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The Best Dog Trainers for Agility Training in 2024

David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of dog trainers who specialize in Agility training. Based on feedback and votes from our Agility training community, we've curated a list of top-rated dog trainers in the US.

  • Keiko Swanberg Photo

    Keiko Swanberg

    Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI) AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Issaquah, Sammamish, Bellevue, Mercer Island, New Castle, Renton, Burien.

    Keiko Swanberg, the owner of Zen Dog Seattle, LLC is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI), a licensed AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) evaluator, and a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). Keiko moved to the U.S. from Japan in 2000 and has been a long-time shelter/rescue volunteer and foster parent ever since. Her...


  • Jennifer Caves Photo

    Jennifer Caves

    Masters in Psychology, M. Psy., CGC, FPPE

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    In person, DFW Area and Surrounding areas. Virtually, world-wide.

    I have my M.Psy, CGC, FPPE and am always soaking up continued education experiences. I have a passion for rescue and partner with many rescues locally and throughout the state to create educational programs and support their fosters and adopters. I have been working professionally with dogs for 15 years. I also run a small non-profit Sanctuary for feral dogs and cats and a few behavioral anima...


  • Sarah Weber Photo

    Sarah Weber

    Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed, International Association of Animal Behavioral Consultants-Accredited Dog Trainer, Association of Pet Dog Trainers- Member, AKC Evaluator, Certified Canine Athletic Advisor, Certified Canine Conditioning Specialist, Professional Dog Trainer- Absolute Dogs, Pet First Aid Certified, The Dog Gurus- Member, Master in Aggression

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Montgomery County, Delaware County, Bucks County, Newtown Square, Wayne, Radnor, Upper Merion, Eagleville, Havertown, Lower Merion

    Sarah Weber
    Animal Trainer
    CPDT-KA, IAABC-ADT, PDT, CCAA, CCCS, APDT
    Sarah's background is pretty diverse in the animal field. She has worked in all aspects of canine behavior as a Sales Specialist for local pet stores as well as dog grooming. She has worked as a Boarding and Daycare Operations Manager, Canine Handler, and Shift Lead at Penn Vet Working Dog Center through the Univer...


  • Lynsie Bernier Photo

    Lynsie Bernier

    Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge Assessed, CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    Oshkosh, Winnebago County, Northeastern WI

    Lynsie Bernier is the owner of Ideal DOG and brings 30 years in the animal care field to the business. Lynsie has worked in nearly every capacity of professional animal care since 1993.

    Over the last 18 years Lynsie has focused her career on dog training and behavior. Her credentials and memberships include:

    Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
    Approved AKC Canine...


  • Sara Sokol Photo

    Sara Sokol

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Puppy training

    Midcoast Maine for in person and global for virtual

    Hello! My name is Sara Sokol. I got into the business of dogs when I was a teenager, pet sitting and dog walking for family friends and neighbors. In 2004, I started Follow My Lead, a full service dog walking/running and pet sitting business in Pasadena, California. Follow My Lead. serviced seven different cities throughout the Pasadena area, employed 6 part time employees and held a client bas...


  • Stacey Hawk Photo

    Stacey Hawk

    Deaf dog training, Agility training, Off leash training

    Training at Numerous Chicago area training facilities, and Evanston, IL

    I have been teaching Agility full-time and competing with my GSDs for over 25 years, and teaching and competing in Scentwork for the past 10 plus years. My dogs and I also enjoy DockDiving and we dabble in herding.
    I am the founder (and still chair) of Chicago's first dog park, Wiggly Field, spending years working to change local city, county and State ordinances and laws to allow the desi...


  • Frances Dauster Dauster Photo

    Frances Dauster Dauster

    NADOI certified, SF/SPCA certification, IAABD Accredited Dog Trainer

    Deaf dog training, Agility training, Puppy training

    Mobile, Fairhope, Daphne, Theodore, Grand Bay, Irvington, Malbis, Spanish Fort

    I believe it is vital to keep current with the most modern aspects of dog training and behavior; therefore I am active every day on discussion lists with Professional Dog Trainers, Veterinarians, Certified Pet Behavior Counselors, and other canine professionals worldwide!
    Online webinars, seminars etc. are also on my weekly to-do list!


  • Dawn Mellon Photo

    Dawn Mellon

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Southern Oregon, Medford, Ashland, Talent, Jackson County

    Owner/Instructor of The Missing Leash dog training & The Hiker Pup Academy online learning program.


  • Amanda Boyd Photo

    Amanda Boyd

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Port Orchard, Olalla, Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Bremerton

    Amanda is equal parts dog person and people person; you and your dog are both important to her! She is committed to using progressive, force-free training methods to improve dog and human communication and relationships. After graduating from Olympia High School in WA state, she earned a Bachelor's degree in psychology from Stanford University and has a strong background in the art and science ...


  • Maura Porter Photo

    Maura Porter

    CPDT-KA, Mt Ida College Dog Trainer Certification graduate

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    South Shore, SouthCoast, 128 area

    Trainer of Low Confident Dogs. CPDT-KA Dog Trainer. Majority of client base with low-confident/reactive strong breeds. Goal is to train with respect and strength using force-free training. Weekly Reactive Dog walks. Basic and Advanced Obedience/Command work. Therapy dog (TD) prep, TD certification, CGC testing. CS works with area rescues and shelters evaluating their dogs and creating trainin...


  • Cassi Bee Photo

    Cassi Bee

    CPDT-KA

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    South Jersey, Central Jersey, Philadelphia

    Originally from New England, I now live in NJ with my partner and our cattle dog mix, Bugsy. I am a positive reinforcement dog trainer who works to help dogs better understand their people, and people to better understand their dogs using upbeat but important training plans focusing on foundation, reinforcement and pattern building. I also really enjoy teaching tricks and sports (for fun!) to t...


  • Jenn Gavin Photo

    Jenn Gavin

    CPDT-KA, FPPE

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, Cadillac, Baldwin, Ludington; Kent County, Ottawa County.

    Jenn Gavin, CPDT-KA, FPPE is the owner and founding trainer at A Pleasant Dog. She has been rescuing and training dogs for over twenty-five years. For the last ten years, Jenn has focused her practice on anxious and aggressive animals, and has become one of the most trusted trainers working with aggressive animals in our state. Jenn works extensively with veterinarians and veterinary behavioris...


  • Cynthia Stone Photo

    Cynthia Stone

    CPDT-KA, PTI

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Northshore of Louisiana (Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, Madisonville)

    Cynthia Stone, CPDT-KA has been working with dogs for 20+ years. She started with training both her and friends dogs, went on to working with various rescues, and then opened her own business. She has used her innate skills as an instructor to benefit not just the human-canine world, but also to serve as an instructor for Red Cross and PetTech, both human and canine CPR and First Aid. Cynthia ...


  • (Prestigious Pooch) Cora Wittekind-Williams Photo

    (Prestigious Pooch) Cora Wittekind-Williams

    Certified trainer (CPDT-KA) through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, FDM (Family Dog Mediator), Member of the Pet Professional Guild (PPG)

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Los Angeles, Santa Clarita, Pasadena, SFV

    Before starting her own training business (Prestigious Pooch) in 2012, Cora (CPDT-KA, FDM) worked in dog boarding/daycare facilities (in Washington first, then Southern California ) for over 8 years developing training programs to best suit dogs in that environment as well as providing one on one training to clients and their dogs in their homes. She volunteered with Alliance of Therapy dogs fo...


  • Chrissy Dullano Photo

    Chrissy Dullano

    VSA-CDT, APDT, PPG, IACP

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Jacksonville, FL

    I am a Victoria Stilwell Academy graduate where I earned my certified training credentials
    I am an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator
    I am certified in pet care health and wellness, and certified in dog and cat first-aid and CPR
    I am continuously studying and staying on top of the latest education opportunities
    My passion is trying to make an impact on reducing homeless dogs, s...


  • Kelly Citrin Photo

    Kelly Citrin

    CPDT-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Montgomery County, MD, including Rockville, Bethesda, Kensington, Wheaton, North Bethesda, Potomac, North Potomac, Gaithersburg, Silver Spring, Germantown, Burtonsville, Darnestown, Olney, Germantown. Also most of Anne Arundel County and NW Washington, DC

    Always passionate about animals, Kelly fell in love with her first pit bull in 2006. She began to volunteer at MCHS, and then MCASAC shelters, working with difficult to handle dogs, studying behavior – attending classes every Sunday - and training specific dogs to make them more adoptable. She also joined OPH rescue and was the lead for developing the rescue in Montgomery County, MD.In 2008, sh...


  • Cindy Smith Photo

    Cindy Smith

    CNWI

    Deaf dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    Sacramento County, Placer County, El Dorado County, Surrounding Areas, and Remote

    http://www.therightsteps.com/about_us.html


  • Elizabeth Staley Photo

    Elizabeth Staley

    CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Hampton, Smithfield, Newport News, Chesapeake, Zuni, Windsor, Norfolk

    Elizabeth has loved dogs her whole life. She grew up with a few mixed breeds but was given a Pomeranian in elementary school. A lack of knowledge lead to that dog being hit by a car when he slipped out of his harness. In Junior high a second Pomeranian joined the family and lived as a beloved pet until he was 15 years old. Once Elizabeth moved out and was on her own she rescued a beagle mix nam...


  • Andria Young Photo

    Andria Young

    International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers - Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) Certified Behavior Consultant Canine - Knowledge Assessed (CBCC) Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP) Family Dog Mediator (FDM)

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Serving all of Massachusetts and beyond, in person and virtual instruction

    Andria Young is one of only ten Certified Canine Behavior Consultants (CCPDT and IAABC) in the entire state of Massachusetts and one of 200 in the world. With her additional certification as a Fear Free Professional and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) Andria instructs all group classes, private lessons and behavior consults.

    When not assisting students, Andria enjoys con...


  • Nicole Levien Photo

    Nicole Levien

    Agility training, Puppy training

    Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Wallington, Paramus, Englewood, Teaneck, Leonia, Fort Lee, Fair Lawn, Edgewater, Hackensack, Bergenfield, Wykoff, Ridgewood, Mahwah, Tenafly, Montvale, Westwood, Ramsey, Closter. Lodi, Rutherford, Saddle Brook, Dumont, Waldwick, Oradell, Cliffside Park, Palisades Park, Glen Rock, Rutherford, Montclair, Bloomfield, Clifton, River Edge, Oakland, Franklin Lakes, Allendale, Alpine, Cresskill, Demarest, Emerson, Franklin Lakes, Hasbrouck Heights, Lyndhurst, Maywood, Midland park, North Arlington, Saddle River, Cedar Grove, Caldwell, Nutley, Hoboken, Jersey City, Secaucus, Weehawken, West New York, Paterson, Pompton Lakes,

    WE have a staff of qualified trainers with years and years of experience will all breeds of dogs. Our mission is to help you fall in love with working your dog and participating in fun activities with them.


  • Jason Johnson Photo

    Jason Johnson

    Aggressive dog training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Mesa

    Jason is a Professional Dog Trainer with a background as a Law Enforcement K9 Handler and has exceeded 17,000 dog training hours. For upwards of 6 years, he was a member of the National Police Canine Association (NPCA) and the National Police Bloodhound Association (NPBA).
    During this time, he worked with Patrol Dogs in Narcotic Detection and Suspect Apprehension and worked with Human Scent...


  • Kelly Bourgeois Photo

    Kelly Bourgeois

    CPDT-KA, CAP1, AKC CGC, APDT

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Lakes region of NH. Laconia, Gilford, Belmont, Alton, Meredith, Gilmanton, Moultonborough, Loudon, Center Harbor

    Kelly is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with two college degrees: A BA in Psychology with a focus in animal cognition, and an Associate in Animal Science. She is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge and Skills Assessed (CPDT-KSA). Which is a skill based certification that tests expert training and instruction skills through hands-on exercises. She is a CGC evaluator for...


  • Cait Patton Photo

    Cait Patton

    CPDT-KA, Fear Free Certified, CGC, Currently studying for PhD in veterinary medicine and behavioral health, working on obtaining CBCC-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Protection/guard dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, Herding training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    St. Louis (city, county, and areas of Illinois)

    I'm Cait! I've been working with dogs for 20 years now! I have big goals of helping people understand scientific based methods and the benefits of doing so. I have not always been a solely R+ trainer, and I believe my honest was and ability to have open conversations about this has opened a lot of doors to help bridge the misunderstanding of what R+ is and the types of dogs it will work for. I ...


  • Mary Price Photo

    Mary Price

    CPDT-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Phoenix Metropolitan and Surrounding Areas

    My name is Mary Price, the owner of MP Dog Training Academy. I have ten years of dog training experience with puppy training, dog obedience, behavior modification, and introduction to agility and rally. In my journey to become a certified dog trainer, through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), I have taken a variety of classes to reinforce and build upon my skills ...


  • M Cecilia Sternzon Photo

    M Cecilia Sternzon

    CPDT-KA, PPG Member, CGC Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    South Santa Clara County, CA; Milpitas, CA; Remote

    I'm a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), and Professional Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and Pet Professional Guild (PPG). With over 20 years of professional experience in dog training, I stay on top of the latest scientific discoveries in learning and behavior, and work to remain knowledgeable and up-to-date with consistent continuing education.


  • Vikki Bourgeois Photo

    Vikki Bourgeois

    CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, CTDI, FFCP

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    Lafayette, Broussard, Scott, Breaux Bridge, New Iberia, Carencro, Crowley, Sunset

    Vikki Bourgeois is the owner of Sit Happens Dog Training. She has over 15 years experience in the pet care industry where she developed a special interest in behavior modification training. She has a passion for working with fearful dogs and aggression.Vikki holds the prestigious title of Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), a title only 161 people hold worldwide. She is one of three...


  • Jessi Lane Photo

    Jessi Lane

    RVT, KPA-CTP, Family Dog Mediator, Certified Trick Dog Instructor, Certified CGC Evaluator, Completion of Master Dog Aggression Course

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Puppy training

    Oklahoma Metro Area, Oklahoma County, Cleveland County

    Jessi began her career in veterinary medicine in 2007. She worked in several emergency medicine and day practice facilities. She graduated from Oklahoma State University - OKC in 2010, receiving her Associates Degree in Veterinary Technology. She is also a nationally and state licensed Registered Veterinary Technician.

    Working in the veterinary medical field piqued her interest in hu...


  • Barbara Lombard Photo

    Barbara Lombard

    Agility training, Puppy training

    Snohomish and King County

    I have been a top Agility competitor in the USA since 2000. I competed on the AKC agility World Team traveling to Finland, Portugal and Germany earning two Silver medals. I owned and operated Turbo Charged Agility in Southern California for 15 years offering Agility classes, private lessons in home and at my facility. Now living in Washington State and offering classes at French Creek Pet re...


  • Kai Murphey Photo

    Kai Murphey

    Pet Tech CPR & First Aid (May 2022), Canine Good Citizen Evaluator (May 2023), Karen Prior Certified Training Partner (December 2023)

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Columbia, MO and Boone County, MO

    Owner/Founder of The Devoted Dog (April 2021). BS in Wildlife Conservation, MS in Animal Behavior and Neurobiology.

    I started working with dogs as a young teen fostering shy, feral and reactive dogs that needed help building trust in people before they could be homed. I then worked with birds of prey as a volunteer at The University of Minnesota Raptor Center where I was introduced to ...


  • Yvonne Feeney Photo

    Yvonne Feeney

    CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    Chicago

    I'm one of a handful of certified behavioral consultants in Chicago and have been invested in the rescue community since 2009.


  • Margaret Hughes Photo

    Margaret Hughes

    SF SPCA CTC, CPDT, AKC CGC, Trick Dog, ACT Evaluator

    Agility training

    Woodinville, Maltby, Bothell, Duvall, Redmond, Snohomish

    "Margaret Hughes brings her life-long love of dogs together with positive training techniques that both you and your dog will enjoy." Twenty+ years ago I wrote that sentence on my first advertising brochure. It still holds true today. I love training dogs but I love training people more. My dog training background is in obedience, family style dog training, behavior modification and aggressi...


  • Shir Limazati Photo

    Shir Limazati

    ABCDT, CPDT-KA

    Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Chicago

    When I was younger, I was always told " you only get one more chance". Even at a young age, I felt the pressure of having to get it right by the second time. As I went through life as an adult, I noticed so many names of companies called "second chance..." and it brought me back to that feeling of defeat when I was a child. I made it my mission to give humans and dogs as many chances as it t...


  • SAM Selim Photo

    SAM Selim

    IAABC, ABC, Animal Behavior Science, Aggression & Reactivity, Behavior Modification Training

    Aggressive dog training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    JOHNSTON COUNTY, Clayton & Surrounding Areas

    I am a 35-Year Veteran of Corporate world, as a Global Technology Executive, and a Boyscout from Childhood. My love for the Outdoors, Wilderness, Animals and Travels - has always been at the center of my Core & Spirit. I have stood in the Front & Center of many "Impressive" Boardrooms... closing major deals.. but at the end of every day - my biggest joy was standing in the middle of a Forest, o...


  • Judit Arroyo Photo

    Judit Arroyo

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Northside of Chicago

    Judit was only 17 years old when she found herself in over her head with her first dog, Puffy. Always a timid pup, at two years old he became very aggressive and reactive towards people and other dogs. Not willing to give up on her dog and not able to afford training Judit was determined to learn the art of dog training. In 2002 she launched her career as a professional dog trainer when he appl...


  • Becky Pesicka Photo

    Becky Pesicka

    CCPDT-KA, CNWI, NACSW PCO, AKC Scent Work Judge

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    San Luis Obispo county, including San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, and surrounding areas

    Dogtastic Training was started in 2011. After 4 years of working in a high volume open door shelter, Becky started Dogtastic Training to work with private owners one on one. She has worked in all almost areas of dog training and for years mostly did puppy classes, basic obedience classes, and reactivity/aggression privates. Now she specializes in Nose Work and has been a Certified Nose Work Ins...


  • Alexia Miller Photo

    Alexia Miller

    CPDT-KA, CDBC, IAABC-ADT, APDT CTDI, CCFC, PPG, CGC Evaluator, Pet Tech First Aid &CPR, LIMA and Fear Free Certified

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    Derry and surrounding towns, Dover and surrounding towns

    Hi, I'm Alexia and for more than 20 + years, as a dog trainer I have devoted myself to coaching clients
    about the nature of dogs i.e., canine body language and energy- as it relates to effective training for both
    dogs and humans alike. This knowledge transforms relationships. My focus is on creating joyful and
    respectful relationships between people and the animals that enrich our l...


  • Julie Westphal Photo

    Julie Westphal

    CVT, Elite Level 3 Fear Free Certified Professional, AKC CGC & Tricks Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    I serve the Greater Phoenix area currently, but travel across the country, so also have many states I work in as I go. :-)

    See above responses and ask! I love what I do and helping others!


  • Heather Adams Photo

    Heather Adams

    Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner and Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Western New York, which includes the following counties; Genesee, Erie, Niagara, Wyoming, Monroe, Orleans

    I graduated from the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior in 2008. Since then I've had the great joy of helping hundreds of families enjoy their dogs more by making sure they actually listen! It's been very rewarding along the way.I love teaching both dogs and people in our programs that help families with things like jumping, pulling on the leash and coming when they're calle...


  • Casey Coughlin Photo

    Casey Coughlin

    LLA Course Graduate

    Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Puppy training

    Hartford County and some surrounding towns

    Casey Coughlin specializes in solving difficult behavior problems, positively starting puppies, and building strong relationships with your dog. She loves working with reactive and sensitive dogs.Casey has been surrounded by animals since childhood and grew up competing nationally in multiple equestrian events. She attended college at the University of Findlay for Equestrian Studies and later w...


  • Jo Ferraris Photo

    Jo Ferraris

    BS Animal Science, KPA CTP, CNWI, FFCP Trainer

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Puppy training

    South County, Washington County

    Jo graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a BS in Animal Science Pre-Veterinary Track. She is also a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Professional Trainer, Certified Nose Work Instructor, and Fear Free Trainer.

    Jo has been training dogs on a professional level since 2013. She has worked with hundreds of dogs of varying ages and breeds and can apply these previous experiences t...


  • Julia Lane Photo

    Julia Lane

    CPDT-KA

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Bartlett, Batavia, Campton Hills, Downers Grove, Elgin, Geneva, Maple Park, Naperville, St. Charles, South Elgin, Streamwood, Wayne, West Chicago, Wheaton, Winfield

    Julia Lane, CPDT-KA, has been a professional dog trainer specializing in agility, obedience & reactivity for over 15 years. She owns Spot On K9 Sports, LLC, a 17,500 sq. ft. dog sports training facility featuring group classes, private lessons, seminars & agility trials. She also provides in-home dog training.


  • Alexis Brinkley Photo

    Alexis Brinkley

    CCS

    Deaf dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Greater Seattle Area, Lynnwood, Shoreline, Mill Creek

    Alexis grew up with dogs and from a young age she always knew she wanted to work with them as a career. At the age of just eight years old, she was training basic obedience and tricks to her two rescued Chihuahuas, and now is trialing her dog Molly (a hound mix) in multiple sports. She has learned from some of the best positive reinforcement trainers in Washington State.  

    Alexis love...


  • Lela Schreiber Photo

    Lela Schreiber

    CPDT-KA CPCFT

    Agility training, Puppy training

    Located in Knoxville MD close to Frederick MD, Harpers Ferry WV, Lovettsville Va and surrounding areas.

    I have been a Dog Trainer for 11 years in the Frederick MD area. I live and train with 4 dogs and participate in a variety of sports including FastCAT, Lure Coursing, Conformation, Rally, Agility, and Nosework. I particularly enjoy geeking out over Nosework and Canine Fitness.


  • Eden Zook Photo

    Eden Zook

    AS, BA, CPDT-KA, ABCDT, CGC, APDT

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Seacoast New Hampshire, Northeastern Massachusetts, and Southern Maine Seacoast areas

    Hi, my name is Eden Zook. I am currently the owner/trainer/behavior consultant for Canine Karma LLC for the past six years. Previously I was known in the Seacoast area for being the Manager of Behavior and Training at the New Hampshire SPCA, during which time I successfully ran a training and behavior modification program for the public's dogs and shelter dogs. That work included, but was not...


  • Lisa Corcoran Photo

    Lisa Corcoran

    Victoria Stilwell Academy Certified Dog Trainer (VSA-CDT)

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    McLennan County, TX area (Waco, Woodway, Hewitt, Robinson, Lorena, McGregor, Beverly Hills, etc)

    Lisa Corcoran is the owner and operator of The Confident Hound in Waco, Texas, where she has provided force-free dog training since 2020. She is a graduate with distinction from the Victoria Stilwell Academy for Dog Training & Behavior and holds both a bachelor's and master's degree in psychology. Not only is she qualified to understand and train your furry best friend, but she also has a deep ...


  • Chris Miara Photo

    Chris Miara

    Certified Dog Behavior Consultant

    Aggressive dog training, Deaf dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Lexington, Louisville, Nicholasville, Paris, Georgetown KY

    I started training and showing my own dogs in 1984 and over the years my dogs have earned titles in AKC obedience, tracking, agility, tricks. I started teaching other people to train their dogs in 2000. My methods have evolved over the years and I try to keep current in continuing education. I am also a presenter for the Family Paws program. I have a Master's Degree in Behavioral Science and w...


  • Melissa Bishop Photo

    Melissa Bishop

    KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA, TAGTeach Level 1

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Fort Collins, Front Range of CO

    Melissa Bishop began training dogs as a teenager, first in junior showmanship/conformation, and then in obedience. While living in Europe after college, she found and fell in love with the sport of dog agility. In addition to competing with seven different dogs of her own over the last 25 years, she has enjoyed teaching other people and their dogs about agility, rally, canine manners and tricks...


  • Elisa Martinez Photo

    Elisa Martinez

    AKC CGC evaluator. Zoom Room certified trainer

    Reactive dog training, Agility training, Puppy training

    Santa Clarita and Bakersfield

    My name is Elisa and I fell in love with dog training when I was raising my cattle dog who is now 5 years old. My mission is to help people make sense of all of the conflicting information out there and learn how to train their dogs with kindness. Communication is a two way street and I'm here to help you understand your dog a little better.


  • Julia Mendes Photo

    Julia Mendes

    Wag! Certified trainer

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Board and train, In home training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Chicago area and surrounding suburbs

    As a lifelong animal lover, I finally decided to take the leap and start my own training business. I am especially passionate about rescuing animals (currently I have two rescues of my own) and exploring the many benefits of the animal-human connection.


  • Pam Tobias Photo

    Pam Tobias

    CPDT-KA, CGC Evaluator

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Agility training, Off leash training, Puppy training

    Austin and surrounding Hill Country

    I've been training dogs for for 8 years, all at The Canine Center for Training & Behavior. I am currently owned by a rescued German Shepherd Dog who makes me a better dog trainer every day. Our philosophy is "Life is short, have fun with your dog" I teach sports - agility, hiking with your dog, dog powered sports. I also specialize in reactive and aggressive dogs, retraining their brains to mak...


Sniffspot’s list of dog trainers for Agility training is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Agility training, we received 5845 total votes, resulting in 631 dog trainers who focus on Agility training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Agility training listed first.

Dog trainers on this list for Agility training are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Keiko Swanberg, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Agility training. Keiko Swanberg’s favorite part of their job is: Seeing so many smiles through working with about 90 dogs (and 90+ humans) with different personalities every week!.

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Keiko Swanberg, as well as the other dog trainers on this Agility training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog.

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See the Best Agility Training Trainers by City

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Frequently Asked Questions About Agility Training

What is agility training for dogs?

Agility training involves teaching dogs to navigate a series of obstacles, such as jumps, tunnels, and weave poles, in a timed course. This type of training enhances a dog's physical fitness, coordination, and responsiveness while providing mental stimulation.

Why is it important to choose an experienced agility trainer?

An experienced agility trainer is essential because they can guide your dog through complex obstacle courses, ensuring safety and maximizing performance. They also help in developing your dog’s speed, precision, and confidence, which are crucial for successful agility training.

How does Sniffspot select the top agility trainers?

We select the top agility trainers based on 6024 from dog owners and agility experts. This process highlights 144 trainers with a proven track record in agility training and expertise in navigating obstacle courses.

What qualifications should a top agility trainer have?

Leading agility trainers often hold certifications such as CPDT-KA, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, ABCDT, CGC Evaluator, demonstrating their proficiency in agility training techniques. Agility dog trainers also usually have dog agility experience, either as a judge or handler.

Who is the leading agility trainer and why?

Keiko Swanberg is recognized as the top agility trainer due to their 255. They are known for their expertise in dog obstacle courses and reinforcement behavior, making them the preferred choice for agility enthusiasts.

What skills do agility trainers focus on?

Agility trainers focus on various skills, including obstacle navigation, speed, and accuracy. For example, Keiko Swanberg emphasizes: I offer fear-free, force-free, positive dog training and behavior modification based on behavioral science..

What training methods are commonly used in agility training?

Common methods in agility training include positive reinforcement, clicker training, and structured practice sessions. It’s important for the dog to have fun and secure their trust with their handler.

How do I choose the right agility trainer for my dog?

To choose the right agility trainer, consider their experience with agility courses, their certifications such as CPDT-KA, CPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, ABCDT, CGC Evaluator, and their training methods.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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