Positive Touch Dog Training
At Positive Touch Dog Training, we are committed to enhancing the bond between you and your dogs through positive and effective force-free training.
We offer a holistic approach to Canine Coaching by providing support that focuses on the whole dog...physical, emotional and social well being.
Since 2005, we have been helping pet parents and their pets in the Tampa Bay area. We cater to all breeds and behaviors, ensuring a harmonious relationship that lasts a lifetime.
About
Our Story
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I am a passionate animal lover and advocate. From the moment I got my first dog, a rescued Border Collie mix named "Jo", I knew exactly what I was destined to do.
I am a force free/fear free dog trainer, and I want to help those pet parents that are ready to make the commitment to help their dogs to be the best dog possible.
There are no magic wands or secret words. This is our world, and it is up to us to help and guide our dogs in a safe and positive way to make “our world” a bit less scary for them.
A few things to remember:
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Your dog is never trying to be the boss or dominate you and please don’t buy into the myth that you need to show your dog that you are “the Alpha” over them.
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Your dog is not giving you a hard time – Your dog is having a hard time!
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Don’t ask me to “fix” your dog – Your dog is not broken.
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Your dog does not speak our language.
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“NO” is not a behavior.
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And most important- There is NEVER a reason to use anything other than Positive Reinforcement to train your dog!
If you’re ready to focus less on “obedience” and more on building a relationship and bond with your dog based on love and trust…If you’re ready to focus NOT on “commands” but more on “communication” and understanding what your dog is “saying” …If you’re ready to commit to “coaching” your dog with patience and consistency…Let’s Chat!
Proper training is an essential part of good and responsible animal care. As a pet professional in the Tampa Bay area since 2005, I’ve had the pleasure of helping a lot of dogs and their "humans".
Training that centers solely on the convenience of the clients, rather than the needs of the dog, will likely be detrimental to the dog’s welfare.
As a professional, that is something that I must always remember.
While it is always important to understand your needs and concerns as my client, and do my utmost to provide you with support, I cannot and will not do this at the dog's expense!
As a canine coach, I welcome the opportunity to help you and your dog, though it may not always be what you expect. I will help you to know and understand your dog better, to learn how to provide for their needs and to "listen" to what they are "saying". I can show you how to be their advocate and how to help them feel safer and more confident. I will show you how to build a lifelong bond with your dog based on trust.
THE MOST IMPORTANT WORD FOR YOUR DOG TO LEARN...
Your dog’s name is hopefully the single most important word your dog hears. Since your dog lives with humans and humans talk a lot, your dog’s name is critical for your dog to understand for safety and happiness. So, teaching ‘Response to Name’ is crucial and why it is the first thing we focus on at
Positive Touch Dog Training
A solid response to name will lead to success in most, if not all, future training!
PLEASE REMEMBER A FEW VERY IMPORTANT THINGS...
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Don't ask us to "fix" your dog - Your dog is not broken
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Your dog is NEVER giving you a hard time - Your dog is having a hard time
Our coaching sessions are initially one-on-one in your home, however, depending on your dogs coaching needs, we may also work at other safe, dog friendly locations.
Each session is built around your dogs specific training needs.
Each session is approx. 45 minutes
Handouts are provided
Services
Testimonials
Just two weeks after adopting Reba ( 3 years old) from the SPCA, I made an appointment with Neil to come meet us and possibly hire him to help me train my new four-legged best friend. Neil shared a plethora of information with me about dogs, food, behaviors, and even down to what type of harness would work best for my dog. Reba and I are rounding our three month anniversary together and she listens, she doesn’t jump on people, she comes when she’s called, and most importantly she walks like a champ on the leash. Dog training is more about training the owner then it is the dog. And Neil is just fantastic I highly recommend him whether you have a new dog, a dog you’ve had a while, a purebred, or a mixed rescue. Neil is your guy!
Melissa & "Reba"
I met Neil while working at Bark Life in Seminole! I had just adopted my dog, Minnie and brought her into my home with my GSD, Karma. They did well together, until they didn't. Neil has helped me tremendously through strictly positive reinforcement methods and coaching me through every day life with my dogs! He has taught me so much about learning to bond and live the best life possible with my best friend
Melissa & "Minnie"
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Neil. His love, compassion and knowledge for dogs has been his passion for over 30 years. There is nobody else I would trust more with my own dogs than him. His extensive background in positive reinforcement training as well as pet health & nutrition just adds an extra bonus knowing he wants nothing but the best for every dog he meets & cares for. I highly recommend Neil for your pet care needs. You won’t be disappointed!
Dayal Santosuosso / "Keira & Leroy"
South Tampa Dog Walking
Owner~Founder
Kim & "Jameson"
Gratitude for Positive Touch Dog Training
I’ve known Neil since junior high, and his love for dogs has always been a core part of who he is. Today, that compassion shines through every aspect of Positive Touch Dog Training.
Neil has continued to support me and has helped Jameson and I work through some challenging times and Neil has been a steady, compassionate presence through difficult health moments. His approach is rooted in kindness, understanding, and respect for the unique bond we share with our animals.
He’s not just a brilliant trainer—he’s someone who honors that bond and helps nurture it. If you're searching for someone whose work is defined by empathy and integrity, I wholeheartedly recommend Positive Touch Dog Training.