Hi, I’m Sam Pierce
As a behavior consultant…
I’ve been working with dogs professionally for over a decade, and training professionally for five years. I got my start in the shelter world before transitioning to work with dogs and their guardians, and now I can’t imagine doing anything else.
I am a multi-certified dog trainer, as well as a graduate of two animal training programs and a member of many animal behavior organizations and memberships to support my ongoing education.
My passion lies in helping dogs who experience chronic stress and hyperarousal, and dogs who display aggressive, reactive, or fearful behavior. I have experience with working with a wide array of breeds, but have a soft spot for anything herd-y.
As a human…
I care about human welfare just as much as I care about animal welfare (spoiler alert: you can’t have the latter without the former). I’m deeply invested in providing affirmative experiences for every individual I work with and am committed to furthering my knowledge about how to do this at every opportunity I get.
When I’m not working or learning, you can typically find me in the woods somewhere with my dog. In 2026, I’m attempting to visit as many State & National Parks as I can (yes, I’m bringing my dog along).
And this is Cash
As a teacher…
Cash and I have been through a lot in our time together, and like many Dogs of Dog Trainers he is the push I needed to pursue education in animal behavior. He has had his fair share of behavior challenges, many of which we’ve successfully worked through and some we’re still working on.
More than anything else, Cash has taught me that dog parent life is complicated: it can be exhausting, cup-filling, heartbreaking, and rewarding, all at the same time, and that’s okay. Together, we’ve learned to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the little moments as often as we can. This dog-wisdom is the thing I hope to pass on to everyone I work with.
As a dog…
Cash is a 5 year old rescue Australian Cattle Dog x Maremma Sheepdog cross who came to live with me at 10 months old. He is objectively the cutest creature in the world, and the center of my entire universe.
His favorite activities include off-leash adventures in the woods, WWE-style wrestling, and knowing exactly where I am at all times.
