Think Pawsitive - In Home Private Dog Training - Manlius, NY
Amanda is the Owner and Head Trainer of Think Pawsitive Dog Training. We offer both in-home and group classes. We serve the Syracuse and surrounding areas.
Amanda has been training dogs for over 8 years. After volunteering in dog rescue and animal advocacy for over 5 1/2 years, Amanda decided to pursue a career in dog training. She graduated from Animal Behavior College as a Certified Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer, ABCDT, in 2014 and earned her Certified Professional Dog Trainer Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) title through The Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) in 2021. Amanda is a Mentor Trainer for CATCH Trainers Academy and an Evaluator for the AKC Canine Good Citizen program. Amanda is also a supporting member of IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants).
Amanda stays current with trainings, seminars and conferences in her field. She is passionate about training dogs using humane, science-based methods centered through positive reinforcement. She believes in building a relationship and confidence in both dogs and their owners. Amanda is passionate about teaching families how to read dog body language, building positive dog-child relationships and ensuring everyone is safe and respectful around dogs.
Please contact and book me on Petworks.
- Licensed
- Certified
- Mobile Services
Pricing Packages
How do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
What training tools do you use?
- Back-clip Harness
- Barriers
- Clicker
- Front-clip Harness
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Toys
- Treats
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- 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 Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
- Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
amanda gardner
SERVICE AREA: Within 75 miles, including Syracuse, NY and surrounding areas, Syracuse, Utica, Ithaca, Rome, Auburn, Cortland, Oswego, Oneida, Baldwinsville, Camillus New York, Onondaga County NY
Distinction
Customer Reviews
I participated in Amanda’s basic manners class with my dog. Amanda was phenomenal! I love her teaching style. She’s extremely explicit and models what she is teaching. She gives ample time in class for you to practice with your dog and then gives very practical homework to do in between sessions. Not only did my dog learn a ton, but her class also helped to deepen and strengthen my understanding and relationship with my dog. Amanda came to our home to do a private session with us as well. Again, she gave specific homework and modeled what I should do in specific situations. I can’t wait to take another class with my dog!
- Katrina GMy dog Reggie and I have worked on and off with Amanda for several years, and her expertise and guidance has had such an incredible impact for both of us. We’d gone through two rounds of group classes at a major pet store chain that did absolutely nothing to manage Reggie’s reactivity to other dogs, and frequently used training methods that centered around consequence and punishment. It wasn’t for me, and I contacted Amanda at Think Pawsitive Dog Training to learn more about the positive reinforcement based training. It was the best decision I could have made, and we started seeing results after the very first session with her. Reggie and I were learning together and having fun doing it, and it felt so much better than our previous experiences. Amanda has been an incredible resource and is always willing to answer questions or give advice, even outside of active training. I’ve gained much more confidence as a first time dog owner, and could not have done it without Think Pawsitive!
- Gillian DI’ve taken two classes so far with Amanda and Nicole, both were great. The basics class gave us a good foundation to start training and the around town pooches was great for us since we take our dog to a lot of public places. They’re both great at answering questions and providing advice. Would recommend and definitely where I plan on taking future dog classes.
- Daniel WI thought my Golden Retriever wasn’t going to learn loose leash walking...but with Amanda’s help during our Basic Obedience class, it was accomplished rather quickly!
- Penny WHow do you serve precious pets?
- Dog Trainer
- Puppy Trainer
- Dog Obedience Training
What training tools do you use?
- Back-clip Harness
- Barriers
- Clicker
- Front-clip Harness
- Leash
- Long Line
- Martingale Collar
- Muzzle
- Praise/Affection
- Toys
- Treats
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Dogs
Which training type do you employ to encourage paw-sitive behaviors?
- 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 Canine Good Citizen Approved Evaluator (AKC CGC)
- Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer (ABCDT)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
Customer Reviews
I participated in Amanda’s basic manners class with my dog. Amanda was phenomenal! I love her teaching style. She’s extremely explicit and models what she is teaching. She gives ample time in class for you to practice with your dog and then gives very practical homework to do in between sessions. Not only did my dog learn a ton, but her class also helped to deepen and strengthen my understanding and relationship with my dog. Amanda came to our home to do a private session with us as well. Again, she gave specific homework and modeled what I should do in specific situations. I can’t wait to take another class with my dog!
- Katrina GMy dog Reggie and I have worked on and off with Amanda for several years, and her expertise and guidance has had such an incredible impact for both of us. We’d gone through two rounds of group classes at a major pet store chain that did absolutely nothing to manage Reggie’s reactivity to other dogs, and frequently used training methods that centered around consequence and punishment. It wasn’t for me, and I contacted Amanda at Think Pawsitive Dog Training to learn more about the positive reinforcement based training. It was the best decision I could have made, and we started seeing results after the very first session with her. Reggie and I were learning together and having fun doing it, and it felt so much better than our previous experiences. Amanda has been an incredible resource and is always willing to answer questions or give advice, even outside of active training. I’ve gained much more confidence as a first time dog owner, and could not have done it without Think Pawsitive!
- Gillian DI’ve taken two classes so far with Amanda and Nicole, both were great. The basics class gave us a good foundation to start training and the around town pooches was great for us since we take our dog to a lot of public places. They’re both great at answering questions and providing advice. Would recommend and definitely where I plan on taking future dog classes.
- Daniel WI thought my Golden Retriever wasn’t going to learn loose leash walking...but with Amanda’s help during our Basic Obedience class, it was accomplished rather quickly!
- Penny W🐶 Certified Dog Trainers in Manlius, New York
Pet parents in Manlius and the surrounding Onondaga County area, including nearby communities such as Syracuse, Utica, Rome, Auburn, Cortland, Oswego, Watertown, Oneida, Fulton, Geneva, often look for a certified dog trainer who can help a dog and their people build a calm, trusting relationship. Trainers like Amanda Gardner focus on positive, science-based methods that fit real life at home and in public. Whether the goal is leash pulling, anxiety, reactivity, or a well-mannered companion, a good trainer shapes each session around the dog’s personality, history, and learning style, so progress feels natural and sustainable.
❤️ Great dog training isn’t just about commands — it’s about connection.
Certified dog trainers work with you as the owner, not only with the dog. They help you read behavior, build clear communication, and set routines that hold up at home and in public. A trainer like Amanda is a coach for both of you.
✅ Training Support for Real-Life Challenges
From everyday manners to more complex behavioral concerns, certified dog trainers in Manlius commonly help 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
Sessions should feel encouraging, practical, and easy to carry into your daily routine. The services listed on this profile show what Amanda offers.
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 Amanda Gardner is one way to keep training grounded in science, safety, and compassion. Asking about credentials, and confirming them on the profile, is one of the best ways to make a confident choice.
⭐ Why Pet Parents Book Through PetWorks
Booking through PetWorks gives you more than a list of dog trainers in Manlius. It gives you a clearer way to choose.
A profile like Amanda’s lets you review a local professional, read feedback from other pet parents, and book securely through a trusted platform. Many trainers on PetWorks use force-free, positive reinforcement methods grounded in modern behavioral science. Pet parents often look for that supportive, judgment-free approach when they decide who to hire.
🦔 How Booking Dog Training in Manlius, NY on PetWorks Works
Finding the right dog trainer starts with trust and fit. On this page you can explore Amanda’s profile, read feedback from pet parents across Onondaga County, and either start a booking with "Book Now" or begin a conversation with "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 improve with consistent, professional guidance, and many pet parents notice meaningful progress within a few sessions.
In Manlius and throughout New York, demand for experienced, force-free dog trainers often rises in spring and early fall, when routines shift and outdoor activity picks up. Booking a bit ahead can help you get a schedule that works.
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 the services on this profile and choose the option that matches your goals.
All payments are processed securely through PetWorks. Every booking also includes PetWorks Care Coverage, with a dedicated concierge team, added protection, and support throughout your experience. Once you connect, you coordinate scheduling, location, and training goals directly with your trainer.
❓ 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 issues like reactivity or anxiety may take ongoing training and consistency at home.
Do dog trainers offer in-home sessions in Manlius, NY? Many trainers on PetWorks offer in-home sessions, local meetups, or virtual coaching. Check the services on Amanda’s profile, or use Get Custom Quote, to confirm what is available.
Can dog training help with aggressive or reactive behavior? Yes. Positive, science-based training can be very effective for reactivity, fear, and certain forms of aggression. A certified professional helps keep that progress safe and lasting.
🐾 Start Building a Better Relationship With Your Dog
Training is an investment in your dog’s happiness, and in your peace of mind.
Explore Amanda’s profile, read reviews from pet parents across Onondaga County, and take the first step toward a calmer, more confident dog. Availability for trainers in Manlius can change week to week, so booking ahead is a good idea.