MastersBestDogEver

Training is delivered in 4-week private packages with weekly 60–90 minute sessions held at the Irmo training facility. Each session includes hands-on instruction, video demonstrations, and written step-by-step guides. Programs include New Puppy-What Now, Mat Work, Loose Leash Walking, Basic Manners, Intermediate Obedience, and Behavior Consultations for reactivity and fearfulness. Training is customized to the dog and owner’s needs, with emphasis on proofing behaviors in real-world settings.

Pricing Summary

Basic Manners and Intermediate Obedience packages are $350 for 4 weekly private lessons. Training is offered in structured 4-week packages focused on foundational skills, loose leash walking, and behavior modification. No hourly rates or à la carte pricing is listed.

Candice Masters is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) and Control Unleashed Certified Instructor (CCUI) who offers science-based, force-free, positive reinforcement dog training. She specializes in private, one-on-one sessions designed to help dog owners build a strong, respectful relationship with their pets through foundational skills like loose leash walking, mat work, basic and intermediate manners, and behavior modification for reactivity, fearfulness, and aggression. Each 60–90 minute session includes video demonstrations and written step-by-step instructions to reinforce learning at home. Candice has over 35 years of experience training dogs, including 10 years as a K9 handler in Search and Rescue, and she focuses on teaching owners how to effectively communicate with and motivate their dogs. Her programs are tailored to individual needs and include AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, Canine Good Citizen, and reactive dog management. She works with puppies, adolescents, adults, and seniors across a wide range of breeds, including high-energy and challenging dogs like Rhodesians.

Candice is committed to ethical, reward-based methods and avoids any use of corrections, choke chains, or e-collars. She is a member of the Pet Professional Guild, Association of Professional Dog Trainers, and International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, ensuring ongoing education and adherence to industry best practices. Her clients consistently report dramatic improvements in their dogs’ behavior and confidence, with many noting that she trains the owner as much as the dog.

She also serves as an AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator and offers behavior consultations for complex issues like resource guarding, jumping, barking, and separation anxiety. Her training philosophy centers on teaching, training, and proofing behaviors with patience and fun, using games and pattern-based learning to build confidence and cooperation.

Accomplishments

Candice Masters is a CPDT-KA certified professional dog trainer, Control Unleashed Certified Instructor (CCUI), Fear Free Certified Professional, and AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator. She has over 35 years of hands-on dog training experience, including 10 years as a K9 handler in multiple California Search and Rescue teams. She is a member of leading professional organizations including APDT, IAABC, and PPG, and consistently applies science-based, force-free methods in all training.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients are encouraged to call 408-201-2392 to schedule a private training package. No online booking system is available; initial contact is made via phone or email to discuss needs and begin a 4-week program.