Meet the Trainer

Hi, I’m Emma—dog trainer, animal behavior nerd, and founder of Pitter Patter Dog Training. My journey into animal training began in the woods of Massachusetts, where I grew up surrounded by cats, one dog, and a deep love for animals. That love took root at a summer farm camp, where I first learned to handle livestock. I halter-trained my own cow, Kiga, showed her in fairs, and developed an early understanding of animal behavior that still shapes my approach today.

Over the years, I worked with sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, and more—learning to read subtle body language, stay calm in fast-moving situations, and build trust with animals of all kinds. My experiences caring for cows and sheep in Ireland during calving and lambing season further deepened that intuition and responsibility.

I earned my Bachelor's degree in Animal Behavior and Sustainable Agriculture from Hampshire College, where I focused on livestock, hydroponics, and canine behavior. My studies and research gave me a strong foundation in understanding why animals behave the way they do—and how to use that knowledge to build better communication.

After college, I took a leap and moved cross-country to San Diego, where I began my professional dog training career. I worked my way from entry-level trainer to Head Trainer and location manager, specializing in reactive, fearful, and aggressive dogs. My hands-on experience with all types of dogs—and all kinds of people—taught me the power of observation, patience, and adaptability.

Eventually, I made my way to Charlotte, North Carolina, where I co-founded a dog training company before branching out to create something that was entirely mine. That’s how Pitter Patter Dog Training was born.

Here, I focus on changing the emotions behind behaviors—not just teaching dogs to follow commands. My methods are rooted in positive reinforcement, play, engagement, and mutual understanding. I believe in creating training plans that are personal, flexible, and genuinely enjoyable—for both the dog and the human.

I don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. I believe in listening, learning, and evolving—just like the dogs I train.