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Heather working one-on-one with a dog in a training session in Simi Valley CA

WE TAKE THE STRESS AND GUESSWORK
OUT OF DOG TRAINING
FOR BUSY FAMILIES.

Transforming the lives of dogs & their humans through education, compassion, and personalized training.

Dog displaying common behavior issues at home chewing
og showing signs of stress or confusion before training pulling leash on walk

WHAT IF WALKS, MANNERS, AND CALM
ROUTINES ACTUALLY FELT DOABLE?

Transforming the lives of dogs & their humans through education, compassion, and personalized training.

Training your dog can feel overwhelming, especially when life is busy and routines are already full. You want to enjoy walks, playtime, and family moments - not stress over pulling, jumping, or unpredictable behavior. Z Dog Training Academy helps you take the guesswork out of training, so you and your dog can thrive together. We are not aggressive and want to provide trainings that are obtainable and long lasting.
 
We can help you with:

  • Calm, manageable walks without pulling or lunging

  • Polite greetings and manners around people and other dogs

  • Reducing chaos at home, including barking, jumping, chewing, and misbehavior

  • Building confidence and structure for puppies or newly adopted dogs

  • Practical, real-life strategies that fit your family’s busy schedule

 
Together, we will help your dog feel seen, safe & successful.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

We know dog training is an important investment for your family — and we never want finances to be the barrier to getting the support your dog needs.
 

That’s why we offer flexible payment plans through Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm, so you can train now and pay over time in a way that works for you.

HELLO, I'M HEATHER
OWNER & DOG TRAINING LEAD

Mom, Certified Dog Trainer, and lifelong student of behavior.

For over 20 years, I’ve helped families turn barking, pulling, and chaos into calm homes and happy walks. As a mom in recovery, I understand what it’s like to juggle real life while wanting the best for your dog. That’s why my approach is science-based, compassion-forward, and tailored to fit into your family’s busy schedule, no harsh methods, no unrealistic routines.

  • 20+ years of hands-on experience

  • ABCDT and ABCSDT*

  • Certified Service Dog Trainer

  • Partnered with Puppy Love Maternity Rescue

  • Continuing education every year to stay on the cutting edge of canine behavior science
     

Because every dog (and every person) deserves a second chance, and a peaceful home.

Heather working one-on-one with a dog in a training session
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THE Z DOG PROMISE:

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Empowering families with calm, confident guidance that lasts

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A heart-centered approach that brings peace, connection, and hope

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A calm, trusted partner who truly cares for your dog’s wellbeing

Heather coaching a family and their dog
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Training that fits your life, and your dog’s personality.

Whether you’re a new puppy parent or need help with behavior challenges, we offer tiered programs to meet every family where they are.

Young dog learning skills with owner during in-home coaching Simi Valley dog training

Personalized, hands-on coaching for your puppy designed to support your dog’s unique personality and your family’s daily rhythm.

Trainer guiding dogs through skills during hybrid day camp in Ventura County

We pick up your dog, train them in a small, structured environment, and return them home , so you get results without the stress

Puppy relaxing in a structured board and train home setup in Simi Valley

Full-immersion training for lasting change that blends consistent daily training with a calm, low-stress home environment.

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Printable puppy training guide with worksheets

JUST GOT A PUPPY?
START OFF ON THE RIGHT PAW!

Sign up for our free guide: Your Puppy’s First 30 Days: Calm, Confident, Connected and learn how to set up routines that stick — without the overwhelm.

YOUR DOG'S SUCCESS
IN 3 SIMPLE STEPS

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FREE BEHAVIOR CONSULTATION

We learn about your dog, your family, and your goals.

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TAILORED TRAINING PLAN

Programs designed to fit your lifestyle and dog’s personality.

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SUPPORT EVERY STEP OF THE WAY

Hands-on coaching, videos, and check-ins to ensure lasting results.

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Dog sitting calmly after completing training program with Z Dog Training Academy in Simi Valley CA
Z Dog Training Academy in Simi Valley CA client testimonials

TESTIMONIALS

We were recommended with Heather the trainer through the rescue company we adopted our dog from. As it was my first dog it was very important I learn to properly take care of my dog as he learns to be at his new home. Heather was very good at giving us all the tips on how we needed to both respect each other as well as properly take care of a pet that comes from a broken past. We did a package of training classes and I truly think it really helped me take care of my dog properly. I am trully thankful for the guidance we received as well as our dog learning to respect our home.

Thank you for starting our journey with dog the right way!!


-Vishal

images of dogs in Calabasas from a client testimonial
Kid smiling with dog after completing training program in Ventura CA

READY TO BRING CALM, CONFIDENCE + CONNECTION BACK TO YOUR HOME?

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SITE  NAVIGATION

FREE Puppy Workbook

CONTACT  US

Serving Ventura & Los Angeles Counties

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© 2020-2025  Z DOG TRAINING ACADEMY  |   TERMS  |  PRIVACY  |  ACCESSIBILITY

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