Shaina Norton, CPDT-KA
Dog Trainer
My Role at Tucker Pup's
I teach private lessons and behavioral modification programs at Tucker Pup's. I specialize in helping dogs with highly challenging behaviors.Training Background
I have been working with dogs since 2009.Prior to working for Tucker Pup's, I was a behavioral modification trainer specializing in urban anxiety cases in Los Angeles, Denver, and Manhattan. This includes behaviors such as leash reactivity, stranger danger, new environments, elevator anxiety, resource guarding, and much more.
I was also the intake and rescue coordinator at a shelter in Irvine, CA, where I used my medical and behavioral knowledge to help rescue over 1,000 dogs and cats each year. I have also been an Animal Cruelty Investigator in Los Angeles and then began working in different shelters all over California. In addition, I have been a veterinary assistant, including for a veterinary behaviorist.
Certifications
I am certified as a CPDT-KA from the Certification Council of Pet Dog Trainers.
I am also Fear-Free Certified.

Why I Became a Dog Trainer
When I started my career as an Animal Cruelty Investigator, I saw firsthand how so many dogs were being surrendered to shelters for issues that could be resolved through training. It was then that I dove headfirst into learning canine body language and studying behavior modification, specializing in rehabbing dogs from rescues and shelters. I see an incredible need to help these dogs stay in their homes, and I want to do everything I can to help clients and dogs have the best life possible!Education
I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Health Science from Georgetown University in Washington, DC. I then earned a Master's Degree in Forensic Science from George Washington University.My Pets
I have two cats: Giles, a 6-year-old Exotic Shorthair, and Cornelius, a 5-year-old Persian.Testimonials
Shaina has been so so so helpful to us in figuring out the best path for Uno. Her tips and tricks for his behavioral issues have been so helpful to us, and overall she has given us great advice throughout the last couple weeks. We plan to book another turnkey training package with Shaina after the holidays as we know our dog Uno loves her and we have seen tremendous progress for Uno with her help so far. We can tell she really cares about the well-being of not only our pup but also us!
Zoe Philips
Shaina was wonderful! Over the course of three in-home sessions in the Puppy Starter Program, she was consistently punctual, professional, and incredibly thoughtful. She took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all of our questions, and made sure we covered every topic that was on our minds. What really stood out was how she tailored her approach to fit our puppy's personality, her recommendations and training tools felt perfectly customized. Our puppy absolutely loved her and responded so well to her calm, positive energy. We're very happy with everything we learned and already seeing the results. Shaina is a patient, knowledgeable, and caring trainer!
Rita Rojas
Shaina was amazing and so helpful in training my dog (who loves her!)
Annie Flores