A Million Dreams Dog Training
Method and Mission
My training approach comes from the heart, because I train for the love of dogs. I believe that happiness, respect, and obedience are the keys to a fulfilling life for both dogs and their humans. That’s why I prioritize each dog’s well-being and take a personalized approach to training. Using a LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) methodology, I customize every session—whether private or group—to suit your dog’s unique needs and your specific goals. My passion lies in creating strong, trusting bonds between dogs and their owners, empowering you with the skills and confidence to achieve the life you’ve always envisioned with your dog.
Experience and Education
Over the past five years, I’ve worked extensively with shelter dogs, learning firsthand how each dog is unique and deserving of a chance to thrive. I’ve also faced the heartbreak of knowing I couldn’t save them all—a lesson that drives me to give my all to the family dogs I can help. That’s why my dream is to positively impact the lives of millions of dogs and their families. Every training session I offer is not just a step toward that goal but also an opportunity to honor the memory of the homeless dogs I couldn’t save by ensuring that the dogs I work with now live their very best lives.
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While training my dog and a handful of "difficult to adopt" shelter dogs, I logged extensive hours of consuming dog training content. Podcasts, YouTube videos, books, E-Courses... I was hooked. I've travelled to study under some of the most well-respected trainers in the country to enhance my skills and bring me where I am today, directly impacting the lives of my clients and their dogs.
Where It All Began
Dogs have been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. My love for dogs started before I could even talk. My childhood golden retriever and first best friend, Sam, taught me loyalty, patience, and the importance of being the best person you can be for your dog. Since then, every dog I’ve had the privilege of knowing has taught me something invaluable, whether about compassion, resilience, or the incredible bond we share with our canine companions.
Meet Your Trainer
Pictured: Willow (Left), Steph & Barney (Right)
Hi! I'm Steph, and thank you so much for taking the time to learn about me and my training philosophy! I know how important it is to feel comfortable with the person you’re trusting to help your beloved dog, and I don’t take that responsibility lightly. My goal is not just to guide your dog but also to support and empower you as an owner.
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I was born and raised in Cleveland, OH. I attended undergraduate at Washington University in St. Louis where I got my bachelor's degree in Computer Science. I moved to Arlington, VA in 2019 for work as a software engineer. I then began volunteering at Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Foundation (Falls Church, VA) working with dogs and what started as a hobby quickly became an obsession.
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I would also like to introduce my two loving rescues (who you may meet!), who inspire my work every single day. Barney, a German Shepherd/Catahoula mix, joined my life in 2021 and has taught me—and continues to teach me—the never-ending art of training a dog. Then there’s Willow, my Border Collie mix, who has shown me the incredible importance of understanding the language of dogs and meeting them where they are. Both of them have shaped my perspective as a trainer and remind me of the unique journey every dog and owner share.
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I’m so excited to help you and your dog create a strong, happy partnership built on trust and understanding. Let’s get started on this journey together!