PATH Dog Training & Psychology

Training begins with a required in-home or virtual initial evaluation. Clients then choose from structured packages: Basic (4 sessions), Intermediate (8), or Advanced (12) for training, or Mild (4), Moderate (8), or Severe (12) for behavior modification. Sessions are typically weekly, lasting 1–2 hours, and include detailed homework via Google Docs. Group classes include pack walks on Saturdays at La Cuchara Trailhead, open to mild-moderately reactive dogs, with drop-in pricing. Training focuses on foundational cues, loose-leash walking, recall, and CGC preparation. Behavior modification uses counter-conditioning and desensitization to address reactivity, separation anxiety, fearfulness, and aggression. Service dog training is offered but typically requires 2 years of consistent work.

Pricing Summary

Private training packages start at $500 for 4 sessions ($125/session), with discounts for larger packages (8 sessions: $920; 12 sessions: $1,260). Behavior modification packages range from $800 (4 sessions) to $2,160 (12 sessions), with progressive discounts. Initial behavior consultation is $175/hr (1.5–2 hours), discounted to $165 for virtual. Pack walks are $20/dog on a drop-in basis. Travel within 15 miles is included; additional travel is $10 per 15 minutes one way. Online sessions receive a $10 discount per session. Programs require upfront purchase and must be completed within 6 months, with unused sessions forfeited unless approved for emergency gaps.

Policies

Programs require upfront purchase of a package; single sessions are not permitted. All programs must be completed within 6 months of the first session, with unused sessions forfeited unless an emergency gap is approved by Ash. Travel fees apply beyond a 15-minute one-way radius. Virtual sessions are available with a $10 discount per session. No refunds are offered, but follow-up Zoom troubleshooting is free after program completion if results are not achieved.

PATH Dog Training & Psychology, founded by Ash Miner in 2008, offers positive, reward-based private training sessions and group classes to help dog owners build a strong, partnership-based relationship with their dogs. Ash has over 18 years of hands-on experience training dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages, and behavioral needs—from 3lb Chihuahuas to 210lb Mastiffs—and specializes in behavior modification, service dog training, and reactivity cases. She uses force-free, fear-free methods and avoids all aversive tools like prong, choke, or shock collars. Ash holds a Master of Science in Animal Behavior & Wellness (MS-AB), is an AKC-certified CGC evaluator, and a Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI). She provides in-home sessions, virtual training via Zoom, and group pack walks on trails for reactive dogs. Her approach integrates canine psychology, emotional regulation, and holistic wellness, including diet, exercise, and energy work when appropriate. She also offers scholarships for financially struggling clients and provides detailed, continuously updated Google Docs with homework instructions for all private clients. Her services are vet-approved and trusted by thousands of dog owners in Santa Fe and surrounding areas.

Ash emphasizes teaching humans how to communicate effectively with their dogs, ensuring long-term success through consistency and understanding. She does not offer boarding, grooming, or day care, but focuses exclusively on training and behavior modification. Her group classes include Tricks, CGC preparation, and pack walks that combine obedience training with socialization in real-world environments. She is committed to ethical, science-backed training and refuses to use unregulated or misleading titles like “behaviorist” without formal academic credentials.

Accomplishments

Ash Miner holds a Master of Science in Animal Behavior & Wellness (MS-AB) from an accredited university, certified by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a CGC evaluator for Canine Good Citizen, Community Canine, and Urban CGC tests, and is a Certified Trick Dog Instructor (CTDI) from Do More With Your Dog. She has trained thousands of dogs since 2008, with over 500 five-star reviews across Yelp, Google, and Meetup. She is a professional member of APDT, IACP, and PPG. Her education includes a bachelor’s degree in education, enhancing her ability to teach human owners effectively.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients must schedule an initial in-home or virtual evaluation session before beginning any training or behavior program. This assessment allows Ash to evaluate the dog’s needs, set goals, and recommend a customized package. After the initial session, clients commit to a package of sessions. Group pack walks are available on a drop-in basis with RSVP via Meetup.