Meet Zara
I got my first dog at 22 — a high-energy border collie mix I named Pepper. Within a week, she'd eaten my couch, figured out how to open the fridge, and developed a barking habit that got us a noise complaint. I was in over my head. The first trainer I hired used choke chains and intimidation. Pepper got quieter, but she also got fearful. I knew there had to be a better way. That search led me to the science of animal behavior, force-free training methods, and eventually a career change I never expected. I spent 5 years studying under certified animal behaviorists, earned my CPDT-KA and CBCC-KA certifications, and have since worked with over 500 dogs and their families. From anxious rescues to chaotic puppies to dogs with serious reactivity — I've seen it all, and I approach every case with patience, science, and zero judgment. Pepper is now 11 years old, calm, confident, and still the reason I do this work.
Every Dog Deserves to Be Understood
NOT JUST OBEDIENT — HAPPY, CONFIDENT, AND SAFE
What We Offer
Discover the range of services designed to support your journey to wellness
Puppy Foundation
Set your puppy up for a lifetime of good behavior — socialization, potty training, bite inhibition, and basic manners.
Reactivity & Fear
Help your dog feel safer around other dogs, strangers, or triggers — through counter-conditioning and confidence building.
Separation Anxiety
Systematic desensitization plans so your dog can stay calm when you leave — and you can stop worrying.
Leash Skills
Loose-leash walking, recall, and outdoor manners that make walks enjoyable again — for both of you.
Group Classes
Small-group training classes for puppies and adult dogs. Socialization, skills, and fun in a supportive environment.
Virtual Coaching
Live video sessions for behavior support anywhere. Perfect for busy schedules or when you need quick guidance.
How It Works
From chaos to calm — here's how we help you and your dog thrive together.
Free Consultation
We chat about your dog's behavior, your goals, and your household. I'll recommend the best path forward — no commitment required.
Build the Plan
Together we create a training plan tailored to your dog's temperament, your lifestyle, and realistic timelines.
Practice & Progress
With hands-on coaching and between-session support, new behaviors stick. Most clients see meaningful change in 2-4 weeks.
What Our Clients Say
Real families. Real dogs. Real transformations — with patience, not punishment.
"Our rescue dog Biscuit used to lunge at every dog on walks. After 8 weeks with Zara, he can walk past other dogs calmly. We actually enjoy walks now. I cried the first time it happened."
Jenna Caldwell
Adopted a reactive rescue
"We were completely overwhelmed with our golden retriever puppy. Zara gave us a clear plan and the confidence to follow through. Milo is now the best-behaved dog in our friend group."
Marco Delgado
First-time puppy owner
"My dog destroyed furniture every time I left. Zara's gradual desensitization plan was a game-changer. Luna can now stay home alone for 4 hours without a peep."
Aisha Patterson
Separation anxiety
"Managing two dogs with very different energy levels was chaotic. Zara helped us set structure and routines that work for everyone — including us."
Tyler Reeves
Multi-dog household
"Our shiba inu was terrified of strangers and loud noises. Zara's patience and force-free approach helped him come out of his shell. He even lets visitors pet him now."
Sophie Nakamura
Fearful dog
"I have a 90-pound lab who used to drag me down the street. Three sessions with Zara and I have my arm back. The loose-leash technique she taught us was so simple but so effective."
Chris Holloway
Leash pulling
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Choose the plan that best fits your needs. No hidden fees.
Free Consultation
Let's talk about your dog
- 30-minute video call
- Behavior assessment
- Training path recommendation
Training Package
Comprehensive behavior coaching
- 4 private sessions per month
- Personalized training plan
- Between-session video check-ins
- Email & text support
- Progress tracking
Intensive Day
A full training day for fast results
- 3-hour in-home session
- Full behavior assessment
- Custom training plan
- 2-week follow-up support
From Our Blog
Why Your Dog Pulls on the Leash (And How to Fix It)
Leash pulling isn't defiance — it's excitement. Here's the force-free approach that actually works.
The First 48 Hours With Your New Rescue Dog
What to do (and not do) when you bring a rescue dog home. The decompression period matters more than you think.
How Biscuit Went From Reactive to Relaxed
A real client story about a rescue dog who lunged at every dog on walks — and the 8-week transformation.
The Pawprint Post
Weekly dog training tips, behavior science, and real stories from families and their pups. Join 2,100+ dog owners.
Join 2,100+ dog lovers. Unsubscribe anytime.