Kat - Certified Private Dog Trainer - La Quinta, CA

Member since Jan 2018

As a certified pet trainer with over 20 years of hands-on experience, I specialize in transforming pet behavior and enhancing the bond between pets and their owners. My journey began at a young age, assisting my father with our police dog, Max, which ignited my lifelong passion for animal training. I hold multiple certifications, including Dog Agility Training, Dog Obedience Training, Dog Therapy Training, and Pet Behavior Modification. I am also a proud American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator, which allows me to provide you with top-notch training services tailored to your pet's needs.

I offer comprehensive training solutions for dogs of all sizes—whether your furry friend is under 20 lbs, between 20-39 lbs, 40-79 lbs, or over 80 lbs, I’ve got you covered. My services include private dog training sessions and mobile training options that can conveniently take place in your home or nearby locations. With my business license and full insurance, you can trust that your pet is in safe hands. I also understand that every pet is unique, so I work closely with you to ensure you’re equipped to follow through with the training at home, fostering a supportive environment for your pet's growth.

Ready to create a harmonious relationship with your pet? I offer both in-person and online sessions to accommodate your schedule. With my background and commitment to animal welfare, I’m here to help every step of the way. Don't wait any longer—book me through Petworks today and let’s embark on this rewarding journey together!

  • Licensed
  • Certified
  • Bonded
  • Insured

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Animal Behaviorist
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • K9 Training
  • Service Dog Training
  • Dog Behaviorist

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

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

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License

On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?

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

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA)
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification

Proud member of...

  • Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI)

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

La Quinta, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laguna Beach, Dana Point

What year did you begin serving pets?

1999

kat todd

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BASED IN: La Quinta, CA
SERVICE AREA: Within 75 miles, including La Quinta, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laguna Beach, Dana Point

Distinction

Animal Behavior Society (ABS) IBPSA American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC) Pet Sitters International Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification

Customer Reviews

We used Kat's pet sitting service for our 3 cats. She came into our garage with a special key that we left her and fed our cats, cleaned their bowls and even topped off our pool water while we were gone for 17 days. Kat was very responsive and texted us daily and even sent us photos of our cats during some of her visits. She's new to this business but you'd never know it. I highly recommend her for pet sitting. - San Diego, CA

- William R

Kat is a godsend!!!! We have a VERY excitable and impulse control-challenged dog. Before we got him, he lived the kennel life and had been trained to be a field dog...so he was bred to be extremely energetic, excited and focused for one thing. Until Kat came into our lives, the most we were able to get him to do was SIT and STAY. But that was about it. Play time was INSANE. He couldn't hear any commands being given to him, he would go absolutely bonkers trying to get the toy out of your hand; something just came over him and he was in a trance. A jumping, lunging, "get that toy at all costs" kind of trance. It was actually quite scary. We had him stay with Kat for 10 days for a training intensive. He came back a much calmer, more controlled dog. Play time has finally become something we are able to do with him, albeit with new commands and a fresh perspective and understanding on our end. He is now able to listen to commands and he even learned more! She taught us how to work with him and how to keep up training with him everyday. Throughout the whole time he was there, she would send us progress videos and show us the exercises she was doing with him and how to do them with him so we can keep refreshing with him on our own. It was so amazing and rewarding to see his progression. We now feel confident with our dog and our ability to work with him where he is at. Would NOT have gotten to this without Kat's help. Thank you!!! - Los Angeles, CA - March 2025

- Alisa B

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Dog Trainer
  • Private Dog Training
  • Puppy Trainer
  • Animal Behaviorist
  • Dog Obedience Training
  • K9 Training
  • Service Dog Training
  • Dog Behaviorist

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

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

What licensing do you have?

  • Business License

On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?

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

Pet Certifications

  • American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
  • International Boarding and Pet Services Association (IBPSA)
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI) Certification

Proud member of...

  • Animal Behavior Society (ABS)
  • Pet Sitters International (PSI)

Do you offer mobile services?

  • Yes

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

La Quinta, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, Laguna Beach, Dana Point

What year did you begin serving pets?

1999

Customer Reviews

We used Kat's pet sitting service for our 3 cats. She came into our garage with a special key that we left her and fed our cats, cleaned their bowls and even topped off our pool water while we were gone for 17 days. Kat was very responsive and texted us daily and even sent us photos of our cats during some of her visits. She's new to this business but you'd never know it. I highly recommend her for pet sitting. - San Diego, CA

- William R

Kat is a godsend!!!! We have a VERY excitable and impulse control-challenged dog. Before we got him, he lived the kennel life and had been trained to be a field dog...so he was bred to be extremely energetic, excited and focused for one thing. Until Kat came into our lives, the most we were able to get him to do was SIT and STAY. But that was about it. Play time was INSANE. He couldn't hear any commands being given to him, he would go absolutely bonkers trying to get the toy out of your hand; something just came over him and he was in a trance. A jumping, lunging, "get that toy at all costs" kind of trance. It was actually quite scary. We had him stay with Kat for 10 days for a training intensive. He came back a much calmer, more controlled dog. Play time has finally become something we are able to do with him, albeit with new commands and a fresh perspective and understanding on our end. He is now able to listen to commands and he even learned more! She taught us how to work with him and how to keep up training with him everyday. Throughout the whole time he was there, she would send us progress videos and show us the exercises she was doing with him and how to do them with him so we can keep refreshing with him on our own. It was so amazing and rewarding to see his progression. We now feel confident with our dog and our ability to work with him where he is at. Would NOT have gotten to this without Kat's help. Thank you!!! - Los Angeles, CA - March 2025

- Alisa B

🐶 About Kat Todd — Certified Dog Trainer in La Quinta, California


Kat Todd is a certified dog trainer serving La Quinta and the surrounding Riverside County area, including nearby communities such as Palm Desert, Indio, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Coachella, Bermuda Dunes, Indian Wells, Thousand Palms, Desert Hot Springs, Sky Valley. They specialize in helping dogs and their people build calm, trusting, and lasting relationships through positive, science-based training. Whether you're working through leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or simply want a well-mannered companion, Kat tailors each session to your dog’s personality, history, and learning style—so progress feels natural and sustainable, not forced.


❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.


Kat works closely with you as the owner, helping you understand your dog’s behavior, build clear communication, and create routines that lead to real-world success at home and in public.


Training Support for Real-Life Challenges


From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, Kat provides practical, results-driven support with:


  • Obedience and focus for home and public settings

  • Leash training and more relaxed, enjoyable walks

  • Reducing anxiety, fear, and reactivity

  • Puppy and new dog foundations for long-term success

Each session is designed to be encouraging, easy to apply, and tailored to your daily routine.


Recommended Certifications for Dog Trainers


When choosing a dog trainer, professional certifications are a strong indicator of expertise, experience, and commitment to ethical, science-based methods. Widely recognized credentials include the CPDT-KA or CPDT-KSA from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, which demonstrate mastery of modern training techniques, canine behavior, and learning theory. The KPA-CTP (Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner) highlights trainers skilled in positive reinforcement and clicker training, while the IAABC Certified Dog Trainer credential, recognized internationally, signals advanced knowledge in behavior modification and problem-solving. Membership or certification through the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) further reflects ongoing education and adherence to ethical standards. Many trainers also pursue specialty certifications in areas such as aggression management, behavior modification, or puppy development to address specific challenges.


For pet parents, choosing a certified trainer like Kat Todd, ensures that your dog’s training is grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about a trainer’s credentials is one of the best ways to make a confident, informed choice.


Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks


Booking through PetWorks gives you more than access to a qualified trainer — it gives you confidence in your choice.


Kat is a verified professional who uses force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents value the supportive, judgment-free approach, along with the ability to read verified reviews and book securely through a trusted platform.


🦔 How Booking Dog Training in La Quinta, CA on PetWorks Works


Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On PetWorks, you can explore Kat’s profile, read real feedback from pet parents across Riverside County, and either initiate a booking offer by clicking the "Book Now" button, or start with a conversation by clicking 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Send Message'.


Training works best when you begin at the right time. For puppies and newly adopted dogs, early training builds strong habits from the start. For older dogs, challenges like leash pulling, anxiety, or reactivity can absolutely improve with consistent, professional guidance — with many pet parents noticing meaningful progress within just a few sessions.


In La Quinta and throughout California, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers can increase during the spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit in advance can help you secure the schedule that works best for you.


Most dog training sessions across the U.S. typically range from $75–$150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and training type. On PetWorks, you can review available services and choose the option that aligns with your goals.


All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, giving you access to a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you’ll coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with Kat to get the most out of your sessions.


Dog Training FAQs


How many dog training sessions will I need? Every dog is different, but many pet parents begin to see progress within 2–4 sessions. More complex behavior issues like reactivity or anxiety may require ongoing training and consistency at home.


Do you offer in-home dog training in La Quinta, CA? Many trainers on PetWorks, including Kat, offer flexible options such as in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services listed above or use Request Quote to confirm what works best for your situation.


Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective in addressing reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. Early guidance from a certified professional helps ensure safe, lasting progress.


🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog


Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness — and your peace of mind.


Explore Kat’s profile, read verified reviews from local pet parents across Riverside County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog today. Availability can vary week to week, so booking ahead is recommended.