About Caroline

A person with curly dark hair and rings on their fingers hugging a large, light-colored dog outdoors on a snowy day. The person and dog are close together, with the person's face partially hidden behind the dog's head. Bright blue sky with a few clouds is in the background.

As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) with a degree in Education and Behavioral Neuroscience from The University of Texas, I ground my work in both learning theory and canine behavior science. These foundations guide my teaching style with human clients and allow me to create training plans that support both the dog and their parents as a team. My approach is holistic, adaptable, and centered on understanding the “why” behind the behavior.

I’ve been working professionally with dogs since 2017, when I started my own dog walking business, Lotus Pet Sitting. Spending my days with so many different dogs gave me a deep understanding of their individual personalities and how those traits shape their communication with us, something that continues to be one of my favorite parts of dog training.

In 2020, I shifted my focus to working with shy, nervous, and reactive dogs. I quickly learned how meaningful this is to me and how much these dogs benefit from patient, thoughtful support. Recognizing their fears helped me connect with them in a more intentional way, and those small moments of trust building into real progress are still some of the most rewarding parts of my job.

My methodology is science-based, fear-free, and rooted in building genuine trust between dogs and their parents.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to discuss your options. In-home consultations are also available for $50 (45 minutes). The in-home consultation is included in the Day Training Pathway and will be fully refunded if you enroll in that service.

  • Boarding is available to current daycare clients and select training clients. Feel free to reach out to see if your dog is eligible.

  • I don’t offer board and trains for a couple of reasons. Boarding can be a more stressful time for dogs compared to when they’re at home, and learning is most effective when dogs feel relaxed and secure.

    Additionally, many common challenges show up in the home or neighborhood, which is why my day training services take place in your own environment.

  • Daycare and Day Training services are a great way to provide enrichment for your dog while you’re at work or busy during the day.

    You are not required to be home during these services, though you are always welcome to be.

    Most families use a keypad or lockbox for access, and I am also happy to work with a house key.

  • Currently, I teach Puppy Playgroup at The Grange in Issaquah and assist my mentor, Keiko Swanberg of Zen Dog Seattle, at Jax Riverdog on Tuesdays and Sundays.