Let’s make that behavior make sense.

With training that clicks — for you and your dog.

Professional Dog Training + Behavior Consulting in Richmond, VA

What is Dognitive?

Dog noun a carnivious mammal that has been domesticated as a companion — your best friend

Cognitive adjective relating to cognition: the mental action or process of acquiring knowledge and understanding through thought, experiences and the senses

Understanding how dogs learn is what Dognitive is all about

Does your dog:

  • Growl or bark at strangers

  • Struggle to calm down

  • Fight with another animal in the home

  • Panic during vet visits

  • Freeze or hide in new environments

  • Snap or bite when touched

  • Lunge at other animals on walks

You’ve come to the right place.

Helping dogs with big feelings is what I do.

A customized approach to training that makes sense for you and your pup

Private Coaching

1-on-1 (-on-1) coaching with a professional trainer to teach your dog and you all the skills you need to tackle any challenge you face — together

Day Training

“Done-for-you” training so you can spend more time enjoying your better-than-ever life with a dog that knows just what to do

Hi, I’m Sam.

I know just what it’s like to be overwhelmed and confused by your dog’s behavior — I changed my whole career because I adopted a dog who challenged me to learn more so we could understand each other and thrive together.

Now, I love teaching dogs and working with humans to help them achieve that level of understanding and connection with their own pups.

No judgement here, just compassion, curiosity, and collaboration!

A cute photo of a pale man with curly hair with a tan and white puppy in his lap, the puppy is standing up on their hind legs and is licking the man's chin

My dog Wallaby was a bit of a handful when he was younger. With Sam's help and all around general guidance, he dramatically changed his disposition.

I love her methods of training. There have been some forms of dog behavioral modification I've heard from others that always had me weary. However, Sam's techniques do not use these tactics.

I highly recommend her to anyone. 

- Blake, Wallaby’s human