Suzanne Parker standing on an ocean-view boardwalk holding two dogs on leash, representing Suzanne Parker Doggie School’s real-world, on-location training approach.

Meet Suzanne Parker, Your Expert Dog Trainer

Suzanne Parker, a Certified Dog Trainer (CDT), brings over 26 years of experience to dog owners in North San Diego County and South Orange County, California. After decades of serving families in the Pacific Northwest, she’s now dedicated to helping Southern California dogs and their people build stronger, more harmonious relationships.

Train with Suzanne

My Philosophy: Relationship-Based Training

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    Training begins with trust. A dog who feels safe and understood can relax, listen, and grow.

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    Clear communication builds confidence. When guidance is calm and consistent, dogs learn to respond with trust.

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    Humane methods matter. No harsh tools, no fear, just respect, patience, and steady leadership.

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    Owners are part of the process. Training works best when both dog and human learn together.

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    Real-world practice creates lasting results. Skills are taught in everyday settings so they hold up anywhere.

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    Connection over control. A relationship rooted in trust lasts far longer than quick fixes or force.

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A Lifetime of Experience in Dog Behavior

Suzanne's extensive background includes running successful dog trail-running businesses (Tails on Trails, OC Tails on Trails) for two decades. During this time, she trained packs of dogs for off-leash recall, advanced socialization, and essential rattlesnake avoidance training. Her hands-on experience with diverse breeds and temperaments, including her own challenging Rottweiler, Sierra, provided invaluable insights into canine behavior. Suzanne also benefited from mentorship under a Certified Animal Behaviorist, shaping her comprehensive understanding of dog psychology.

A dog on a leash walking on a wooden trail through a forest with sunlight filtering through trees.

Certifications and Commitment to Excellence

As a proud member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and an AKC-approved evaluator, Suzanne maintains the highest standards in dog training. She is actively pursuing her CPDT-KA certification, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to professional development and staying current with the latest dog training methods and techniques. Suzanne regularly attends advanced classes and shadows other accomplished trainers to continually enhance her expertise.

International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP) Professional Member badge, representing Suzanne Parker Doggie School’s commitment to high standards in dog training.

Specializing in Reactive Dog Training

One of Suzanne's most profound passions is reactive dog training. Having successfully rehabilitated her own formerly reactive dogs, Max (a Fox Red Labrador) and Batman (a French Bulldog), she deeply understands the challenges faced by owners of reactive dogs. Her personal journey, detailed further on the Reactive Dog Bootcamp page, fuels her dedication to teaching effective strategies for managing and overcoming reactivity. She offers specialized reactive dog bootcamps and private sessions to help dogs regain confidence and calmness.

Suzanne Parker standing on a sunny trail with two dogs, showcasing her hands-on training style and dedication to helping dogs and owners thrive through Suzanne Parker Doggie School.

Passion for Transforming Lives

Suzanne's passion lies in transforming the lives of dogs and their owners. She excels in both group dog training classes and personalized behavior modification sessions. Witnessing the moment a dog and owner connect and communicate effectively is her greatest reward. This deep connection is vital for successful training and a fulfilling relationship.

Border Collie running through weave poles on a training field, demonstrating the reactive dog training and agility skills taught at Suzanne Parker Doggie School.

Your Partner in Dog Training Success

Your Partner in Dog Training Success

Suzanne Parker posing with Santa, a young boy, and multiple dogs in front of a decorated Christmas tree, highlighting the warm, community-centered spirit of Suzanne Parker Doggie School.

Suzanne Parker is dedicated to providing individualized dog training solutions that lead to lifelong success. Her belief that every dog and owner learns differently ensures a tailored approach to your specific needs. Contact Suzanne today to start your journey towards a well-behaved and happy dog.

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✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • Unlike methods that rely on harsh corrections or constant treats, relationship-based training builds trust, clarity, and confidence between you and your dog. The result is cooperation that lasts—because your dog is choosing to work with you, not against you.

  • No. Suzanne’s philosophy avoids harsh tools and food distractions during reactivity training. Instead, she uses her Building Trust on Leash (BTL) Method, inspired by natural horsemanship and the Trust Technique, which is calm, humane, and highly effective.

  • Yes. This is one of Suzanne’s specialties. She has successfully worked with countless reactive dogs (including her own) and offers both private sessions and Reactive Dog Bootcamps to address these challenges.

  • All ages—from 12-week-old puppies in our Perfect Puppy Class to adolescent and adult dogs who need structure, reactivity help, or confidence-building.

  • Suzanne provides in-person training across North San Diego County and South Orange County, California. Some programs, like the Reactive Dog Bootcamp, are also available to clients who travel in.

  • Suzanne has extensive experience with high-energy working breeds, strong-willed personalities, and reactive dogs. She also offers specialized support for French Bulldogs and new puppies.