Why Choose Sandy Paws
for My Dog Training Needs?
The dog training industry is unfortunately unregulated, which means anyone can claim to be a “dog trainer” without having any formal qualifications. That’s why it’s so important to choose someone with the right combination of education, certifications, and hands-on experience. I'm incredibly grateful that dog training is not just my profession, but my true passion - and I’m committed to honoring that by continuously investing in my own education and growth as a trainer. While the industry may lack regulation, I hold myself to the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and ongoing learning. I approach every dog as an individual, using humane, science-based methods that prioritize trust, clarity, and respect. My goal is not only to train dogs, but to empower owners with the tools and confidence they need for long-term success.
Certification
Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers
Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABC-DT)
by Animal Behavior College
Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
by the American Kennel Club (AKC)
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy
Minor in Occupational Science
from the University of Southern California
Commitment to Continuing Education by attending Seminars and Conferences, taking Online Courses, and keeping up with Dog Training Literature
FDSA BH150 Management For Reactive Dogs
FDSA Dogs with Big Feelings Conference 2022
The Aggression in Dogs Conference 2022
The Association of Professional Dog Trainers Conference 2024
Karen Pryor Clicker Expo 2025
FDSA The Barkey Lungey Dog Conference 2025
Professional Experience
Extensive Animal Experience
Veterinary Assistant Experience
Volunteer Experience
Dog Training Internships, Mentorships, & Schooling
Thousands of Hours Professionally Training Dogs
Methodology
Positive Reinforcement R+ Based Training
Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA)
Relationship & Science Based
Humane Hierarchy
Fear Free
Affiliations
Association for Professional Dog Training International
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
The Carson Animal Shelter
Personal Experience
Dog Owner of 20+ Years
Owner Trained Psychiatric Service Dog
Achieved 5 AKC Titles
Click Here to see my own pup Freddie demonstrate!
Check out some of my other Testimonials!
To learn even more, please visit Meet SPSB Owner Serena
Still Need Convincing?
Hear It From Just A Few Happy Owners!
"Serena is a great trainer! She helped us raising our puppy into a teenager and building a solid foundation for him to become a great dog and also taught us to be a better humans for our pup. I honestly don't know if we would have such a good relationship with our golden if not for the course we went through together. Can't recommend Serena enough!"
Iaroslav K.
"We had a wonderful experience working with Serena on our 14 months old Havanese puppy's reactivity (because of excitement) to other dogs. She listened to us, observed our puppy's behavior around other dogs and created a tailored training plan. Thanks to her, our dog's behavior has improved significantly. Additionally, the booking and meeting process were very convenient, and she was very flexible scheduling weekly sessions according to our availability. We highly recommend Serena to anyone needing professional dog training."
"Serena was so amazing with my reactive pitbull rescue. She really took the time to figure out the deeper causes of her reactivity and made sure we moved at my dog’s pace. My dog, Millie, made so much progress in just a few months!"
Phoebe L.
Ekin T.
"Our family has been extremely pleased with the training sessions we've had with Serena. She has a very calm demeanor with our energetic puppy and has guided us in the training rather than taken over herself. She has watched our interactions with the dog and corrected us which gives us the confidence to continue when she's not here."
Noreen D.
"I own not one but TWO Dobermans. When I started with Serena we had some issues with reactivity on my older dog and my younger was just a puppy. As a young female I can easily walk both fully grown dogs in one hand thanks to Serena's dedication and patience. I am now able to travel solo with both dogs and can comfortably say I would leave them with her and her employees no problem at all. Truly a blessing to this community and couldn't be more grateful."
Hannah P.
SPSB Training Carson Shelter Dogs
Services We Offer
Evaluations, Single Sessions, Packages
Training Evaluations
Training Evaluations are required for all new clients requesting Training Services. They are not a guarantee of service.
Evaluations act as an opportunity for me to observe your dog’s behavior, temperament, obedience level, and social skills to better understand their training needs. We'll discuss your goals, expectations, and any behavioral concerns you may have. I’ll also conduct a hands-on assessment of basic commands and leash manners, while evaluating your dog’s focus, energy, and reactions to people and distractions. Based on these insights, I’ll recommend a personalized training plan tailored to you and your pup.
Single Sessions
1 on 1, Flexible, Customizable
Prepaid Packages
Whether you're starting with the basics or diving into behavior modification, we offer personalized dog training packages to fit your pup's needs and your lifestyle. Each package includes hands-on sessions with clear goals and practical guidance to strengthen your bond and boost your dog’s obedience and confidence. Our custom programs are designed for puppies, adult dogs, or rescues!
For optimal results we recommend that packages are used 1x per week within an around a 12 week period, or shorter.
Focused Foundations
4 Session Package
$570 (5% off)
A great starting point for polishing up basic obedience skills or tackling 1–2 specific mild behavior concerns. This package is ideal for dogs who need a refresher or for pet parents looking to lay down the groundwork with expert guidance.
Balanced Behavior
8 Session Package
$1,080 (10% off)
Designed for more in-depth training and lasting behavior change. With 8 sessions, we can focus on more complex obedience, behavior modification, and deeper communication between you and your dog. Ideal for clients who want more than basic obedience and for adult dogs or adolescent pups with mild to moderate behavioral challenges.
Complete Canine Program
12 Session Package
$1,530 (15% off)
Best Value – Highly Recommended for Puppies! This comprehensive package offers the time, structure, and support needed to transform your dog’s behavior from the ground up. It supports long-term success through structured, consistent training. It’s ideal for new puppy owners, service/therapy dog prospects, or dogs working through behavioral challenges such as reactivity, fear, or anxiety.
All Packages Include:
✅ Customized, flexible training plan
✅ Targeted homework between sessions
✅ Ongoing evaluations & progress tracking
✅ Text support + priority scheduling
✅ Graduation certificate upon completion
🐾 Not sure which package is right for you? Schedule a 1-on-1 evaluation session using our Prospective Client Form and Serena will design a custom training plan tailored to your dog’s unique needs and your lifestyle. 🐾
AKC CGC Evaluations
Professional AKC Approved CGC Evaluator
As an AKC CGC Evaluator, I offer testing that upon successful completion, allows your dog to receive an official AKC title. Many owners use these testing programs as an indicator of the standard of dog behavior, for use toward becoming a therapy dog or service dog, or to simply build a better relationship between dog and owner.
AKC S.T.A.R Puppy Program, Canine Good Citizen, AKC Community Canine, Urban CGC, Video Home Manners, and Trick Dog Tests.
$50 / In-Person Evaluation
$25 / Online Video Submission
Out of Our Service Area for In-Home Training?
Not Enough Room At Your Residence For Training?
Does The Training You Want To Accomplish Require A Different Environment...?
No Problem!
The Sandy Paws South Bay Facility (located in Hermosa Beach)
is available for use!
