Meet your trainer.
Hello!Hi, I'm Sam—hold on one second, I've just got to grab a squeaky toy to get Fred and Mack to look at the camera...
A few years ago, I traded in my lab coat and long 405 commutes for life on the Olympic Peninsula. I left a career in cancer research and moved to Sequim to be with my husband.
My path into dog training began through rescue work, where I became increasingly interested in why dogs behave the way they do and how their learning history, environment, and individual experiences shape behavior.
That curiosity eventually became Mellow Hound.
My background in research still influences the way I approach training today: observe carefully, ask questions, look at the whole picture, and adjust based on the dog in front of me.
My approach
I believe behavior is information. Rather than focusing only on stopping unwanted behavior, I look at the factors influencing it—including learning history, environment, arousal, reinforcement, and the individual dog.
Training focuses on building practical skills through clear communication, thoughtful progression, and repetition. Depending on the dog and the goals we're working toward, that may include regulation and engagement, management, skill building, controlled exposure, or changes to the dog's environment and routine.
The goal isn't perfection. It's meaningful progress and skills that remain useful outside of a training session.
Who I Work With.
I work best with people who want to understand their dog — not just control their behavior.
You don't need to know anything about dog training before we start. You do need to be willing to observe, practice, ask questions, and adjust as we learn more about what works for your dog.
My clients tend to value:
Understanding the why behind the training
Practical strategies they can use in everyday life
Progress that respects the individual dog rather than rushing the process
Training that can be adjusted when something isn't working
Building skills through consistency and practice, not quick fixes
You don't need to be a perfect trainer or organize your life around your dog. My goal is to help you understand what we're working on, why we're doing it, and how to make it realistic in your everyday life.
Education & professional development
I completed my professional dog training education through Peninsula School for Dog Trainers in 2022 and continue to pursue education in applied behavior, aggression and reactivity, play, arousal and regulation, and humane, evidence-informed training practices.
My continuing education includes coursework and instruction through professionals and organizations including Michael Shikashio, Meagan Karnes, Shade Whitesel, Fenzi Dog Sports Academy, and Canine Arthritis Management.
I also remain involved in rescue work, where working with dogs from a wide range of backgrounds continues to inform my approach to behavior and training.