Our Trainers

Jeannie Seuffert, CDBC, CPDT-KA

Jeannie grew up riding horses and working in Equine Veterinary Medicine as an Equine midwife and veterinary assistant. Assisting in the birth of an animal is a special privilege that she shares about with such a passion. Caring for animals just seems to come so naturally. And there was never a stable without multiple dogs underfoot.

Jeannie spent many years working and volunteering in shelters as a canine coach observing and assessing behavior of dogs available for adoption. Her career in the horse industry prepared her for work with canines in ways she would never have imagined. Her passion to teach and engage with people comes naturally. She began her training career under the mentorship of Sue Sternberg. She went on to study canine ethology and behavior both in the classroom and out in the field.

With a passion for both people and dogs, Jeannie is a certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) and Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), committed to making the bond between dogs and their families stronger through positive, science-backed training methods. With a deep understanding of animal behavior and a background in veterinary medicine, Jeannie brings a holistic, compassionate approach to every training session.

Jeannie stays at the forefront of the industry through continuous education and hands-on experience, participating in a variety of dog sports like Agility, Nose Work, Tricks, Canine Freestyle, Rally and Canine parkour also known as urban agility. As a dedicated trainer, she works alongside her two terriers to hone skills and keep up with the latest advancements in training, education and canine ethology.

Jeannie believes in reward-based training that incorporates food reinforcers, play, and enrichment activities. She also emphasizes the importance of educating dog owners about canine behavior. When owners gain an understanding of the why behind their dog’s actions not only does this strengthen their relationship it becomes an opportunity to learn together.

A lover of all things active and outdoor, Jeannie enjoys hiking in the mountains of the Southwest, mountain biking, and snowshoeing and of course New Mexican food.  When not working with dogs, you’ll likely find her savoring a cup of coffee or tea at a local shop, at the gym, or in the kitchen.

If you’re looking to address specific behavior challenges or simply want to enrich the relationship with your dog Jeannie offers personalized training plans designed to fit both your dog’s unique needs and your family’s lifestyle.

Wendy Smith, MS, CPDT-KA

Wendy believes that each human-dog relationship is unique. She spends time learning how a client’s dog fits into the family and helps the client identify the most meaningful behaviors and skills for their dog to learn. She then sets training goals and adapts techniques and protocols to suit the specific needs of each client.

A professional member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, Wendy earned her Certification as a Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) in 2010 after completing the Dogs of Course Instructor Training Course. She has worked as a volunteer at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and as a teaching assistant at the St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center. Wendy fostered miniature schnauzers for the NJ Schnauzer Rescue Network evaluating temperament and behavior to facilitate successful placement into permanent homes.

In addition to holding both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering, Wendy actively pursues continuing education and professional development, by attending seminars and workshops on training, behavior modification and temperament evaluation. She enjoys hiking, cycling, running and travel through the southwest. Wendy grew up in a family that was never without a dog. She is fortunate to share her life with her two beloved miniature schnauzers, Snoot & Chito.

“I haven’t learned everything in life from my dog, but I’ve learned the important stuff.” – Wendy