Meet Lona
Lona has a story that would stop you in your tracks. She literally found Gretchen, emaciated, neglected, on her own, and over the past 11 years, they’ve grown into a remarkable team. She’s not just well behaved; she’s been a working dog, intuitive, and incredibly reliable. From demonstrating training techniques to supporting Gretchen in helping other dogs, she shows how patience, trust, and kindness can transform a dog’s life. She’s proof that all dogs have potential and that the right partnership can bring it out. She can also be a humorous and humbling reminder that even a dog trainer’s dog has her own mind, full of playful surprises and silly off script moments that keep life interesting.
Who we are
Meet Gretchen
Gretchen is a dog trainer based out of Austin, Texas. When you meet her, you quickly realize that working with dogs isn’t just a job, it’s a lifelong passion. She’s spent years learning from dogs in shelters, walking and sitting dogs of all kinds, and building her experience into a training philosophy rooted in patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement. Known for her calm, kind approach, she helps dogs and their humans communicate clearly, overcome fears and grow together. Every dog she works with benefits from her gentle guidance and deep respect for their unique personality and needs.
Meet Gretchen
Gretchen is a dog trainer based out of Austin, Texas. When you meet her, you quickly realize that working with dogs isn’t just a job, it’s a lifelong passion. She’s spent years learning from dogs in shelters, walking and sitting dogs of all kinds and building her experience into a training philosophy rooted in patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement. Known for her calm, kind approach, she helps dogs and their humans communicate clearly, overcome fears, and grow together. Every dog she works with benefits from her gentle guidance and deep respect for their unique personality and needs.
Meet Lona
Lona has a story that would stop you in your tracks. She literally found Gretchen, emaciated, neglected, on her own, and over the past 11 years, they’ve grown into a remarkable team. She’s not just well behaved; she’s been a working dog, intuitive, and incredibly reliable. From demonstrating training techniques to supporting Gretchen in helping other dogs, she shows how patience, trust, and kindness can transform a dog’s life. She’s proof that all dogs have potential and that the right partnership can bring it out. She can also be a humorous and humbling reminder that even a dog trainer’s dog has her own mind, full of playful surprises and silly off script moments that keep life interesting.
Get in Touch
Interested in working together?
Fill out some info and I’ll be in touch shortly!
Get in Touch
Interested in working together?
Fill out some info.
I’ll be in touch shortly!
Private In Home & Real World Sessions
Austin, Texas & Surrounding Areas
About the Training & Services
Private In Home
& Real World Sessions in
Greater Austin
What This Service Is
I offer private, one on one dog training and support services designed to build calm behavior, clear communication, and confidence in everyday life.
My work includes foundational training, puppy training, walk and train sessions, companion dog support, and day training, all tailored to the individual dog and household.
Sessions usually take place in your home or at nearby parks and real world locations, depending on your goals and your dog’s needs. Training where life actually happens helps dogs learn skills that are easier to use and maintain over time.
All training is grounded in kind, clear, science based positive reinforcement.
Training Philosophy
My approach is gentle, reward based, and relationship focused, but not permissive. Dogs are guided with clear expectations and consistent feedback, helping them understand what’s being asked without fear, intimidation, or punishment.
The goal is obedience, and a dog who feels secure, engaged, and able to navigate daily life with confidence.
Who I Work With
I work with:
Seniors and families looking for consistent, thoughtful support
Anyone looking for calm, practical, science-based dog training
Puppies starting training for the first time
Newly adopted or rescued dogs
Adult dogs needing structure or reinforcement
Dogs learning to navigate home life, walks, and public spaces
First time dog owners
Session Format
Most services are offered in 60 minute sessions, thoughtfully structured to support focus and learning.
Training is broken into short, effective working periods with natural breaks, discussion, and real world application as needed.
This format allows for hands on practice, owner coaching, and meaningful progress without overwhelming the dog.
What We Work On
Each 60 minute session is customized to your dog and may include:
Sit, down, stay, and recall
Loose leash walking
Name recognition and focus
Impulse control and polite manners
Building training foundations and household routines
Confidence building and calm behavior
Common Questions
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Yes. Early foundations training is a great way to start your journey with your pup. Helping build good habits, confidence, and communication from the beginning.
Please note: In order to allow training to begin safely and responsibly puppies must have proof of full parvovirus vaccination.
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Absolutely. Dogs of any age can learn new skills and strengthen behavior.
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Yes! Treats are a powerful tool in dog training when used thoughtfully. I use them as part of a positive, science backed approach that motivates your dog and builds clear communication. Treats help reinforce desired behaviors, making learning enjoyable and effective.
As your dog masters new skills, we gradually reduce treats. Our goal is to create a confident, well behaved dog while keeping training fun and stress free.
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That depends on your dog, your goals, and consistency between sessions. Many clients see the best results with ongoing sessions or a training package.
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Sessions may take place in your home, at a park, or in other real world settings, depending on your goals and your dog’s needs.