Endorsements
Read what our referral partners are saying about us!
As a veterinarian of 23 years with a special interest in behavior, I realize that the relationship between a human and their dog is critical for everyone's long term health and happiness.
I discuss socialization and behavior with every client while observing their pup, and strongly recommend only LEAP trainers to help optimize this relationship. These trainers are so much more than obedience trainers- they are behavioral coaches, essentially therapists for the human animal bond.
Every LEAP trainer listed is Massachusetts-based, credentialed, and committed exclusively to positive, evidence-based methods. This gives me confidence that I am referring my clients and patients to someone I can trust.
LEAP takes the guesswork out of a decision that really matters. Whether a client has a new puppy or a dog with complex behavioral needs, the ability to filter by specialty and find the right trainer — not just any trainer — is invaluable. That kind of thoughtful matching is exactly what my clients need.
I have worked with several of the LEAP trainers, both referring my patients and for working with my own dogs, and know from personal experience how professional and well equipped they are for helping coach through everything from basic puppy needs to mental health and behavior challenges. I trust LEAP.
Dr. Astrid Kruse, DVM
At Save-A-Dog, our mission doesn't end the moment a dog is adopted; it ends when that dog is happy, settled, and thriving in their forever home. The transition from a shelter or foster home to a new family can be a vulnerable time, and having the right professional support is often the difference between a successful adoption and a dog being returned.
That is why we recommend Leap trainers to our adopters and foster families.
Why we choose Leap:
-
Vetted Professionals: We know our clients aren’t just getting a "dog trainer"—they are getting a credentialed professional who has been vetted for their education and comittment to non-aversive training techniques.
-
Safety and Kindness: Many rescue dogs come from backgrounds of trauma or neglect. Leap’s commitment to force-free, evidence-based methods ensures that our dogs are never subjected to fear, pain, or intimidation during the learning process.
-
Clarity in a Confusing Industry: The dog training industry is currently unregulated, which can make finding help overwhelming for new owners. Leap removes the guesswork by providing a transparent directory of trainers who adhere to the highest ethical standards.
-
Behavioral Longevity: By using positive reinforcement, our adopters build a bond based on trust rather than "dominance." This creates more resilient dogs and more confident owners.
We are proud to partner with a platform that shares our values. If you are looking to start your new pup off on the right paw, or if you need help with a specific behavior challenge, please visit www.chooseleap.org to find a qualified trainer near you.
As a dedicated canine professional in the Bay State, I am happy to endorse LEAP, an essential resource for Massachusetts pet owners seeking humane, expert guidance.
In an industry without state licensing, LEAP provides a critical standard by exclusively featuring trainers who are:
-
Professionally Credentialed: Every trainer holds recognized certifications (such as CPDT-KA, KPA CTP, IAABC) that prove a deep understanding of learning theory and animal behavior.
-
Evidence-Based & Positive: The network is committed to science-based, force-free methods, adhering to AVSAB (American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior) guidelines that reject the use of aversive tools like shock or prong collars.
-
Locally Focused: They connect you with Massachusetts animal professionals who understand our local environment—from navigating busy Boston sidewalks to off-leash hiking in the Berkshires.
Finding a trainer you can trust is the most important decision you’ll make for your dog's well-being. Choose LEAP takes the guesswork out of that process, ensuring your companion is in the hands of someone who leads with respect and proven expertise.
