Paws-A-Tive Dog Training

Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer

Hi, I'm Jennifer!

I started training dogs at a very young age. When I was eight, I got my first dog, Dolly, and begged my mom to buy me Training Dogs the Woodhouse Way by Barbara Woodhouse. I spent countless hours watching Woodhouse on TV and practicing "walkies" in the yard with Dolly. Fast forward about 12 years, and I found myself with my next great love—Samson, who was anything but easy.

Samson, a Great Dane/Lab/Pitbull mix, was a challenge from the start. Protective and fiercely loyal, he was a one-woman dog with severe dog aggression issues. Managing his behavior was an ongoing learning experience, and even in his senior years, he remained a handful. Despite the challenges, Samson lived to 12 years old, leaving behind two beloved companions: Delilah, an Australian Shepherd, and Rosie, a Golden Retriever/Lab mix.

Delilah was an energetic Aussie who was never without a ball in her mouth. She struggled with fearfulness, but through patience and training, she overcame it in most situations. She lived 11 wonderful years, always ready for a game of fetch. Then there was Rosie—the dog who truly solidified my passion for training. Rosie taught me everything: canine body language, dog-dog interactions, and how to control situations with calm energy rather than force. She was my greatest teacher, effortlessly guiding the many foster dogs that passed through our home. Rosie had an incredible intuition for handling any situation, and in turn, she taught me how to do the same. She passed away at 13, but not before raising another angel—Cassie.

Today, I share my life with three rescue dogs and one naughty beagle: Cassie (a 11-year-old Yellow Lab), Doc (a 7-year-old German Shepherd/Great Pyrenees mix), Tipsy (a 4.5-year-old Australian Shepherd) and Maggie (a 2-year-old naughty beagle). Cassie and Doc have earned their AKC Novice Trick Titles and are currently working toward their Intermediate Trick Titles. Cassie is also training for her Rally Novice Title. Maggie is working on being the best naughty beagle around, and Tispy is a new rescue so she is working on adjusting right now,

Of course, I couldn't do this without my two-legged support system—my husband, Tom, and my children, Michael, Nikki, and Kristen. They’ve stood by me through this incredible journey, enduring my endless discussions on dog behavior and training. I’m endlessly grateful for their support.

As a humane, reward-based trainer, I focus on all aspects of a dog’s well-being, including exercise, enrichment, diet, and the bond between dog and owner. I’m a graduate of Susan Friedman’s Living and Learning with Animals course and a professional member of the Pet Professional Guild and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Additionally, I dedicate my time to Golden Gate Lab Rescue, helping dogs in need in any way I can.

Reward-Based Training

Bond Strengthening

My training approach is centered around positive reinforcement, focusing on strengthening the bond between you and your dog. I believe that every action and interaction with your dog can make a positive impact on their behavior and well-being.

Customized Programs

I offer customized training programs tailored to your dog's specific needs, promoting sustainable behavior and long-term results. Each program is designed to address your dog's individual requirements while considering the environmental impact.

Enrichment Activities

Enrichment activities play a vital role in my training approach, providing reusable and sustainable solutions for mental and physical stimulation. These activities are designed to keep your dog engaged, happy, and fulfilled.