Pawsitive Connection Dog Training

Training programs are structured in 5-week group classes with progressive levels: Puppy Prep (8–20 weeks), Obedience Levels 1–3, Reactive Rover, Reliable Recall, Agility for Fun, and Let Them Sniff (scent work). Each class includes hands-on instruction, homework challenges, and skill-building exercises. At-home online lessons are available for flexible learning. Board and train offers a 4-week intensive program with 4 private follow-up sessions. Daycare includes daily structured activities like play, nose work, naps, and field trips. Hydrotherapy uses a warm-water pool with hands-on bodywork for therapeutic recovery.

Pricing Summary

Group classes are priced at $185–$289 for 5-week sessions, depending on the program (e.g., Obedience Level 1 at $185, Reactive Rover at $289). Puppy Prep is $205, Reliable Recall is $215, and Agility for Fun and Let Them Sniff are $225. Board and train is available by custom quote. Daycare and hydrotherapy services are offered separately with pricing available upon inquiry.

Pawsitive Connection Dog Training, based in Spokane, WA, is a locally owned dog training business led by Stephanie Nilles, a passionate and experienced trainer with a background in education and personal training. They offer gentle, positive reinforcement-based training to help dog owners solve common behavior issues like jumping, leash pulling, poor recall, reactivity, and lack of house manners. Services include group classes, at-home online lessons, dog daycare, hydrotherapy, and board-and-train options. Their group classes are small-sized and focus on fun, results-driven training with programs for puppies, reactive dogs, obedience, recall, agility, and scent work. They emphasize building a strong bond between dogs and owners through force-free methods, and their facility includes a heated pool, a 2-acre Sniff Spot, and transportation via a specially equipped Waggin’ Wagon. They also offer essential oils as a complementary calming tool and provide ongoing support through podcasts and community events.

Their daycare program is designed for all ages and temperaments, with structured play, nose work, nap time, and field trips, ensuring dogs are mentally and physically stimulated. Hydrotherapy supports healing and mobility, especially for dogs with conditions like degenerative myelopathy. The business fosters a supportive community where owners celebrate each other’s progress and form lasting connections.

Stephanie’s own four dogs—Mina, Winston, Bam, and Eli—reflect her deep commitment to positive, joyful training. She is known for her personalized approach, patience with fearful dogs, and ability to transform challenging behaviors into confident, well-mannered companions. Clients consistently praise her for her empathy, expertise, and the lasting impact she has on both dogs and their families.

Accomplishments

Stephanie Nilles has successfully trained her own four dogs using positive methods and has built a thriving community of dog owners in Spokane. Her clients report dramatic behavioral transformations, including dogs that were once fearful or reactive becoming confident and well-behaved. She has developed unique programs like “Dog Scouts” for scent work and maintains a high retention rate, with clients returning for multiple classes over years. Her facility features a 2-acre Sniff Spot and a specialized Waggin’ Wagon for safe transport.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients can sign up for group classes via online scheduling links, contact the business to inquire about board and train or daycare, or schedule a free initial consultation to discuss their dog’s needs and choose the best program.