Best Friends Dog Training Behavior and Evaluations - Colorado Springs, CO

5 out of 5

(2 reviews)

Verified Member since Apr 2020 Verified checkmark

I'm a certified dog trainer and behavioral counselor with over 20 years of experience and behavioral education. CCPTD Certified Trainer, Behaviorist and Evaluator. I am a professional member of International Association of Animal Behavioral Consultants,
Evaluator for the AKC, American Kennel Club for Canine Good Citizen, Community Canine, Urban Canine and Temperament
Testing, along with Good house manners.
Licensed as a Handler, Instructor and Evaluator with Pet Partners Therapy Pets, (The gold standard of Therapy animals)
I am a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers and Evaluator for the Foundation of Service Dog
Support.
I use positive reinforcement exclusively in training and behavioral modification.
My services range from puppy training to advanced obedience. I work with behavioral issues such as aggressive behaviors, anxiety etc..
I also train service and assistance dogs and am an Evaluator for the Foundation of Service Dog Support.
Working with dogs and their guardians is a joy
Positive methods give positive results!!
Please contact and book me on Petworks. Thank you.

  • Licensed
  • Certified
  • Insured
  • BBB Accredited
  • Online Sessions
  • Mobile Services

Pricing Packages

Select a package, then tap Book now

Specialties

  • Dog Training
  • Pet First Aid Training
  • Animal Behavior
  • Puppy Training
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • K9 Training
  • Service Dog Training

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Clicker
  • Head Collar
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Praise/Affection
  • Toys
  • Treats

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Birds
  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Parrots

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License
  • Licensed Veterinary Technician

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Detection Dog Training
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Dog Therapy Training
  • Pet Behavior Modification
  • Service Dog Training

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Temperament Test (ATT) Certified
  • Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA)
  • Certified Veterinary Assistant
  • Fear Free Certified Professional
  • International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
  • National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI)
  • PetCPR+ Pet CPR Certification

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Proud member of...

  • Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
  • Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
  • Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  • International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP)
  • International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP)

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Education

I hold a graduate degree in behavior, with extensive education and experience in animal behavior and learning theory

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Pueblo, Castle Rock, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Monument, Cimarron Hills, Woodland Park, Canon City, Manitou Springs, Falcon.

What year did you begin serving pets?

2000

How did you hone your craft?

I have a background in Psychology. I was a registered Psychotherapist. Ive always been involed in the animal training world I decided to pursue education and with much experience I created my business

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Let your pet know through clear communication what you want them to do. Many pet parents believe they are clear in communication but their pet does not understand

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I am always pleased to create, repair or assist you in a forever bond with your pet
Verified checkmark

best friends dogs training and behavior

Send Message
⚡️ Usually replies within 45 minutes
BASED IN: Colorado Springs, CO
SERVICE AREA: Within 50 miles, including Pueblo, Castle Rock, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Monument, Cimarron Hills, Woodland Park, Canon City, Manitou Springs, Falcon.

Distinction

Pw without hitch Pw eager beaver circle Pet Emergency Education Certified CPDT-KA Fear Free Certified Professional International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) American Kennel Club Temperament Test (ATT) Certified IAADP Animal Behavior Society (ABS) National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI) Association of Professioanal Dog Trainers (APDT) CCBC-KA BBB Accredited Business

Customer Reviews

As a cancer survivor, I wanted to give back. Hospitals desperately needed Therapy Dogs. Carol was the perfect trainer and coach for us to achieve this goal! This is our beloved Oliver! He was our Therefore Dog. Unfortunately, cancer took him away from us a couple of years ago. But, we have the memories and a wonderful relationship with Carol and her program!! - Colorado Springs, CO - April 2025

- Michael G

Carrie knows her stuff and that’s a definite! She goes above and beyond to share her knowledge and is super duper patient with questions, and especially patient with the pups. As much as I didn’t think we would, we really really love the Zoom (virtual) sessions. Being able to train our pup in the comfort of our home for house manners is EVERYTHING! She is super understanding and flexible with scheduling and we have greatly appreciated that as well. Carrie loves the pups and that is OBVIOUS! And her passion to get our Karma a particular type of training and officially certified being she is a Pitbull means so much to us. Carrie shows soooo much love to our Karma and we love that. Thank you Carrie! 100% recommended! - Colorado Springs, CO

- Sandra C

Specialties

  • Dog Training
  • Pet First Aid Training
  • Animal Behavior
  • Puppy Training
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • K9 Training
  • Service Dog Training

What training tools do you use?

  • Back-clip Harness
  • Clicker
  • Head Collar
  • Leash
  • Long Line
  • Martingale Collar
  • Praise/Affection
  • Toys
  • Treats

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Birds
  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Parrots

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License
  • Licensed Veterinary Technician

Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?

  • Detection Dog Training
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • Dog Therapy Training
  • Pet Behavior Modification
  • Service Dog Training

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Temperament Test (ATT) Certified
  • Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA)
  • Certified Veterinary Assistant
  • Fear Free Certified Professional
  • International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
  • National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors (NADOI)
  • PetCPR+ Pet CPR Certification

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Proud member of...

  • Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
  • Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
  • Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
  • International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP)
  • International Association of Canine Professionals (IACP)

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Education

I hold a graduate degree in behavior, with extensive education and experience in animal behavior and learning theory

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Pueblo, Castle Rock, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Monument, Cimarron Hills, Woodland Park, Canon City, Manitou Springs, Falcon.

What year did you begin serving pets?

2000

How did you hone your craft?

I have a background in Psychology. I was a registered Psychotherapist. Ive always been involed in the animal training world I decided to pursue education and with much experience I created my business

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Let your pet know through clear communication what you want them to do. Many pet parents believe they are clear in communication but their pet does not understand

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I am always pleased to create, repair or assist you in a forever bond with your pet

Customer Reviews

As a cancer survivor, I wanted to give back. Hospitals desperately needed Therapy Dogs. Carol was the perfect trainer and coach for us to achieve this goal! This is our beloved Oliver! He was our Therefore Dog. Unfortunately, cancer took him away from us a couple of years ago. But, we have the memories and a wonderful relationship with Carol and her program!! - Colorado Springs, CO - April 2025

- Michael G

Carrie knows her stuff and that’s a definite! She goes above and beyond to share her knowledge and is super duper patient with questions, and especially patient with the pups. As much as I didn’t think we would, we really really love the Zoom (virtual) sessions. Being able to train our pup in the comfort of our home for house manners is EVERYTHING! She is super understanding and flexible with scheduling and we have greatly appreciated that as well. Carrie loves the pups and that is OBVIOUS! And her passion to get our Karma a particular type of training and officially certified being she is a Pitbull means so much to us. Carrie shows soooo much love to our Karma and we love that. Thank you Carrie! 100% recommended! - Colorado Springs, CO

- Sandra C

🐶 Dog Trainers in Colorado Springs, Colorado


Carol Abrams is a dog trainer serving pet parents in Colorado Springs and the surrounding El Paso County area, including nearby communities such as Denver, Aurora, Lakewood, Pueblo, Thornton, Arvada, Centennial, Castle Rock, Westminster, Parker. Dog trainers like Carol Abrams help dogs develop good manners, learn practical skills, and become more confident in everyday situations. Whether you're working on leash pulling, jumping, recall, obedience, or household manners, Carol can tailor training guidance to your dog's personality, experience, and learning style.


❤️ Great Dog Training Builds Communication, Confidence, and Connection


Effective dog training involves more than teaching commands. A professional dog trainer works with both you and your dog, helping you understand how dogs learn, communicate clearly, and establish consistent routines. With guidance from Carol , you can develop training habits that fit your household and help your dog navigate everyday life at home and in public.


Dog Training Services and Skills


Dog trainers offer different programs and areas of specialization depending on their experience and training methods. Common training goals include:


Basic Obedience:
Teaching practical cues such as sit, stay, come, down, and leave it, while building attention and responsiveness.


Leash Training and Loose-Leash Walking:
Helping dogs learn to walk more comfortably with their people, respond to leash cues, and develop better walking habits.


Recall and Focus:
Building reliable responses to cues and helping dogs pay attention around everyday distractions.


Household Manners:
Working on behaviors such as jumping on people, excessive barking, counter surfing, door manners, and settling at home.


Socialization and Confidence:
Helping dogs become more comfortable with unfamiliar environments, people, sounds, and everyday experiences through appropriate, gradual training.


Rescue and Newly Adopted Dog Training:
Helping dogs adjust to a new household, establish routines, and learn the skills needed for family life.


Training for Fear and Reactivity:
Some dog trainers have experience helping dogs that bark, lunge, or become uncomfortable around other dogs, people, or unfamiliar situations. Ask about a trainer's specific experience and approach, particularly when safety is a concern.


Dog trainers may use positive reinforcement, reward-based methods, clicker training, or other approaches suited to their professional experience. Review each profile to understand the trainer's methods, qualifications, and available services. For severe or complex behavioral concerns, a veterinarian or qualified animal behavior professional may also be an important part of your dog's care.


Dog Training for Different Ages and Experience Levels


Dog training can benefit dogs at many stages of life. Some trainers work with young dogs learning household routines and basic skills, while others specialize in adult dogs, rescue dogs, or dogs that need help developing specific behaviors. The services listed on Carol 's profile will help you determine whether their experience matches your dog's age, background, and training goals. For dedicated early puppy development and foundational training, explore professionals in our Puppy Trainer category.


How to Choose a Dog Trainer


A good fit depends on more than location. Before booking, consider the trainer's experience, professional certifications, training philosophy, and familiarity with your dog's specific needs. Ask how sessions are structured, whether you will participate in the training, and what guidance is provided between appointments.


Professional credentials can help you understand a trainer's education and experience, but certifications and qualifications vary. Review the credentials displayed on each PetWorks profile and ask the professional about their training methods and areas of specialization.


⭐ Why Pet Parents Find Dog Trainers on PetWorks


PetWorks helps pet parents discover independent dog trainers offering services in their communities. You can compare individual profiles, explore training services, review professional backgrounds and qualifications, and read feedback from other pet parents.


Many trainers on PetWorks offer positive reinforcement or reward-based training, while individual methods and specialties vary. You can review each professional's approach before deciding who may be a good fit for your dog and household.


Whether you are looking for private dog training, in-home instruction, group training, or help with specific everyday skills, PetWorks makes it easier to connect with professionals serving Colorado Springs, Colorado and surrounding communities.


🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Colorado Springs, Colorado on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with reviewing the professional's experience, services, and availability. On this page, you can explore Carol 's profile, read reviews from other pet parents, and choose the booking option that works best for you. Click Book Now to select an available service or pricing package and initiate a booking. You can also select Get Custom Quote to discuss your dog's specific training needs and receive personalized pricing, or Send Message to contact the trainer before making a decision.


Dog training sessions may take place in your home, at an agreed-upon outdoor location, at a training facility, or remotely, depending on the professional's services. Many trainers offer in-person instruction, while some also provide virtual coaching and online consultations. Review the services listed on Carol 's profile to confirm available session formats, locations, and scheduling options.


Training fees, packages, session lengths, and availability vary by professional. You can review the services and pricing displayed on the profile before booking or request a custom quote if you have specific training goals.


Secure Online Payments:


PetWorks processes payments securely through Stripe. When you book a service or accept a custom quote, you can pay online using Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Affirm, Link, and Klarna when available.


PetWorks Care Coverage:


Every booking made and paid for through PetWorks includes Care Coverage. This provides access to our live, human Concierge Team, assistance with booking questions, and help resolving disputes if something doesn't go as planned. If a professional cancels a confirmed booking, you receive a 100% refund of everything you paid, including the Care Coverage fee. Other cancellations are handled according to the applicable cancellation policy.


Stay Connected Through PetWorks:


Once you initiate a booking or connect with your trainer, you can use the PetWorks Inbox to discuss your dog's training goals, coordinate scheduling, confirm session locations, and share relevant information. Keeping your booking and payments on the PetWorks platform helps ensure that your experience is supported by our Care Coverage program.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Training


What does a professional dog trainer do?
A professional dog trainer teaches dogs practical skills and helps pet parents build consistent training routines. Services may include obedience, leash training, recall, household manners, socialization, and other everyday training goals.


What age can a dog start training?
Dogs can learn at different ages and stages of life. Some trainers work with young dogs learning basic skills, while others specialize in adult dogs, rescue dogs, or specific training challenges. Check each professional's profile for the ages and experience levels they serve.


Can a dog trainer help with leash pulling, jumping, and barking?
Many dog trainers work on common challenges such as pulling on the leash, jumping on people, excessive barking, and difficulty responding to cues. The best training approach depends on the individual dog and the circumstances surrounding the behavior.


Can dog training help with fear or reactivity?
Some trainers have experience helping dogs develop better responses to triggers and challenging everyday situations. Ask about the professional's experience with your dog's specific behavior. Serious aggression, significant fear, or complex behavioral concerns may require veterinary guidance or an animal behavior specialist.


Do dog trainers offer in-home sessions in Colorado Springs, Colorado?
Many dog trainers offer private instruction in a pet parent's home or at an agreed-upon local location. Service areas and travel availability vary, so review the professional's profile or contact them to confirm whether they serve your neighborhood.


Are virtual dog training sessions available?
Some dog trainers offer online consultations or virtual coaching for pet parents who want guidance from a distance. Remote services vary by professional and may be suitable for certain training goals, follow-up sessions, and questions about everyday routines. Check the listed services to confirm availability.


How many dog training sessions will my dog need?
The number of sessions depends on your dog's experience, training goals, behavior, and consistency between appointments. Your trainer can recommend a starting plan after learning more about your dog and the skills you want to develop.


How do I choose the right dog trainer?
Compare each professional's experience, qualifications, training methods, specialties, service area, available session formats, and customer reviews. You can also contact trainers through PetWorks to discuss your dog's needs before making a decision.


What's the difference between a dog trainer and an animal behaviorist?
Dog trainers generally focus on teaching practical skills, obedience, manners, and desired responses through structured training. Animal behaviorists focus more on understanding and assessing the underlying causes of complex or persistent behavioral problems. Depending on your dog's needs, you may benefit from one professional or both.


How do I book a dog trainer on PetWorks?
Browse dog trainer profiles, compare services and reviews, and choose a professional whose experience and availability match your needs. Select Book Now to initiate a booking, Get Custom Quote to discuss your training goals, or Send Message to ask questions before committing.


🐾 Find a Dog Trainer and Start Building Better Habits


Consistent training can help make everyday life more enjoyable for dogs and the people who love them. Whether you want to improve leash manners, strengthen obedience, work on recall, or establish better household routines, the right professional can help you create a practical training plan.


Explore Carol 's profile, review available services, and read feedback from pet parents across El Paso County. Connect with a dog trainer serving Colorado Springs, Colorado and take the next step toward a more confident, well-mannered companion.