Pick of the Litter Dog Training

Training programs are offered in private in-home sessions, group classes at Run Wild Dog Sports and Training Center, and day training where the trainer works with the dog during the day. Group classes include AKC Star Puppy, Companion Manners, Reactive Rover, Canine Good Citizen, Rally Obedience, and classes for high-energy dogs. Private lessons are customized based on a behavioral history and evaluation, with structured packages for puppies, obedience, and behavior modification. Day training is tailored for puppies, adults, and dogs with aggression or reactivity issues.

Pricing Summary

Training packages range from $225 for a 2-session Quick Study Package to $550 for 6-session Home School Obedience or Complex Behavior Modification Packages. Puppy Parenting and Simple Behavior Modification Packages are priced at $400 for 4 sessions. Initial assessment is free.

Pick of the Litter Dog Training is a professional dog training business founded in 1997 and led by Jennifer Schneider, a certified dog behaviorist with over 25 years of experience. They specialize in positive reinforcement, force-free training methods designed to build trust and strengthen the bond between dogs and their owners. Services include private in-home lessons, group classes at Run Wild Dog Sports and Training Center in Auburn, WA, and day training programs for busy owners. They offer tailored programs for puppies, adult dogs, and dogs with complex behavioral issues such as reactivity, aggression, fearfulness, and separation anxiety. Their training philosophy is grounded in scientific research and emphasizes individualized approaches using food, toys, play, and real-life rewards to motivate dogs. They do not use aversive tools like choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars.

Jennifer holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Washington and a Master’s degree in Animal Science and Behavior (2025). She is nationally certified as a professional dog trainer, an AKC Certified Evaluator, and a mentor trainer for Animal Behavior College. She is also an expert columnist for wikiHow and regularly attends advanced training seminars to stay current in the field.

The business serves South King County and North Pierce County, WA, including cities like Auburn, Kent, Federal Way, Tacoma, and more. They offer structured training packages for puppies, obedience, and behavior modification, with pricing ranging from $225 for a 2-session Quick Study Package to $550 for 6-session intensive programs. A free initial assessment is available by phone or email to help owners determine the best path forward.

Accomplishments

Jennifer Schneider has over 25 years of professional experience as a dog trainer and behavior specialist. She earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Washington in 2001 and a Master’s in Animal Science and Behavior in 2025. She is nationally certified as a professional dog trainer (2006), an AKC Certified Evaluator, and a certified mentor trainer for Animal Behavior College. She is also an expert columnist for wikiHow and regularly attends advanced training seminars.

How to Get Started!

Client engagement begins with a free initial assessment by phone or email to discuss the dog’s needs and determine the best training program. After the assessment, clients can schedule private lessons, group classes, or day training based on their goals and location.