Nathan Woods · Dog Trainer
Santa Barbara Dog Training

Your dog listens at home. Then falls apart around other dogs, people, and distractions.

Closing that gap is what my program does. Real obedience that holds up in the real world, not just the living room.

See the Programs
Training Santa Barbara dogs since 2001  ·  A lifetime of training since age 10  ·  Over 12,000 dogs  ·  Titled through AKC's highest obedience levels
Why Me

This is not a franchise. It is my life's work.

I have been training dogs since I was ten years old, and running my Santa Barbara practice since 2001. Over 12,000 dogs, my own and my clients', titled through AKC's highest obedience levels and into conformation championships.

Rescue dogs and tough cases are a big part of my work. I have spent a lifetime learning how dogs think and how owners and dogs learn to work together. That is what you get when you work with me.

How I Work

When the owner succeeds, the dog does great.

Most training fixes the dog and forgets the owner. I do it the other way around. Every option is built to set you up for success, because lasting results come from you and your dog learning to work together.

Real obedience is also how you fix behavior, not just manage it. That is why my training holds up around the distractions of real life, and why your dog trains and comes home every night. No kennel.

Proof

Real dogs. Real results.

Rated 4.9 stars across 49 reviews.

★★★★★

"We adopted a rescue who barked and lunged at other dogs. After Nathan's course she's one of the most well behaved dogs at the park. I never worry about her in public anymore."

— Rescue dog owner
★★★★★

"He worked with my dog in the VIP program. She went from rambunctious to a dog who knows her commands, never pulls on the leash, and walks off leash safely. A miracle worker."

— VIP program client
★★★★★

"Nathan completely transformed our Labrador. We can enjoy him to the fullest and take him everywhere. I'd recommend him to any owner struggling with their pup."

— Labrador owner
The Programs

Three ways to start. Pick what fits you.

Everything you need to get started is right here. Choose your program and book your start below.

VIP Day Training

I do the heavy lifting. Your dog trains with me Monday through Thursday and comes home every night. No kennel. 20-day or 40-day, with or without transport.

See full details → Start the VIP Program

8-Session Package

You and your dog learn together. I teach you to train your own dog, with expert guidance every step. Best for owners who want the skills themselves.

See full details → Start the 8-Session

Ultimate Puppy Program

Start your puppy right. For dogs under 16 weeks. Build the foundation before the hard habits ever form.

See full details → Start the Puppy Program

Want to meet me first?

Most people have everything they need above to get started. But if you'd rather talk first, by phone, zoom, or in person at 3210 State Street, book a free 30-minute consult. No pressure. Just a conversation about your dog.

Book a Free Consult

Common questions

Do you offer board and train in Santa Barbara?

No, and that is on purpose. My dogs train during the day and go home every night. A dog that learns to behave only inside a kennel does not hold that behavior once it comes home. Day training builds obedience that lasts because the dog learns in the same world it lives in.

How much does dog training cost?

The 8-Session Package is $600. You and your dog learn together and you come away able to train your own dog. The VIP Day Training program runs from $1,600 to $4,000 depending on length and transport, and I do the heavy lifting four days a week. The Ultimate Puppy Program is $600 for dogs under 16 weeks.

Can you help with a reactive dog?

Yes. Reactive dogs, leash lunging, and fear cases are a large part of my work. Real obedience is how you fix reactivity, not just manage it.

My puppy is young. When should training start?

The earlier the better. The Ultimate Puppy Program is built for dogs under 16 weeks, before the hard habits ever form. Starting young is the easiest training you will ever do.

Where are you located?

3210 State Street, Santa Barbara. I work with dogs from Santa Barbara, Goleta, Montecito, and Carpinteria.

Nathan Woods · Dog Trainer
Santa Barbara since 2001
805-427-9898
3210 State Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
© Nathan Woods Dog Trainer. All rights reserved.