Workshops

3+ days of hands-on experience and expert insight that equips participants with the knowledge and confidence they need to train dogs. Working and non-working (audit) spots are available for each workshop.

Sign up

What is a workshop?

Focusing solely on the owners and dogs present, everything we address will align with the behaviors, goals and experience of the group. We will work the dogs attending the workshop in a variety of ways, adjusting locations dependent upon the comfort and level of the group. Throughout each day there is plentiful time for questions.

Our workshops are an incredible opportunity for both new and experienced dog owners and trainers alike. By covering a comprehensive range of training topics, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding and skills in various areas, making it a highly valuable experience.

Similar to a really great shadowing opportunity, a non-working spot allows you to observe various dogs and owners work through different situations with Samantha’s guidance. Non-working spots allow you to be focus solely on the material, take notes and gather all the knowledge to apply without having to manage a dog at the same time.
This is an interactive role where participants bring their dogs to partake in the training. Whether attendees are looking to work with their own dogs or are traveling and need a dog provided, there is flexibility for accommodation.
Every student with a working spot will have the opportunity to personally execute training methods and techniques. This practical, immediate feedback is beneficial for both the dog and the owner. Each challenge or success becomes a real-time learning experience.
Each person with a dog will start the day working their dog for 15-20 concentrated minutes. After the dogs are exhausted and questions are asked, we have lunch together. The afternoon will include more solo dog work, group work and/or pack walks.
Scroll down for a more in-depth schedule!
We typically start in a large space, allowing dogs with reactivity, anxiety, etc. enough room to work. Dependent upon the group, we may move locations to more advanced areas; if we are in LA, we’ll likely head back to Samantha’s back yard!
Yes! We frequently start off in a large area, utilizing the tool of space to allow for you and your dog to work through any problems/challenges with Samantha’s help.
No. Anyone is welcome! With our trainers expertise and structure of the workshop, we ensure the safety of and optimal training environment for the owners and dogs involved. If you’re new to Pack Life, a great place to start is the membership page, all videos from previous workshops are on there. If you have questions, please reach out.
Lunch is provided Friday and Saturday. We provide brunch and dinner on Sunday. Providing lunch daily and a special dinner on Sunday definitely builds a sense of camaraderie and community among attendees. I believe this makes the workshop not only educational but also a truly enjoyable event to network and connect with other dog enthusiasts.
Recording training sessions can be a great learning tool for owners and trainers. It allows for review, reflection, and improvement. I record our workshop sessions and they are shared on the membership page so you can go back and watch, allowing you to stay in the moment
There are a lot of trainers that do not allow attendees to record or take photos - we do! I always strive to maintain transparency in my techniques. You're always welcome to record. All dogs deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, whether in an open space or behind the scenes and at Pack Life LA we do exactly that. I have complete confidence in my methods, and I believe they’re suitable for all to see and learn from.
My goal is to build a trusting relationship between the dog and owner. I strive to teach you methods that are humane, transparent, and effective.

What will we cover?

FUNDAMENTALS

Leash work, crate, yes work, place + : These are critical for control, connection, building neutrality around stimuli and safety, especially in public spaces or when the dog needs to be secure at home.
E-COLLAR

Learn to utilize the e-collar effectively and humanely. Incorporating the use of an e-collar also opens up a broader range of training techniques and methods for those who are interested or already utilizing this tool.
RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

Build a strong, respectful relationship with your dog through understanding their communication cues, providing appropriate stimulation, and learning how to effectively use reward-based positive reinforcement.
BEHAVIOR

We can address any behavior that comes up/is presented in the group and more, including: reactivity, aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, or excessive barking.
PLAY +

Understanding what constitutes healthy play is key to ensuring your dog is socializing appropriately. We will cover using play to physically/mentally drain your pup, redirect behavior, fulfillment and impulse control.
BODY LANGUAGE

Dogs communicate largely through body language. By understanding what their movements, posture, and facial expressions indicate, you'll be able to interpret their mood, stress level, and intentions. This helps prevent mishaps and misunderstandings between you and your dog, strengthening your relationship.
BASIC OBEDIENCE

This will include commands like sit, stay, come and leave it.
NEUTRALITY

Each of the components we review are integral to helping your dog become calm and neutral. We will go in depth on what neutrality is and how to achieve it.
IMPULSE CONTROL

Impulse control is a major factor in neutrality. Working impulse control is necessary with all dogs and can have profound impacts on working through various behavioral issues

Days 1 & 2

10:00 AM: Workshop begins.

This is a great time for introductions and an overview of the day's activities.

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Morning session

Every person who has a working spot will have a 20 minute session to cover whatever you and your dog need. Every dog will go 2-3x the first two days.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Lunch break

This gives participants a chance to rest, ask further questions in a casual setting, and build connections with the other attendees.

2:00 PM - 3:00/4:00 PM: Afternoon session

My goal is to start the workshop later in the morning and by including a lunch break, we ensure that participants will have the energy and focus to absorb the lessons.

Final Day / Day 3

11:00 AM: Workshop begins.

We will recap the past few days and have breakfast and coffee.

10:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Morning session.

We will continue with practical exercises and work in more advanced concepts and techniques. Wrap up any remaining lessons or activities, and give participants time to apply what they've learned in a controlled environment, and offer advice for further practice at home.

Post session

Early dinner is provided by lead trainer, Samantha. This is a great way to conclude the workshop on a relaxed and positive note, offering a chance for participants to share their experiences, discuss their progress, build community, and ask any final questions.

★★★★★

Working : Dog Reactivity

“Completely unsure of what to expect and confident I might have to leave because of my dog’s intense dog reactivity, with Samantha’s expert guidance and support of the group, I was able to experience the potential my dog has to be calm and non-reactive and learn what I need to do to help us get there.”
Non-working

“One of my favorite things about workshops is the people you meet.”
Working : Socialization

“Receiving feedback in real time, and watching others receive feedback in real time was so valuable. A workshop is the perfect place to be able to test a variety of things in a safe and productive atmosphere and receive instruction as to how to apply these tools in life. Samantha is empathetic and empowering to people and dogs.”
Working : Reactivity

“I have the membership but it’s invaluable to be in person, working your dog through reactivity issues, making sure it’s done correctly and learn how to read their body language to pull them out of a situation that makes them uncomfortable in a timely manner. The 3 day workshop was intensive and phenomenal. Samantha’s leadership was impressive and her leadership was impeccable.”
Non-working

“If you only attend one workshop in your life, make it a Pack Life LA one. The community she has built is the most beautiful thing I’ve seen inside this industry since I started training.”