Welcome!
Our Mission
At Groovy Paws Training, we use kind, compassionate, and dog-centered methods to help owners build strong, joyful relationships with their dogs. Through positive reinforcement and a deep understanding of each dog's individual needs, we make training empowering, effective, and fun - for both ends of the leash.
What Makes Our Training Groovy
At Groovy Paws, we believe training should build trust—not fear. That’s why we follow the LIMA Principle: the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive approach. In everyday terms? No yelling, no yanking, no intimidation—just science-backed, reward-based training that helps dogs learn in a way that feels good.
We focus on reinforcing the good stuff and setting your pup up for success, so training becomes something you both enjoy. Because when dogs feel safe, supported, and understood, that’s when the real groove happens.
Meet The Team!
Meet Dakota - The Heart Behind Groovy Paws Training
Hi there! I’m Dakota—the owner, trainer, and proud pack leader behind Groovy Paws Training. If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s this: dogs have always had my heart.
I grew up surrounded by them, and over the years, that love turned into something more—a calling. My own pups—Max, Ginger, and Memphis—aren’t just my companions; they’re the inspiration behind everything I do (you might recognize their names in our class titles!).
But the road to dog training wasn’t a straight one. It actually began in a different kind of classroom…
From Teaching Kids to Training Dogs
I originally set out to become an elementary school teacher. I’ve always loved helping others learn—but once I got into the classroom, I realized it wasn’t quite the right fit. I eventually found myself in an office job, and while it paid the bills, it left me feeling like something was missing.
Teaching had given me purpose—and I missed that. So I asked myself:
"What if I could combine my love for teaching with something I’ve always been passionate about—dogs?"
That one question changed everything. It led me to dog training, and I haven’t looked back since.
Helping dogs and their people connect in meaningful ways is what fills my heart. I get to witness shy pups grow confident, see struggling owners find their groove, and watch relationships transform through understanding, patience, and trust. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing joy on both ends of the leash.
We want to create a world where no dog is surrendered due to behavioral challenges—where training is accessible, stress-free, and rooted in love. We envision a community of empowered dog owners, bonded not only to their pups but to one another, all working together to keep dogs happy, confident, and in their forever homes.
Why I Love What I Do
