THE TOP 50 BEST DOG TRAINERS IN THE WORLD

Below is a ranking list of fifty (50) of the most prominent canine professionals (trainers, behavior consultants, applied animal behaviorists, and veterinary behaviorists) according to perceived authority and influence in the field. Factors considered include scientific contributions, clinical work, published works, professional leadership, public visibility, and overall impact on evidence-based, humane canine behavior practices. It is important to note that many equally qualified experts could appear on any such list, and omission does not imply lesser expertise.

1. Dr. Ian Dunbar (BVetMed, MRCVS, PhD) has pioneered public education on dog-friendly training and early puppy socialization. His establishment of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) and advocacy for off-leash puppy classes have influenced countless pet guardians and professionals (Dunbar, 2004).
2. Dr. Karen Overall (MA, VMD, PhD, DACVB), a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, has led the integration of clinical behavior medicine into mainstream veterinary practice. Her research on psychopharmacology and compulsive disorders has shaped protocols for anxiety and aggression (Overall, 2013).
3. Dr. Patricia McConnell (PhD, CAAB) is recognized for bridging ethology and dog training, emphasizing the emotional lives of dogs and the importance of reading canine communication. Her work (e.g., The Other End of the Leash) has served as a cornerstone in contemporary behavior-modification practices (McConnell, 2003).
4. Jean Donaldson (CDBC) transformed how pet parents and professionals understand canine cognition with her seminal text The Culture Clash, emphasizing a strict adherence to modern learning theory. Her Academy for Dog Trainers continues to standardize scientific training curricula (Donaldson, 1996).
5. Dr. Nicholas Dodman (BVMS, DACVB) has been a major force in veterinary behavior, blending pharmacological and behavior-modification strategies. Formerly directing Tufts University’s Animal Behavior Clinic, he continues to publish research on companion-animal anxieties and compulsions (Dodman, 2015).
6. Ken Ramirez is an internationally renowned behaviorist with a background in marine mammal training, who applies advanced operant conditioning across species, including canines. His leadership roles with Karen Pryor Clicker Training have expanded global understanding of positive-reinforcement methodologies.
7. Dr. Sophia Yin (DVM, MS, 1966–2014) revolutionized low-stress handling and practical applications of behavior science in veterinary settings. Her legacy endures through Low Stress Handling® techniques that remain a gold standard for minimizing fear and anxiety in clinical and home environments (Yin, 2009).
8. Michael Shikashio (CDBC) specializes in canine aggression, offering seminars worldwide and consulting on highly complex cases. Through his AggressiveDog.com platform and emphasis on safety protocols, he has raised industry standards in addressing severe reactivity and aggression.
9. Victoria Stilwell is well-known internationally for showcasing force-free, positive approaches to canine behavior on her television show It’s Me or the Dog. Through the Victoria Stilwell Academy, she mentors trainers in modern, science-based methods that prioritize welfare and empathy.
10. Will Bangura (MS, CAB-ICB, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, FFCP) brings over 35 years of direct experience in canine behavior modification, including complex anxiety and aggression cases. Known for integrating peer-reviewed research into comprehensive, step-by-step training protocols, he also hosts “Dog Training Today,” which extends his educational outreach to pet guardians and professionals alike. In addition, he has published over 100 articles and two books on canine behavior.
11. Chirag Patel is recognized for championing cooperative care and choice-based training. With a global roster of seminars, he demonstrates how giving dogs agency, especially during handling and husbandry procedures, reduces stress and fosters trust.
12. Susan Garrett is a prominent agility competitor who applies motivational and precision-based positive techniques to cultivate peak performance in sport dogs. Her influence extends to pet-guardian communities, emphasizing reward-focused skill-building and the strategic use of reinforcement schedules.
13. Dr. Daniel Mills (BVSc, PhD, CBiol, FRSB), a veterinary behaviorist at the University of Lincoln (UK), is acclaimed for his scientific research on canine olfaction, cognition, and welfare. He has co-authored numerous peer-reviewed studies clarifying the dog-human bond.
14. Dr. Chris Pachel (DVM, DACVB) is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist recognized for bridging comprehensive veterinary care with humane, science-based training. His casework and lectures spotlight the importance of medical-behavioral collaboration in resolving complex problems.
15. Dr. John Ciribassi (DVM, DACVB) has served as president of the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, promoting the integration of behavior knowledge into standard veterinary curricula. His published material addresses anxiety, aggression, and environmental enrichment.
16. Grisha Stewart (MA, CPDT-KA) developed Behavior Adjustment Training (BAT), a protocol focusing on empowerment and stress reduction for fearful and reactive dogs. Her publications on BAT have led many trainers to incorporate systematic desensitization and functional rewards.
17. Dr. Marty Becker (DVM), known as “America’s Veterinarian,” has been instrumental in the Fear Free® initiative, aiming to reduce the stress that pets experience in clinical and home settings. Though best known for his media presence, his emphasis on emotional welfare has influenced many pet guardians and practitioners.
18. Dr. Lore I. Haug (DVM, MS, DACVB) is a well-respected veterinary behaviorist who has researched pharmacological interventions in parallel with behavior-modification protocols. She consults on advanced cases of anxiety, aggression, and OCD-like presentations in dogs.
19. Dr. Amy Cook (PhD) applies her background in psychology and learning theory to canine behavior. She has contributed to several conferences focusing on the emotional underpinnings of reactivity and the importance of systematic desensitization.
20. Dr. Deb Jones (PhD) merges academic research on learning processes with practical training frameworks. She is particularly known for her stepwise approach to building reliable behaviors through shaping, targeting, and refined marker use.
21. Malena DeMartini (CDBC) is an authority on separation-related problems, authoring widely utilized protocols to systematically address the root of separation anxiety. Her work underscores incremental independence training and precise behavior metrics.
22. Linda Michaels (MA) created the Hierarchy of Dog Needs®, a welfare-based blueprint for trainers that prioritizes emotional and physical health. She advocates for force-free methods in both private practice and broader policy initiatives.
23. Andrew Hale (BSc, ISCP) focuses on canine emotional welfare, stressing that trainers and behavior consultants must address the dog’s underlying emotional state. His wide-reaching webinars and collaborations have brought attention to stress, fear, and resilience-building.
24. Karen Pryor pioneered clicker training in marine mammal contexts before translating it to dogs. Although she is semi-retired, her early publications and seminars helped popularize marker-based training and shaped the modern “positive reinforcement movement.”
25. Kathy Sdao (MA, ACAAB), a former marine mammal trainer, is lauded for her nuanced application of operant conditioning to canines. She is also a widely requested speaker, breaking down the mechanics of reinforcement-based protocols into accessible terms.
26. Dr. Karen London (PhD) is an applied animal behaviorist and certified trainer who publishes extensively on canine aggression and the human-canine bond. She consults on nuanced behavior issues, bringing an academic lens to everyday training contexts.
27. Dr. Meghan Herron (DVM, DACVB) has produced significant research on fear-free handling and the effects of aversive tools. Her role in veterinary education encourages a standardized approach to integrating behavior into routine practice.
28. Dr. E’lise Christensen (DVM, DACVB) is a veterinary behaviorist specializing in severe aggression and anxiety disorders. Her practice emphasizes a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, appropriate medication, and structured behavior-modification plans.
29. Angelica Steinker (MS, CDBC) is known for her play-based approach to behavior modification, especially with reactive and aggressive dogs. Through her company, Courteous Canine, she has guided many trainers toward fun, engaging protocols.
30. Emily Larlham (Kikopup) has gained a worldwide following via in-depth video tutorials on clicker training. Her approach to “cross-over” training—transitioning from traditional or correction-based methods—has influenced thousands of pet guardians.
31. Emma Parsons (BA, KPA CTP) authored Click to Calm: Healing the Aggressive Dog and has specialized in aggression rehabilitation for years. Her seminars and writings emphasize clear communication and strategic desensitization for reactivity.
32. Annie Phenix (CPDT-KA) writes books and articles stressing a “relationship-based” approach, advocating that trainers prioritize trust and patience. Her work, including The Midnight Dog Walkers, has guided many pet parents grappling with challenging behaviors.
33. Denise Fenzi is widely recognized in the dog-sport community, teaching that high-level obedience and competition performance can be achieved without aversive tools. The Fenzi Dog Sports Academy has become a hub for progressive sport-dog training.
34. Dr. Roger Abrantes (PhD) is an ethologist who explores evolutionary continuity across species. He has trained thousands of professionals in how to blend academic insight with practical application of learning theory and behavior analysis.
35. Kay Laurence is a leading voice in advanced clicker training. She pioneered innovative reward-delivery methods and fosters a deep sense of observation in trainers, stressing the importance of minimal frustration for dog well-being.
36. Terry Ryan offers training camps and instructor courses worldwide, providing foundational knowledge on how to set up group classes and private sessions using force-free methods. Her early work helped popularize clicker training among pet parents.
37. Pat Miller (CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA) authored numerous books addressing positive methods, emphasizing empathy and ethical considerations in training programs. Her phrase “dog-friendly dog training” is often cited in force-free circles.
38. Nicole Wilde (CPDT-KA) has written foundational books, such as Help for Your Fearful Dog, focusing on practical solutions for aggression, phobias, and rescue-related issues. She is known for distilling behavior science into step-by-step instructions for pet guardians.
39. Brenda Aloff uses her expertise in canine body language to help trainers and pet parents interpret subtle behavioral signals. She has authored photo-rich books that serve as references for professionals handling reactive or fearful dogs.
40. Kim Brophey (CAAB) applies her background in applied ethology to support the concept of “L.E.G.S.” (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) in training. Her approach highlights the interplay of evolutionary history and modern living conditions.
41. Mary Burch, PhD is a driving force behind the American Kennel Club’s Canine Good Citizen program. She has published research on the quantitative assessment of training outcomes and promotes standardized training benchmarks.
42. Helix Fairweather specializes in guiding trainers through clicker mechanics and advanced shaping strategies. Her seminars emphasize precision in timing and reinforcing successive approximations for reliable behavioral outcomes.
43. Dr. John Bradshaw (PhD), an anthrozoologist, has conducted extensive studies on the domestic dog’s evolutionary path. His books and academic collaborations explore the psychological and genetic origins of canine social behaviors (Bradshaw, 2011).
44. Dr. Brian Hare (PhD) of Duke University’s Canine Cognition Center integrates evolutionary anthropology with real-world applications in dog training and socialization. His public-facing research demystifies canine intelligence and learning processes.
45. Sarah Kalnajs is a behavior consultant whose DVD and manual The Language of Dogs helped translate canine body language concepts into practical guidance for trainers. She focuses on identifying stress signals before issues escalate.
46. Jennifer Shryock (CBCC-KA) created the Dogs & Storks® and Dog & Baby Connection™ programs to help expectant families integrate dogs and children safely. Her protocols are now widely used by birth professionals and dog trainers.
47. Dr. Lisa Radosta (DVM, DACVB) is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at Florida Veterinary Behavior Service. She has authored articles on the interplay of medical and environmental factors in treating aggression, fear, and compulsive behaviors.
48. Marc Bekoff (PhD) is an ethologist and prolific author who examines dogs’ emotional capacities and moral cognition. While not a trainer per se, his scientific insights have advanced the philosophical underpinnings of compassionate, welfare-focused methods.
49. Dr. Temple Grandin (PhD) is internationally recognized for her expertise in animal behavior and welfare, particularly in livestock. Though her focus is broader than canines, her emphasis on understanding sensory experiences and stress responses resonates with modern dog-behavior theory (Grandin, 2020).
50. Trish King (CPDT-KA) has led shelter behavior departments and authored materials on practical canine communication and training. Her holistic approach incorporates thorough behavioral assessments, positive reinforcement, and ongoing support for pet guardians.