Johanna champions training methods that put welfare first and get results. She has a deep love for dogs and animals, and has transformed this passion into a thriving professional career. Johanna’s mission is to help East Bay dogs and their people love life together - so you can enjoy a well-behaved dog at home and in your neighborhood. Johanna graduated with honors from the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers, earning her Certification in Training and Counseling (CTC). She also spent many years volunteering in animal shelters, rescues, and spay and neuter programs, where she actively worked to curb dog overpopulation issues in California. This work helped her appreciate the importance of quality training in keeping dogs out of shelters.
Drawing from her teaching background in Germany, Johanna shares concepts and skills in an accessible and easy-to-apply way - for two and four-legged learners.
Johanna stays up-to-date in her learning! Conference and workshop highlights include:
Johanna’s right-hand dog is Laska, a rescue from Spain. Laska spent her formative year in a crowded shelter without any exposure to the outside world. After multiple foster homes and time in a boarding kennel in Germany, she was lucky to land in her forever home with Johanna.
Laska had a hard time adapting to city life, displaying fearfulness and reactivity towards everything new. Determined to make a difference, Johanna delved into dog training and behavior to better understand her.
Through patience and perseverance, Laska gradually grew in confidence, and now leads a happy life. She's even discovered a passion for Agility and Rally Obedience, earning several AKC Trick titles and her Canine Good Citizen certificate.
Laska isn't just a beloved companion; she's a testament to the power of patience, understanding, and positive training in helping dogs lead happier lives