ABOUT HEATHER MAZAHRI
The heart behind Z Dog Training Academy
A mom, Certified Professional Dog Trainer, and lifelong student of behavior. For me, dog training isn’t just a job, it’s a calling rooted in connection, compassion, and curiosity.
For over 20 years, I’ve helped families turn barking, pulling, and chaos into calm homes and happier walks. But what truly drives me is growth- in dogs, in people, and in myself. Every year, I take continuing education courses in canine behavior science and positive training methods to ensure I’m always learning, evolving, and offering the most effective, ethical techniques possible.
As a mom in recovery, I understand the beautiful messiness of real life. I know how hard it can be to balance structure and grace, and that’s exactly what I bring to every training session. My approach is science-backed, compassion-forward, and built to fit into busy family life (no harsh methods, no unrealistic routines, just real progress that lasts).
The “Z” in Z Dog Training Academy comes from my two kids, Zane and Zoey, who remind me daily that patience, kindness, and consistency create the most meaningful transformations - in dogs and in people.
EVERY DOG AND EVERY PERSON DESERVES TO FEEL
SEEN, SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL
HOW WE DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY
Positive, reward-based training backed by neuroscience
Tailored curriculum for every dog and family
Unique boutique offering: Hybrid Day Camp
Ongoing support between sessions through text and phone
CREDENTIALS & PARTNERSHIPS YOU CAN TRUST
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.
SEEN
Collaborative Synergistic Learning
A collaborative approach between you, your dog, and your trainer. We emphasize cooperation, honesty, and shared responsibility, because real change happens when everyone feels seen and supported.
SAFE
Continuing Education
& Team Trainings
Since graduating from Animal Behavior College in 2012, Heather has stayed at the forefront of science-based, ethical training. Our commitment to ongoing education ensures every technique is safe, modern, and grounded in compassion.
SUCCESSFUL
Results Driven by Kindness & Connection.
We don’t believe in quick fixes, we believe in lasting results. Through personalized programs and consistent support, we help families build calm, confidence, and joy that lasts long after training ends.
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THE TEAM BEHIND THE TRANSFORMATIONS
Z Dog Training Academy is built on compassion, connection, and community. Meet the team that brings calm and confidence to every session.
MONICA
Client Care Coordinator
I'm a California girl, born and raised, but I got my bachelor's degree in biology in Pennsylvania. I worked in the pharmaceutical business for 10 years before I took a break to raise my son. I have always loved animals and I am excited to now be helping others make a comfortable home for them and their pets.
DANI
Executive Assistant
An animal lover through and through, Dani is eager to help you find the best path to support your canine companion. Raised in the San Fernando Valley, they spend their free time crafting, reading, and enjoying life with their partner, friends, and family.
CHRISTIAN
Partner & Operations Lead
Our steady hand and support behind the scenes. A Navy veteran with a calm, grounded energy, he assists with training, transport, and making sure every dog feels safe and understood. He’s also Heather’s partner in life and dogs—a true team effort. Currently enrolled in Animal Behavior College to become a certified trainer.
TESTIMONIALS
We rescued our dog Teddy very young and almost immediately ran into challenges that we now know stem from the high-energy breeds he comes from. We almost didn't know if we could keep him at one point.
Heather was a strong and calming guide through the intensity of those early puppy days. Today, because of Heather, Teddy has fully integrated into our home and hearts. Heather's training courses gave us the tools as handlers to respond to Teddy's energy thoughtfully and corrected the behaviors we struggled with the most. Her follow up with guiding homework and the support through phone and text was priceless.
We fully intend on continuing working with Heather through day camps and boarding because she is worth every penny! She is a great trainer with excellent communication skills, but more importantly a great person who loves dogs.
-Julie
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.
