Business Details
Your Trusted Partner for Dog Training & Care in Austin
Hearts and Paws has been dedicated to enhancing the bond between dogs and their owners for over 25 years. Our team of certified professionals specializes in reward-based training methods, offering tailored programs such as group classes, private lessons, and behavior counseling. We provide comprehensive services including daycare, boarding, and advanced dog sports training, ensuring every canine receives personalized care. Founded by Diana Smith, a Certified Pet Dog Trainer with extensive expertise in canine behavior, we combine decades of experience with ongoing education from leading experts in the field.Our facility in North Austin features climate-controlled spaces and structured playgroups to meet the physical and social needs of every dog. We prioritize transparency, ethical practices, and client education, fostering trust through consistent communication and measurable results. With a focus on long-term relationships, we aim to address both immediate behavioral challenges and lifelong companionship goals.
Services
Dog Training
Boarding
Daycare
Private Lessons
Group Classes
Behavior Counseling
Dog Sports
Nosework
Agility Training
Club Pup Camp
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in professional dog training.
- Our team consists of Certified Professional Dog Trainers.
- We use reward-based, humane training methods.
- We offer 24/7 daycare and boarding services.
- We provide personalized behavior counseling for specific issues.
Associations and certifications
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
- Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Evaluator
What people say
Well-behaved dogs
Caring staff
Effective training
Happy and tired dogs
Excellent results
Services
Dog Training Programs
Our reward-based training programs address basic obedience, behavior modification, and advanced skills. Certified trainers work with puppies and adult dogs to improve manners, reduce problem behaviors, and strengthen owner-dog relationships. Services include group classes, private lessons, and board-and-train options.
Boarding Services
Our climate-controlled boarding facility offers safe, supervised stays with playgroups tailored to each dog's temperament. Includes daily enrichment activities, personalized attention, and optional training sessions. Reservations are required for overnight stays.
Daycare
Daily supervised play sessions in secure outdoor yards and indoor spaces. Dogs socialize in groups matched to their energy levels, with options for enrichment activities like fetch, hikes, and treat-based games. Requires prior assessment for new clients.
Private Lessons
Customized training sessions held at our facility, client homes, or public locations. Focus on specific goals like leash walking, house-training, or behavior issues. Trainers provide homework exercises to reinforce skills between lessons.
Dog Sports Classes
Agility, nosework, rally obedience, and lure coursing classes develop physical and mental skills. Programs range from beginner to advanced levels, preparing dogs for competitions while strengthening handler-dog teamwork through structured, engaging activities.
People
Diana Smith
Founder & Canine Behaviorist
Certified Pet Dog Trainer with 25+ years of experience. Studied under leading behaviorists and developed Club Pup Kids Camp. Specializes in behavior modification and competitive dog sports.
Paul Mann
Behaviorist
Certified trainer specializing in private lessons and behavior counseling. Focuses on resolving aggression, anxiety, and reactivity issues using science-based methods.
Kathryn Butts
Nosework Instructor
CPDT-KA certified instructor teaching scent detection classes. Helps dogs develop natural hunting instincts through structured nosework training programs.
Anthony Carlin
Class Instructor
Experienced trainer leading group classes and private lessons. Specializes in basic obedience and preparing dogs for advanced training challenges.
Questions
What training programs do you offer?
We provide group classes, private lessons, board-and-train programs, and behavior counseling. Specialized options include puppy training, obedience, and dog sports.
Are your trainers certified?
Yes, all trainers are Certified Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA) with expertise in reward-based methods and behavior modification.
What are your boarding hours?
Boarding drop-off: Weekdays 7-9am, weekends 8-10am. Pick-up: 4-6:30pm daily. Advance reservations are required.
Do you offer daycare services?
Yes, daycare is available seven days a week. Includes supervised playgroups, enrichment activities, and socialization opportunities for dogs.
How do I schedule a private lesson?
Email Paul Mann to arrange on-site, in-home, or public setting lessons. Packages of three or more sessions are available at discounted rates.
What dog sports classes are available?
We offer agility, nosework, rally obedience, lure coursing, and AKC trick training with structured curricula for novice to advanced competitors.
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