dog—Sarah brought calm, clarity, and transformation in just one week.”
Diane M.
“Our dog came home from Sarah’s program social, responsive, and full of joy. The training notes made follow-up so easy.”
– Barbara B.
“With Sarah’s help, our dog stopped lunging and started greeting new people with ease. She gave us our peace back.”
- Vanessa C.
“Every session left us more connected to our dog—and to each other. Sarah’s guidance was exactly what we needed.”
Helen B.
FAQs
When should I start training my dog?
As soon as your dog comes home! Whether you’ve got a new puppy, a rescue, or an older dog, it’s never too early—or too late—to start learning. I’ll help you create calm, consistent routines and show you how to help your dog feel confident and secure.
Can you help with behavior issues like reactivity, anxiety, or aggression?
Absolutely! I specialize in helping dogs feel safe and understood, so they can self-regulate and respond more calmly to the world around them. My approach blends empathy with real-life strategies you can use right away, drawing from decades of experience and my book Dog Anxiety for Dummies.
Do you use e-collars or prong collars?
Never. My training is based on trust, clarity, and communication—not fear or force. I’ll show you how to get reliable behavior without using pain or intimidation.
How much does training cost?
Session rates depend on the type of service and how far you are from my office in Katonah, NY.
Visit this page to learn more about costs. You’ll also see your estimated rate after entering your location on the new client form. You’re also welcome to travel to my location for a discounted rate, or book a virtual session, which is available anytime, anywhere.
How do I know which service is right for me?
Start by filling out the new client form. Based on your location, goals, and your dog’s needs, we'll follow up with personalized recommendations—whether that’s in-person training, virtual support, or a group class.
The best way to get started is by filling out a new client form. Someone from my office will follow up promptly to walk you through your options and help you schedule a session.
Sarah is based in Katonah, NY, and offers in-home visits (travel fees vary by location), virtual training worldwide, and group classes in Greenwich, CT.
