Background
Diana has been involved in dog sports for over a decade - training, competing, and teaching. She is a patient, dedicated instructor and passionate advocate for positive, force-free dog training.
In the Ring
Diana and her dogs have achieved multiple Obedience and Rally titles in American Kennel Club (AKC) and United Kennel Club (UKC). Her first dog overcame behavioral issues to become the 21st German Shepherd to earn the AKC (Rally Advanced Excellent) RAE2 title and was ranked in the Front & Finish Top Ten German Shepherds in AKC Rally for four years.
Diana enjoys helping steward the obedience and rally shows, and helping judge Rally Fun Matches and 4-H competitions. She is working on the requirements to become an AKC Rally and Obedience Judge.
Outside the Ring
Diana participated in Therapy Dog volunteering with Therapy Dog International (TDI), visiting Assisted Living facilities. She volunteered for Washington German Shepherd Rescue, adopting dogs, doing home checks, transporting, and fostering rescued dogs.
She lives with her husband, her eight-year-old dog, Valen, and her two-year-old dog, Naia.
Certifications:
IAABC-ADT \| CPDT-KA \| FFCP \| FDM \| LSHC-S \| AKC CGC Evaluator \| CTDI
Dog training services include
- Aggressive dog training
- Deaf dog training
- Reactive dog training
- Off leash training
- Puppy training
More info about Diana Simonsen's dog training:
Private Training
Some dogs learn better training one-on-one.
Enjoy training customized to your unique training needs. Our Private Training focuses on specific skills and progress at your dog's pace. We offer unique options that let you choose the training format best suited to your needs, schedule, and goals.
Class Options
In-person private training classes are offered at our large training facility in Carnation, WA.
Online private classes allow students from any location to train with us!
Special class arrangements can include outings to practice skills at local parks, dog-friendly stores, and in your neighborhood in King County (including Duvall, Fall City, Redmond, Kirkland, Woodinville, Bellevue, Sammamish, Issaquah, Mercer Island, Seattle)
Skills we train
Help puppies and newly adopted dogs thrive in their new home
Politely interact with adults and kids in your home and on your walks
Walk together by distractions such as other dogs and people
Create reliable recalls
Have trustworthy housetraining
Develop safe and fun play skills and off-leash skills
Practice skills for Rally Obedience, Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog
Train and evaluate for AKC and Do More With Your Dog Trick Dog titles!
Group Classes
Our small-size group classes are offered at our spacious training arena in Carnation, WA.
We offer Rally Obedience, Heeling Games, AKC Canine Good Citizen, AKC Community Canine (CGCA), Urban Canine (CGCU), and training for the Temperament Test (ATT) and Therapy Dog.
Behavioral issue focus:
With additional training and certifications, we offer positive reinforcement-based behavior modification for dogs with Big Feelings about people, dogs, noises, and being left alone.
Dog training methods:
We use force-free, positive-reinforcement-based training to help you:
Build a good relationship with your dog.
Teach your dog better alternatives to unwanted behaviors.
Reduce frustration by setting you and your dog up for success.
Benefit from up-to-date, modern learning theory from a certified trainer.
How does it work?
We help you make the behavior you want your dog to do simple and easy. We employ the most up-to-date dog training methods to get the outcome you're looking for without physical corrections or aversives. When working with dogs who may be fearful or anxious, we use low-stress techniques to safely and effectively modify your animal's behavior.
Our commitment to ethical and humane training extends beyond your dog. While coaching you through your dog's training process, you can count on us to be encouraging, professional, and respectful.
Why I became a dog trainer:
I switched careers from IT Manager to Dog Trainer because I enjoy working with people to solve challenges, overcome behavioral issues, achieve training goals, and have fun with their dogs.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
I get paid to help people smile, laugh, and have fun with their dogs.
My #1 dog training tip:
Be clear and consistent with your cues, and give your dog the patience that you would want for yourself.
See The Best Dog Trainers In Seattle
See The Best Dog Trainers In Other Cities Near Seattle
- Augusta, GA
- Boston, MA
- Frederick, MD
- Huntsville, AL
- Naperville, IL
- New York, NY
- Orlando, FL
- Peoria, IL
- Raleigh, NC
- Sparks, NV
See The Best Dog Trainers By Type In Seattle

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
Read more