Pawsitive K9 Trainer

Training begins with a consultation to assess the dog’s behavior and owner goals. Clients then choose from private in-home lessons, behavior walks (minimum four recommended), or customized training plans. The Weekender program offers intensive weekend board-and-train for established or new clients. Pet sitting is available for both new and current clients. Training is ongoing and adaptive, with follow-up support provided to ensure progress.

Pricing Summary

Specific pricing is not listed, but a $75 cancellation fee applies for appointments canceled within 24 hours. No refunds are given for cancellations within 24 hours of the session. Services include private lessons, behavior walks, consultations, customized plans, weekend board-and-train, and pet sitting.

Policies

No refunds are given for cancellations within 24 hours of a scheduled session. A $75 cancellation fee applies for appointments canceled within this window. Exceptions for unforeseen emergencies are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Pawsitive K9 Trainer, led by Tammy Smith, offers personalized dog training services in the Overland Park and Kansas City area. Tammy provides private in-home lessons, behavior walks, consultations, and customized training plans tailored to each dog’s needs and personality. She specializes in behavior modification for issues like reactivity, separation anxiety, and resource guarding, using positive, science-based methods rooted in psychology. Tammy also offers new services including Weekender board-and-train programs and pet sitting for both new and existing clients. With over a decade of experience, she combines formal education in psychology with hands-on mentorship from renowned trainers and volunteer work in animal-assisted therapy. Her approach emphasizes building trust, owner follow-through, and real-life application, making her ideal for families, multi-pet households, and dogs of all ages and breeds.

Tammy’s training philosophy is grounded in positive reinforcement, with a focus on understanding canine behavior through scientific principles. She has certified therapy and reading dogs and continues her education through workshops with national trainers like Nicole Skeehan and Dennis Bastian. Her clients appreciate her patience, flexibility, and ongoing support beyond sessions, including check-ins to ensure long-term success.

In addition to training, Tammy offers pet sitting and weekend boarding with training integration, providing convenience for busy owners. She works with puppies, adolescents, adults, and seniors, and adapts her methods for all dog types, including small, medium, large, and giant breeds, as well as doodles and herding breeds.

Accomplishments

Tammy Smith holds a B.A. in Psychology from Washburn University, has trained and certified three Pets for Life therapy dogs and one R.E.A.D. dog, and has volunteered extensively in animal-assisted therapy at schools and community centers. She has studied under nationally recognized trainers Dennis Bastian and Nicole Skeehan, and continues to consult with local expert Mary Kline. She competes in nosework with her own dog, Cedar Lain, and has been training professionally since 2015.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a consultation, either in-person or via contact, to discuss the dog’s behavior, history, and goals. Clients can reach out via email or the online form to initiate the process. The consultation helps determine the best training approach and whether Tammy is a good fit for the client’s needs.