Welcome to Best Paw Forward
Training is critical to a long, happy and safe relationship with your canine friend. Yet many dog owners become frustrated when trying to train their dogs.
The fact is that almost
everyone can benefit from some coaching in how to better train their dog. That is why I founded Best Paw Forward - to help dogs and their owners in the Bellevue/Seattle area. Whether you prefer to participate in group classes, organized
play groups, or private lessons, let me help your dog put his or her best paw forward!
Best Paw Forward is founded on the belief that if you take a positive approach to your dog
training, it will become both an enjoyable and fulfilling activity. Training is most
effective when both you and your dog are enjoying yourselves and having fun! As you build
the relationship with your dog, you'll find that training gets easier and easier. Before
long, it will become intuative, and so easy that you'll do it without thinking. Dog
training needn't be hard - you just need to take time to learn exactly what works and why
people often fail, and spend time practicing effective techniques with your dog!
If you have any questions while exploring this website, please shoot me an e-mail...or
just pick up the phone and call. There's no better time to start improving your
relationship with your dog than now!
Cheri Yates, Ph.D., CPDT - Owner and Trainer
Cheri Yates, founder of Best Paw Forward, has a master’s degree in learning theory and a doctorate degree in clinical psychology from the University of Washington. She has extensive background and experience in behaviorism and human and canine cognitive development.
Cheri has a thorough understanding of behavior modification, and has implemented many programs for both humans and dogs. This includes programs working with individuals as well as instructing others in the use of positive behavior change. Cheri attended Animal Behavior College, and volunteers in multiple dog related programs at the Seattle Human Society. In addition, she attends workshops, conferences, and seminars in order to constantly improve her skills and increase her knowledge base.
Cheri has trained dogs throughout the range of levels from puppy kindergarten through intermediate classes. She is also an approved Canine Good Citizenship evaluator, and has been an enthusiastic participant in the CGC program with all of her own dogs. She is currently training one of her dogs to compete in AKC competitive obedience trials, which requires a high degree of performance in basic and advanced dog skills.
Through Best Paw Forward, Cheri provides individually created private lessons to teach manners, obedience, and to build positive relationships between dogs and their people. Lessons focus on problem solving and positive management of behavior. Group lessons are taught through the Seattle Humane Society.
Best Paw Forward is licensed and insured.
Cheri has the following certifications/memberships:
Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT), a credential that requires not only references from a colleague and a veterinarian, but completion of 300 training hours, a comprehensive exam, and ongoing education.
International Association of Canine Professionals
Association of Animal Behavior Professionals
Animal Behavior Society
Association of Pet Dog Trainers
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