Paws Together | Positive dog training in Madison, WI

Relationship-centered,

positive dog training

in Madison, WI

Real support for real-life challenges, tailored for what you need, grounded in science, kindness and empathy.

"I could not be more thankful for our trainer's positive attitude and non-judgmental approach to training. It helped me look at some of the behaviors we struggled with from a fresh perspective."

—Taylor (Timmy’s mom)
"Elissa is an incredible person to work with. She found ways to help reduce and redirect our dog's overly excited greeting behavior that both we and our dog found fun to practice! Who said an old dog can’t learn new tricks! Could not recommend her enough!"

—Sydney (Monty’s mom)
"Elissa was so helpful and thoughtful in her suggestions and work with our new dog! As a new pet owner, I loved her fear-free approach and saw so much learning and growth in my dog in just a few sessions. I would recommend her to anyone."

—Rachel (Vincent’s mom)
"Elissa clearly knows a lot about dogs and the ways they learn. We came away from each session with at least one or two new skills to practice and perspective about how to practice..."

—Mason (Stella’s dad)

Serving communities in and around Madison, WI, including:

Madison, Waunakee, Windsor, DeForest, Sun Prairie, Monona, Westport, Fitchburg, Middleton, McFarland, Cottage Grove, Verona, Stoughton, and Oregon.*

Virtual services provided anywhere with internet access.

*Not all services are offered in all towns. Please email, text or call to inquire.

Services

Life skills and manners

Loose-leash walking
Polite greetings
Coming when called
Settling in the house
Engagement and communication

Behavior challenges

Leash reactivity
Fear-based behaviors including stranger-danger
Low-stress vet visits and grooming

Puppy Training

Potty training
Healthy puppy socialization
Nipping, biting and jumping
Prevention of future behavior challenges

schedule free introductory call

What to expect when you book with me

Sessions can be held in your home, in public, or virtually.

Initial Assessment: During our first session, we'll spend considerable time reviewing your dog's history, discussing your specific goals, and assessing the current situation. This ensures I can provide the most appropriate recommendations and support tailored to you and your dog.
Collaborative Planning: Throughout our sessions, we'll examine what behaviors are occurring, identify the contexts and triggers, and establish clear priorities based on what matters most to you and your family.
Customized Training Solutions: I'll provide hands-on training exercises and practical management strategies designed specifically for your home environment, daily routine, and lifestyle.
Detailed Follow-Up: After each session, you'll receive comprehensive written notes outlining each training exercise, management technique, and next steps to ensure you have clear guidance between visits.
Ongoing Support: Between sessions, I'm available via email or text to help troubleshoot challenges and answer questions as they arise. For some clients, this may also include additional hands-on support such as day training sessions, decompression walks, or puppy socialization outings, where I work directly with your dog to provide focused practice and skill-building outside of our sessions together.

My mission is to cultivate joyful relationships based on trust and communication between you and your dog through compassionate training.

Every behavior has a reason. You and your dog will be met with empathy and understanding — without judgement — as we explore what’s behind each challenge.

Ready to Start Understanding Your Dog Better?

Book a free 15 minute call now!

Step 1. Get in touch

Book a time for me to call you (for free);

or send me an email

Step 2. Initial consultation

We will meet at a time and place that we decide together, often at your home or virtually. At this first meeting, we will lay the groundwork for the work we will do together. I will get to learn about you, your animal and their environment, so that I can tailor solutions specific and sustainable for you lifestyle and goals.

After our meeting, I will send you follow up notes with resources, and I’m available for questions and troubleshooting!

Step 3. Book follow up sessions, packages, or supplementary services

We will find a schedule and cadence that works to keep you accountable and making progress towards your goals.

Relationship-centered,

positive dog training

in Madison, WI

Real support for real-life challenges, tailored for what you need, grounded in science, kindness and empathy.

"I could not be more thankful for our trainer's positive attitude and non-judgmental approach to training. It helped me look at some of the behaviors we struggled with from a fresh perspective."

"Elissa is an incredible person to work with. She found ways to help reduce and redirect our dog's overly excited greeting behavior that both we and our dog found fun to practice! Who said an old dog can’t learn new tricks! Could not recommend her enough!"

"Elissa was so helpful and thoughtful in her suggestions and work with our new dog! As a new pet owner, I loved her fear-free approach and saw so much learning and growth in my dog in just a few sessions. I would recommend her to anyone."

"Elissa clearly knows a lot about dogs and the ways they learn. We came away from each session with at least one or two new skills to practice and perspective about how to practice..."