Jessie Sanfillippo, KPA CTP, CPDT-KA

Jessie Sanfillippo, KPA CTP, CPDT-KA
Dog Trainer

I train dogs in classes, private lessons, and Turnkey Training. In addition, I am a Canine Good Citizen evaluator with the American Kennel Club.

Certifications and Education

• I earned my CTP certification at the Karen Pryor Academy, one of the leading schools for people to become dog trainers.





• I also earned my CPDT-KA certification (Certified Pet Dog Trainer).





• I graduated from Elmhurst University with a Bachelors of Science in Biology.

Work Experience

I originally started at Tucker Pup's as a dog handler, and worked my way up from Staff Trainer to Staff Supervisor, then eventually dog trainer. I trained dogs in our Dropoff Training, Puppy Socials, and Stay and Train programs before moving to classes and private lessons.

Why I Became a Dog Trainer

Before working at Tucker Pup's, I had my first introduction to positive reinforcement training at the Shedd Aquarium. At the Shedd, I volunteered, interned, and eventually held multiple temporary positions in the marine mammals department, which included rescue dogs! While assisting in the training of beluga whales and dolphins was an absolute dream, it was the rescue dogs that were the most inspiring. All of the dogs at Shedd were surrendered to Chicago shelters for various behavior issues. Watching the Shedd trainers transform these pups with troubled pasts into literal show dogs was life-changing. This experience helped solidify my belief that all dogs are trainable and can be transformed into well-behaved members of the family.

My Dog

I have a pit bull / Lab mix named Wade. Together, we want to spread the joy and bond created through positive reinforcement training with as many people and their dogs in our community as possible. I believe that training can and should always be fun for both dog and human.