Science-Based. Force-Free. Built on Trust.
Dogs are always communicating. My work is about listening — and helping both dogs and their people understand one another with clarity, compassion, and guidance.
I’m Valeri Sheme-Stallings, a professional dog trainer and behavior coach with over 25 years of hands-on experience working with dogs in real-world environments. My approach is grounded in positive reinforcement and force-free training methods, designed to help dogs make good choices while strengthening their bond with their guardians.
Training should build confidence, trust, and joy — never fear.
Training Philosophy with Dogs
I specialize in science-based, ethical dog training that respects dogs as thinking, feeling individuals. Using modern learning theory and applied behavior analysis, I help dogs learn practical, humane, and sustainable skills for everyday life.
This approach emphasizes:
- Clear communication with your dog or puppy
- Motivation and engagement
- Emotional safety
- Consistency without coercion when training your dog
There are no intimidation tactics here — only methods that support learning and preserve the relationship between dogs and the people who love them.
Valeri’s Experience & Credentials as Dog Trainer & Behaviorist
My work is shaped by both formal education and decades of direct observation in dynamic group settings with dogs and their owners.
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) – CCPDT
- B.S. in Animal Science & Applied Behavior Analysis
- 25+ years as a professional handler and trainer
- Owner and operator of four doggie daycares in California since 2003
- Daily observation of up to 65 dogs at a time, offering deep insight into canine communication, social structure, and stress signals
I also spent two years writing a weekly advice column, “Speaking for the Dogs,” for the Lake County Record-Bee, helping pet parents better understand behavior, training choices, and canine wellbeing.
Areas of Focus
I support dogs and their people across a wide range of needs and life stages, always with an emphasis on clarity, safety, and emotional regulation.
Training & Foundations
- New Puppy Foundations
- Basic Manners & Life Skills
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
- Therapy Dog Preparation
Behavior Support
- Reactivity & Mild Aggression
- Separation Anxiety
- Confidence Building & Emotional Regulation
Sport & Enrichment
- Agility
- Flyball
- Nosework
As this area of the site continues to evolve, private training and behavior coaching options may be added for dogs who benefit from more individualized support.
Education, Advocacy & Community
This work is about more than obedience with your dog — it’s about advocacy, understanding, and access.
My goal is to share ethical, well-informed training guidance with integrity, and to make reliable information available to dog guardians from all walks of life — including those who may be financially challenged but still deserve trustworthy, science-based support.
Through this work, I share:
- Training tips and behavior insights
- Nutrition considerations for your dog’s diet
- Personal experiences from decades in the field
- Current trends and thoughtful discussions
- Inspiring videos and everyday moments that reflect the human-dog bond
Speaking for the Dogs
This page represents a fresh chapter after my original training platform was compromised — but my mission has never changed.
I am here to speak for the dogs, support the people who care for them, and promote training practices rooted in respect, compassion, and evidence.
Together, we can help dogs — and the humans who love them — thrive.
Follow Along for Ongoing Education
You can find regular training insights, discussions, and updates on my Facebook training page:
[Follow Valeri Sheme-Stallings | Professional Dog Trainer & Behavior Coaching]
