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Certified dog trainer
Dayna M. Villa
Dayna M. Villa

Dayna Villa

Dayna's journey into the world of dog training began when she volunteered at her local shelters and rescue groups. Over the years, she has fostered numerous cats and dogs, which has helped her gain valuable insights into their behavior. She has also worked as the Director of Operations at an animal shelter, where her responsibilities included managing adoptions, intake, and Behavior & Training Services.

Training Philosophy

Dayna's expertise lies in implementing training methods that prioritize relationships through reinforcement-based techniques. She strives to ensure that her training approach is humane, and she utilizes the Least Intrusive and Minimally Aversive (LIMA) hierarchy to achieve the desired results.

Services

  • Tailored training sessions (virtual and in-person)
  • Whistle Recall Training
  • Board & Train
  • Animal Shelter Behavioral or Operations Consulting
  • Pet Nutrition
  • Holistic Care

Certifications

Dayna is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) and a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CBCC-KA). She has also completed several courses, including the Aggression in Dogs Master Course, the Enrichment Framework Master Class, the Really Real Relaxation PRO course, as well as being a Certified Whistle Recall Instructor.

Specializations

Dayna specializes in working with dogs of all ages, breeds, and temperaments, including those with disabilities such as deafness, blindness, and mobility limitations. She also has a particular interest in working with dogs that display fear or aggression towards people.

Training Methods

Dayna uses reinforcement-based training methods, which focus on rewarding desired behaviors. She also utilizes the Least Intrusive and Minimally Aversive (LIMA) hierarchy, which means she chooses the most humane and effective methods to modify problem behaviors.

Customer Reviews

  • "Dayna has provided nothing but incredible insight and training for our reactive pup. I am so appreciative of the time spent to help us learn how to best support our dog and understand his behaviors, especially at a time when we felt incredibly lost and hopeless." - [Client Name]
  • "Dayna had made training easy! She is patient, engaging, and very knowledgeable. She has helped my dog tremendously by building her confidence and making training fun." - [Client Name]
  • "We can not rave enough about Dayna. Our fearful dog came out of his shell instantly when he met Dayna and our lives are forever changed." - [Client Name]

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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