ABOUT

Hi, I’m Lisa Benshoff

CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, Family Dog Mediator,
Licensed UnChase® instructor,
Tellington TTouch® Practitioner

Since starting my business in 2011, my mission has been to promote more harmony, trust, and joy in dog-guardian relationships.

My philosophy is simple: when we replace commands and control with meeting more needs and teaching new skills, along with calmness and cooperation, dogs feel better, behave better, and relationships thrive.
Modern training isn’t just kinder, it’s more effective. Our dogs become happier, healthier, more connected with us. Let’s help them be their best selves!

See how I can help you

45+ five-star client reviews on Google

A woman with shoulder-length light brown hair and a subtle smile taking a selfie outdoors in a green backyard with trees and a wooden fence.

My Story . . .

About 20 years ago, I shared my life with Barley and Bay, both sweet but quirky English Bull Terriers. Bay didn’t have any major behavior problems (other than losing her mind at the sight of deer), but I struggled to connect with her, which was heartbreaking.

Searching for answers, I discovered the Tellington TTouch method and spent two years traveling the country to learn and become certified. I practiced with my own dogs, and later with shelter dogs through volunteering at Talbot Humane and serving on the board at Baywater Animal Rescue. That opened the door to the wider world of positive training and behavior modification—a journey I’m still on today. Learning never ends.

I became a certified professional trainer (CPDT) in 2016 and a certified behaviour consultant (CBCC) in 2022. Recently, I’ve also worked with Baywater staff to help dogs find homes faster with basic manners and with less stress.

If you’re feeling distressed, frustrated, and confused by conflicting information, let me show you how TTouch and modern, science-based training can transform life with your dog.

GET IN TOUCH WITH ME
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You’re in safe hands . . .

Education

  • B.A. University of Virginia

  • Trained directly with renowned instructors Pat Miller and Gail Fisher, leaders in the positive training movement

  • Attended about 400 accredited conferences, workshops, webinars, and online courses to improve my skills, knowledge, and understanding. Keeping up-to-date is very important as this field continues to evolve.

    [Be aware that modern training has little in common with “traditional” training.]

Credentials

  • Certified Behavior Consultant Canine

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer

  • Licensed Un-Chase!® trainer

  • Certified Family Dog Mediator

  • Certified Tellington TTouch Practitioner (dogs)

  • Member, Tellington TTouch Guild

  • Member, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants

  • Member, The Pet Professional Guild

GET MY HELP WITH YOUR DOG
Learn more about my methods

  • “It’s been an absolute pleasure working with Lisa! She’s kind, patient, uses positive reinforcement and both of our pups love her!”

    SI

  • “We couldn’t have found a more perfect trainer than Lisa. We rescued Lexi, a 7 year-old pit mix, and quickly realized we were the ones who needed training. Lisa is thorough, dedicated, creative, and determined to help.”

    AS

  • “Lisa's calming presence has the most serene effect on animals and puts everyone at ease.”

    CK

  • "Lisa was great with our stubborn, unruly rescue dog! She was able to get her focused and brought out her desire to learn. She trained us as well!"

    Candy B

TRAINING SOLUTIONS

  • Young Puppies

    Laying strong foundations will get you and your puppy off on the right paw. Suitable for puppies up to 6 months of age.

    I have a puppy

  • Leash Walks

    Does your dog pull on the leash or zigzag around? This is your path to pleasant walks with your dog on a loose leash!

    I'd like to enjoy walks

  • Terrible Teens

    Living with an adolescent can be really challenging. Let’s get both of you on the right track so you can stop stressing and enjoy your pup more!

    I need help with my teen

  • Fear/ Anxiety/ Aggression

    Dogs with big feelings often develop troubling behaviors that are stressful for everyone. I can help, using kind, ethical methods.

    I want help with this

  • UnChase! ®

    If you’re struggling to stop your dog from chasing other animals, cars or bikes, this is the proven program that you need!

    this sounds perfect!

Am I the right trainer for you and your dog?

We are probably a good fit if you . . .

  • prioritize your dog’s well-being and your relationship

  • would love for your dog to be calmer and learn how to make good choices on their own

  • want to understand canine body language better

  • are keen to actively participate in your dog’s learning journey together

  • are eager to learn kind, fun ways to help your dog become well-behaved

We’re probably not a good fit if you . . .

  • prioritize obedience, regardless of how your dog is feeling

  • will try anything that seems to work instantly, including aversives

  • don’t have the time or patience to help your dog learn the skills they need

  • insist on correcting unwanted behaviors instead of blocking them and teaching alternatives

  • don’t want to use food for training because dogs “should want to please you”

Yes - we're a good fit!