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The Best Reactive Dog Trainers in San Diego, CA of 2025

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David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

Welcome to the Sniffspot list of top-rated dog trainers for Reactive dog training in San Diego, CA. Based on feedback and votes from our Reactive dog training community, we've curated a list of top-rated trainers in the San Diego area.

  • Sarah Surritt Photo

    Sarah Surritt

    KPACTP, CPDT, CGC Evaluator

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

    Carlsbad, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, Vista, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, Clairemont, Sorrento Valley, Escondido, Poway, Oceanside, Leucadia, Cardiff, Rancho Bernardo, Mira Mesa, Pacific Beach, San Marcos

    Sarah was that kid growing up who was always bringing home strays and begging her mom to let her keep them. Ever do that? Thankfully, her folks typically said yes and she grew up surrounded by animals.

    Until she began volunteering at the San Diego Humane Society and what was the onset of her training career in 2001, she didn't realize there was a different way to train and build a gre...


  • Ashley Cipolletti Photo

    Ashley Cipolletti

    CPDT-KA, BA Psychology

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

    Point Loma, ocean beach, pacific beach, hillcrest, north park, South Park, downtown, little Italy, Clairemont, La Jolla, Scripps Ranch, La Mesa, Chula Vista, National City, San Diego county

    I am a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and I specialize in training former rescue and shelter dogs. I'm passionate about giving a voice to the voiceless and strive to make the world a better place for canines and their human companions.


  • Lindsey Lieberman Photo

    Lindsey Lieberman

    CCPDT, CBCC, FFCP

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, In home training

    Serving the dogs and people of Vista, Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, and San Marcos

    Lindsey has been working with dogs professionally for over 15 years. She got her start in shelter dog behavior and training, which provided her with the unique experience of working with dogs of all types, temperaments, and histories.
    Lindsey is passionate about helping cultivate peace for dogs and their families by combining modern, fear-free dog training methods with Mindfulness practi...


  • Brandi Hutsell Photo

    Brandi Hutsell

    CCPDT-KA, Canine Good Citizen Evaluator

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

    La Jolla, Point Loma, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Downtown San Diego, Mission Hills, Bankers Hill, Hillcrest, North Park, South Park, Golden Hill, Normal Heights, Kensington, Tierrasanta, Mission Valley, Kearny Mesa, Clairemont, Bay Park, Carmel Valley, Sorrento Valley

    Brandi Hutsell is a co-owner and certified dog trainer with Instinct San Diego. Brandi loves using modern, evidence-backed learning techniques to help humans and dogs learn to communicate clearly with one
    another, and seeing the strong, positive relationships that grow from that mutual understanding. She is a kind, patient teacher who readily adapts her coaching and communication style to m...


  • Leeyah Wiseman Photo

    Leeyah Wiseman

    School For The Dogs Certified Professional Trainer, Separation Anxiety Shadowing Program Certificate, Advanced Separation Anxiety Shadowing Program Certificate

    Reactive dog training, In home training, Puppy training

    San Diego

    Leeyah is a certified dog trainer and completed a rigorous 6-month apprenticeship studying animal behavior and applying science based, positive reinforcement training techniques. She's passionate about utilizing gentle training methods to help anxious dogs and their people. And is known to go above and beyond in order to give her clients the best chance possible.

    Through completing hu...


  • Beth Frumkin Photo

    Beth Frumkin

    Former guide dog as assistance dog trainer. Over 20 yrs experience

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

    San Diego County

    Hi . My name is Beth and I am a dog trainer and behaviorist with 22 years experience. I have trained Guide Dogs for the Blind, Asistance Dogs for the Disabled, was the puppy group leader for Guide Dogs of America. I have trained thousands of dogs privately. I have recently published a kindle book chronicling obedience and behavioral training as well as many articles. I work on the train the tra...


  • Lou Alicea Photo

    Lou Alicea

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

    Hello everyone! I'm Lou, a Behavioral Specialist at Mango Dogs San Diego, serving our vibrant city and its surrounding areas. I own a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois named Stoney. She helps me with working out behavioral issues with all my clients and she will show you how awesome your dog(s) could be. Years ago I struggled with my dog Doja, she was reactive and aggressive towards both dogs and hum...


  • Anna Ashmore Photo

    Anna Ashmore

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    With over a decade of experience in dog training, Anna emphasizes balanced methods and positive reinforcement. She studied at the Animal Behavioral College and has a background in Behavioral Psychology, aiming to foster stronger bonds between dogs and their owners. Anna is experienced with various breeds and behavioral challenges, Anna is also AKC certified.


  • Eduardo Bayardo Photo

    Eduardo Bayardo

    Aggressive dog training, Board and train, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    Eduardo is a balanced dog trainer who believes dogs succeed when we combine positive reinforcement techniques with firm, yet gentle guidance. He possesses three years of practical experience addressing a wide range of dog behavioral issues and two years of experience in specialized dog scent work for federal law enforcement. Lalo's love for dogs, genuine passion for dog training, and expertise ...


  • Aimee Burton- Owner Photo

    Aimee Burton- Owner

    Aggressive dog training, In home training, Protection/guard dog training, Reactive dog training, Service dog training, Puppy training

    Aimee was born and raised in San Diego and is the daughter of a veterinarian. Her mother ran and operated their 3 veterinary hospitals where she grew up helping out after school with the family business. She also grew up with many other types of animals. Goats, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens, turkeys, ducks, rabbits and horses that were on her grandparents' small farm in Ramona, where she spent he...


  • Mason Cameron Photo

    Mason Cameron

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

    Mason is a dog trainer and behavior consultant with Instinct San Diego. Mason regularly works with a wide range of breeds and temperaments, and is skilled at complex behavior modification for fear, aggression, and anxiety issues, as well as life skills and puppy development. Mason is a Karen Pryor Academy Graduate and a L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator. Prior to working with Instinct, Mason previou...


  • Emma Castor Photo

    Emma Castor

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

    Emma's experience with dogs began as a volunteer at a local rescue in 2018, working primarily with former street dogs from Mexico. By serving as a foster, adoption coordinator, and volunteer trainer, she became adept at helping dogs and their new families through the transition of rehoming. She also gained valuable experience with street dogs and the behaviors typical of their unique background...


  • Jacquelyn Court Photo

    Jacquelyn Court

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

    Jacquelyn has been a long-time animal advocate and began training dogs professionally in 2016. She earned her bachelor's Degree from SDSU with a minor in Psychology, furthering her interest in the brain and how animals think.


  • Gonzalo Dremoniz Photo

    Gonzalo Dremoniz

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

    Hello, My name is Gonzalo. I specialize in building happier human-dog relationships utilizing your dog's favorite rewards (toys, play, praise, food, freedom, etc.) and eliminating unwanted behaviors. My dog training sessions are about educating humans first. You will get a clear plan for your goals and learn the fundamentals of teaching/training your dog. For me there is nothing more satisfying...


  • Tom Fulcher Photo

    Tom Fulcher

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

    Tom is a United States Marine Corps Veteran and expert dog trainer. His extensive knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques comes from his years of intensive study on dog training, attending seminars and workshops, and working with some of the best trainers in the country.Tom's passion for working with dogs and dedication in helping others develop a positive and fulfilling relationship ...


  • Carol Harris Photo

    Carol Harris

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

    Carol has loved animals all her days and has devoted her professional life to animal studies, training and behavior modification. Carol holds a certification in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington and has studied under James Ha, CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist), Ph.D., one of the foremost animal behaviorists Since the early 1990s, Carol is been a highly-regarded...


  • Michael Harris Photo

    Michael Harris

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

    Michael earned degrees in Life and Physical Sciences, and earned the certification for Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington. He participates with Carol in conducting research projects with Dr. Ha, providing scientific and mathematical expertise and support. Before joining Carol as The Educated Pet's office manager, assistant trainer and behaviorist in 2012, Michael spent 30...


  • Ashley Larsen Photo

    Ashley Larsen

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

    Ashley Larsen, also known as 'Larsen', started working with dog shelters and rescue barns in 2007. Fascinated by the influence of nature via nurture, Larsen obtained her Bachelors in Neuropsychology at UC Berkeley. Using a scientific lens, she assesses the whole dog by looking at what impacts behavior, such as genetics, environment, needs, and neurodevelopment.


  • Sara Maguire Photo

    Sara Maguire

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

    Sara is a wonderful dog trainer and animal lover. She has extensive experience in specialty behavior training such as: house manners, barking, separation anxiety, fearfulness, aggression, leash reactivity and more.Sara has worked with dogs professionally for over 20 years including: competing in confirmation and obedience, preforming behavior evaluations for off-leash play, dog husbandry and ba...


  • Amanda Martin Photo

    Amanda Martin

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

    For over two decades, coaching and educating people has always been a passion of Amanda's. Over the years, Amanda has realized there was something else she needed to do in life. She needed to not just help people but also make more of a difference in animals' lives. Human or non-human, Amanda believes we all deserve a chance at being our best selves, and with a little help and confidence buildi...


  • Tomas Natterstad Photo

    Tomas Natterstad

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

    Tomas Natterstad
    Owner, Founder, & Trainer
    From before Tomas can remember, animals have been his biggest passion. This passion drove him to begin his career in the animal care and behavior industry in 2009 in various shelters throughout the country. During this time, Tomas decided to complete a comprehensive course to get my dog training certification.

    In 2019, Tomas decided...


  • Alex Pederson Photo

    Alex Pederson

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

    As the previous general manager of Pack Method Prep in 2019, Alex was driven headfirst into the dog training world. She applied her knowledge to her own dog that struggled with fear aggression and reactivity and after engulfing herself in the industry has become a certified dog trainer herself.


  • Zoe Stathis Photo

    Zoe Stathis

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

    Zoe is the puppet master behind Pack Method Prep. She has been training dogs professionally for over a decade and is one of only 4 certified behavioral consultants in San Diego County. Throughout her career Zoe has achieved a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Syracuse University, assisted in growing and managing a startup dog daycare, expanded a small local training company into The...


  • Cassidy Stolte Photo

    Cassidy Stolte

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

    Cassidy is a dog trainer at Instinct San Diego who is comfortable working alongside dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments. Cassidy worked at a dog daycare before moving into teaching private and group training classes. She is skilled at obedience, manners, puppy development, life skills, and behavior issues including fear, anxiety, and reactivity. Cassidy is a compassionate and enthusiasti...


  • Dave Tann Photo

    Dave Tann

    Aggressive dog training, Reactive dog training, Puppy training

    As a San Diego Dog Trainer, I offer positive, customized, low-aversion Dog Training and Puppy Training for you and your dog.I help dog owners to improve the relationship with and behavior of, their dogs, leading to a balanced and happy household.I believe in Dog Training with patience, praise, and science showing your dog how to be a calm, obedient, and happy family member.I believe in helping ...


  • Erin Vejar Photo

    Erin Vejar

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

    I started formally training dogs in 2006 after spending time volunteering with a local rescue group. I hung out at adoption events practicing basic training with the dogs in between meetings with adopters, and I loved seeing the adopters' eyes light up when they saw that the dogs could follow basic training cues. I decided to take my first formal training program through Animal Behavior College...


  • Suzanne Veta Photo

    Suzanne Veta

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

    A light-skinned woman with long, curly grey hair wearing a purple polo shirt sits in front of a swimming pool with three rescue dogs facing various directionsHi, I'm Suzanne! I am a former diplomat and lawyer, now a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) with a passion for improving the lives of dogs and the people who love them. I first got into dog training when I started fostering dogs...


  • Manuel Villanueva Photo

    Manuel Villanueva

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

    Training Director, Manuel Villanueva, is one of the most sought-after dog trainers in the United States and beyond. Manuel's career started when he was just 18 years old (over 40 years of experience) and he specialized in training working breeds such as Dobermans, Rottweilers, and Shepherds. Manuel was one of the few trainers to study under Mr. Fon Johnson, a pioneer in the dog training world, ...


  • Bailey Wilson Photo

    Bailey Wilson

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

    Bailey is a United States Army Veteran and former Explosive Detection Canine Handler. Through this work, he gained a deeper understanding of canine behavior and psychology. Training and handling highly skilled dogs has allowed him to recognize the most effective training methods to better communicate with dogs, build stronger relationships, and achieve desired training outcomes.

    His ne...


  • Julia Wurster Photo

    Julia Wurster

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

    Julia started working with dogs in 2016 while earning her bachelors degree in Cognitive Science at the University of Southern California. She was fascinated with behavior and learning theory, so opted to follow her passion into a career in dog training. Julia entered the field with Little Angels Service Dogs, training all types of assistance skills such as public access, task training and scent...


Sniffspot’s top-rated list of dog trainers for Reactive dog training in San Diego, CA is based on rankings from our community of dog owners as well as the general public. For Reactive dog training, we received 388 total votes, resulting in 30 dog trainers who focus on Reactive dog training. Our top-ranked dog trainers are listed in order of votes, with the top-ranked trainer for Reactive dog training listed first.

Dog trainers for Reactive dog training on this list are certified by CPDT-KA, FDM, or another trusted organization. We're proud to feature Sarah Surritt, who has been voted the top dog trainer for Reactive dog training in San Diego, CA. Sarah Surritt’s favorite part of their job is: I love teaching people that giving dogs more CHOICES through science-based training leads to success and some really wonderful light bulb moments with owners and their pups- all resulting in a wonderful bond..

At Sniffspot, we prioritize trust and expertise. Sarah Surritt, as well as the other dog trainers on this Reactive dog training list, ensures they bring the highest standards of care and training to your dog. Sarah Surritt encourages owners with this dog training tip: Teach your dog to WANT to do what you want him to do..

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Frequently Asked Questions About Reactive Dog Training in San Diego

How were the leading Reactive dog training trainers in San Diego determined?

The best Reactive dog training trainers in San Diego were identified based on 388 from local residents, highlighting those who excel in their field and are highly rated by dog owners in the area.

What are the key services offered by top Reactive dog trainers in San Diego?

In San Diego, prominent trainers like Sarah Surritt offer a variety of specialized services tailored to address specific behavioral issues. Their services are designed to meet the diverse needs of dogs in the region.

What qualifications do top Reactive dog trainers in San Diego possess?

Leading trainers in San Diego for Reactive dog training hold certifications such as CPDT-KA, FFCP, CGC Evaluator, CCPDT-KA, CPDT, showcasing their dedication to maintaining high standards in professional dog training.

What is the most valuable training advice from Sarah Surritt for San Diego dogs?

Sarah Surritt emphasizes that the most crucial advice for Reactive dog training training is Teach your dog to WANT to do what you want him to do..This insight is vital for improving your dog’s behavior in San Diego.

How do trainers in San Diego keep their skills current?

San Diego trainers stay updated by participating in ongoing education and certification programs, such as CPDT-KA, FFCP, CGC Evaluator, CCPDT-KA, CPDT. They also engage with local shelters and community events to refine their skills.

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David Adams photo

David Adams

July 10, 2024

Dog Trainers

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  • Sniffspot: Portland's Best Private Dog Parks thumbnail

    Sniffspot: Portland's Best Private Dog Parks

    Ready to discover Portland's best dog parks? Whether you're looking for a public park or the unique experience of a private Sniffspot, this guide has you covered. We'll help you find the perfect spot for your pup, with tips on what to bring, how to prepare, and even understanding dog body language. Plus, we'll explore some top Portland dog parks, including public and Sniffspot options, so you can plan your next dog-friendly adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    German Shepherd Dog: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Labrador Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    Labrador Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • Golden Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners thumbnail

    Golden Retriever: Breed Facts, Experience and Tips from 9K+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide thumbnail

    American Staffordshire Terrier: Your Complete Guide

    Think American Staffordshire Terriers are tough? Think again. While their muscular build might intimidate some, these dogs are known for their playful and loyal personalities. This guide draws on the experience of nearly 10,000 AmStaff owners to reveal the truth about this often misunderstood breed. Want to learn more about caring for an American Staffordshire Terrier? You're in the right place.

  • Australian Shepherd Facts: Breed Info & Care Guide thumbnail

    Australian Shepherd Facts: Breed Info & Care Guide

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.

Top dog rescues in the US