About Pawsitive Puppy Training
Hi! I’m Sherri, and I’m here to help you build a happy, loving, and effortless bond with your new family member. Also seen in the photo is Emma, my 9 year-old English Labrador. When I adopted my first dog almost thirty years ago, I immersed myself in understanding canine behavior and training methods. It became readily apparent that putting in the time and effort from the very beginning was much easier — and less stressful — than trying to correct problems later on. Madison (my first dog) became a fantastic example of "training done right", and I've continued to hone my techniques and knowledge ever since.
Over the past 25 years I have worked with many people who had difficulty getting their dogs to obey even the most basic of commands; undoing months or years of learned behaviors is frustrating for everyone. I've also worked with many people from the moment their puppy has come home. Those sessions are full of excitement, feelings of accomplishment, and relief that their puppy is on their way to being a well-behaved dog. Is it any wonder that I now work exclusively with puppies?!
I offer two training options: in-home training at your residence or boarding-based training at mine. In-home training is available throughout most of the Denver Metro area, and I’m happy to discuss whether your location and schedule align with my availability. Boarding-based training is offered on a very limited basis and is not constrained by where you live. More information on each option is below
Additionally, if you are picking from a litter, I can help you select the best puppy for your needs by conducting puppy temperament testing on your top three choices. This testing evaluates ten specific personality traits — such as sound sensitivity, submissiveness, and touch sensitivity — allowing insight into each puppy’s strengths and challenges. It's ideal for discovering if the pup you like the look of is just as compatible on the inside. After all, if you're a couch potato you most likely don't want a pup that is high energy, and if you are hoping to adopt an adventure buddy you don't want a pup that's easily startled.
Why choose to board?
What's included in your package?
What's included in your package?
Bringing a new puppy home is such an exciting time—but it can also feel overwhelming. Potty training, nipping, crate adjustment, and learning how to communicate effectively with your pup are no small tasks. That’s why having your puppy professionally trained is a smart investment — it makes the early months smoother and sets your new love up for long-term success.
The first four months of a puppy’s life are a crucial learning period, where habits (both good and bad) take hold quickly. I understand how to make the most of this window, using proven techniques to teach foundational behaviors like sit, stay, come, potty training, and crate, while also helping to curb issues like excessive barking, jumping, or chewing.
Training isn’t just about commands—it’s about building a strong bond between you and your puppy. When you learn how to understand and respond to your puppy’s behavior in consistent, positive ways, it strengthens trust and communication. A well-trained dog is not just more obedient, but also more connected and responsive to their owner.
The first few months of a puppy’s life are a crucial learning period, where habits (both good and bad) take hold quickly. Professional trainers understand how to make the most of this window, using proven techniques to teach foundational behaviors like sit, stay, come, potty training, and crate training, while also helping to curb issues such as excessive barking, jumping, or chewing.
Having a professional guide you through the process also reduces stress and guesswork. Instead of spending hours researching solutions or getting conflicting advice, you’ll have a plan that’s tailored to your puppy’s personality and your lifestyle. That means more peace of mind and more time to simply enjoy your puppy.
What's included in your package?
What's included in your package?
What's included in your package?
Boarding with me isn’t just a “drop off and hope for the best” situation. I am deeply committed to helping every family build a strong, lasting bond with their dog, and I believe success comes from clear communication and setting the right foundation.
When your puppy boards with me, you’ll stay informed every step of the way. I’ll send you daily photos or videos along with updates on their day. When it’s time for your puppy to return home, you’ll receive a comprehensive package that includes:
- A summary of every lesson your puppy was taught, including handouts outlining the steps for each of the basic commands (come, sit, stay, leave it, drop, place, and off)
- An assessment of their progress with each command and behavior taught
- Notes on any areas of concern or special considerations
- Videos of me working through commands with your puppy, demonstrating posture, tone, and movement
- Many essential training and puppy supplies that were used during their time with me. This includes, at minimum, a collar, a drag leash, multiple chew toys, a grooming tool, and treats — all carefully selected to save you time and hassle, and contribute to a seamless adjustment.
Why choose in-home training?
What's included in your training?
What's included in your training?
While board-and-train programs offer a fully immersive experience for your puppy, in-home training is a great option for families who want to be more directly involved in the process. It’s ideal if you prefer your puppy to stay home with you while still receiving professional support, structure, and guidance.
With in-home training, your puppy learns right where they live — in your home, with your routines, and in the environment where good behavior matters most. We can work on real-life scenarios like greeting guests at the door, walking calmly through your neighborhood, or settling down in your living room. It’s practical, personalized, and tailored to your everyday life.
This option also gives you a more hands-on role. You’ll be there for the lessons, learning exactly what to do and why. It’s a great way to build your own confidence while strengthening the bond between you and your pup. Instead of having the training done for you, we do it together — with your puppy learning from you, in your voice, and in your home.
In-home sessions are also flexible and convenient. We work around your schedule and focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s crate training, basic commands, leash walking, or addressing specific challenges like nipping or jumping.
What's included in your training?
What's included in your training?
What's included in your training?
I offer a package of seven 1-hour in-home sessions, ideally starting the day you bring your puppy home or soon thereafter*. We will meet seven times over two weeks, and by the end of our time together your puppy will have been taught the essential commands of sit, stay, come, leave it, drop, off, and place. Handouts with lesson recaps and space for your notes will be provided at every session.
Your puppy will also begin responding to their name and learning how to properly walk on a leash, and I will help you navigate the trials of potty training, puppy biting, and unwanted chewing.
Training with me goes beyond our in-person sessions; I’ll be available to answer your questions anytime in the future as well if you need support with the commands and lessons we cover. My goal is to create a strong foundation for clear communication and lasting obedience.
* If desired, one session can be used pre-arrival to help prepare you and your home.
Pawsitive Feedback
Bean and Brownie's family
Bean and Brownie's family
Bean and Brownie's family
Thank you for all of your communication, photos, and video updates! They obviously learned so much while with you, and had a great time too. It was like they went to puppy camp!
Murphy's family
Bean and Brownie's family
Bean and Brownie's family
The most helpful part was Sherri's patience and reassuring nature that we could do proper training. Seeing results immediately under her guidance, calm demeanor, and clear wealth of knowledge made the experience a positive and rewarding time.
Peaches' family
Bean and Brownie's family
Peaches' family
Thanks for all of your help - we're noticing a huge difference! A neighbor complimented me this week on her change in behavior and asked about the training we were doing. We also got a compliment from her doggy daycare about her walking on the leash. They said they noticed a big difference!!
Louie's family
Bean and Brownie's family
Peaches' family
We've noticed such an improvement in Louie's behavior. He is much better with the kids, and also responding consistently to sit, stay, and off. Thank you so much for your help!