Shelby Semel Dog Training

We have an extremely reactive mini schnauzer and after working with a few other trainers with no progress we were completely at a loss. A few people had recommended Shelby Semel so we decided to give it a try and were SO incredibly lucky enough to be matched with Genevieve. I have never worked with a trainer so knowledgable about dog behavior. While other trainers in the past were rigid and just used the same, standard techniques that don't work for highly reactive and anxious dogs, Gen took the time to get to know and understand our dog and provided insight into his behavior. What I appreciated most is that she was always realistic with us and our training sessions/goals never felt idealistic or unattainable. Rather, we truly focused on little steps and management which also completely shifted our own perspective on how we should be engaging with our dog going forward. Gen worked with us through a huge move, the birth of our first child, and the introduction of our nanny and we credit all of our success to her. Even outside of sessions she checks in with texts to see how things are going and genuinely cares about the progress of your dog. If you want someone who will actually take the time to understand your individual circumstances/pet and will truly work with you on creating the right plan with realistic and actionable goals, I can't recommend Gen enough.

Sabrina is incredible. She did a two-week bootcamp with our puppy Max and completely set us up for success. Max isn't our first dog, but honestly the experience has been so different this time, in the best way, and that's all thanks to Sabrina. She didn't just train Max. She taught us how to work with him and how to keep it going long after the bootcamp ended. That part mattered so much. We finally feel like we know what we're doing. If you're bringing home a puppy or just want a stronger foundation with your dog, I can't recommend her enough. We're so grateful we found her.

This review is for Laura Folsom at Shelby Semel Training. My poor rescue dog has been struggling with separation anxiety. Laura was able to help me get over some initial humps with my little dog Dubu, and in combination with finding the right vet behaviorist, the right medicine combination and Laura's patience my dog Dubu can now stay home alone up to 6 hours. Separation anxiety is incredibly lonely and daunting. At first, I was a little wary of the virtual training aspect. But as someone that can now leave the house for dinner, I can confidently say it works! Reach out to them! Hire the trainer, and hire the vet behaviorist! Your dog will find confidence, and it will let you finally live your life. My dog is now so happy, and she has finally learned that I will in fact, be right back.

When we brought home our newborn, our first introduction with our 4-year-old Mini Australian Shepherd didn't go as hoped, and we knew we needed guidance quickly. Through our doula's network, we were connected with Shelby, and she turned out to be exactly the right resource at the right time. Working entirely virtually, Shelby took the time to understand our dog's specific temperament and our situation before building a plan that gave us clear, actionable steps for the re-introduction. She is consultative and thoughtful, and her non-judgmental approach made it easy to be honest about what was and wasn't working. Her responsiveness has been a real asset. She encourages video check-ins and gets back quickly with specific, practical feedback. Having that kind of accessible support during an already full season of life has made a meaningful difference. If you're navigating a major life transition with your dog, particularly one involving a new baby, we'd recommend reaching out to Shelby.