Build your relationship with your dog as you build your training skills, all while having a rollicking good time! The same fun techniques you use to teach such tricks as “bow” or “close the cabinet” in class can be used to teach good manners and self control in daily life. Students will choose some of the tricks to be taught. Dogs must have successfully completed Fido’s First Grade or a similar class, and be able to work around other dogs (no reactivity).

Susan Sanderson, who currently helps with puppy and adult classes, will bring her master’s level agility experience to lead Tricks for Training at Seneca Hill. Susan’s practice centers around force-free, rewards-based dog training and behavior work, for both group classes and private clients in the Washington, DC area. 

Susan completed Pat Miller’s Level 1 Academy, as well as the Instructors’ Training Course in New York, studying with Sue Sternberg and Pia Silvani, CPDT-KA. She regularly participates in continuing education seminars and workshops on topics such as puppy socialization, dog play behavior, operant conditioning, behavior modification, resource guarding, and agility handling. 

Susan competes with her dog, Falco, in the United States Dog Agility Association (USDAA) at the Masters levels; in the past year, Falco earned eight titles, including Advanced Performance Dog. Susan volunteers at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, working with the dogs in play groups as well as training and enrichment, and at the Washington Humane Society, offering an Adopters Workshop.

Before deciding to devote her energies to understanding dog behavior, Susan taught English to adults in Asmara, Eritrea, as well as at George Mason University. She holds an undergraduate degree from University of Houston and a graduate degree from George Mason University. 

Susan is a full member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), the Mid-Atlantic Association of Positive Professional Pet Trainers, and the Pet Professional Guild.