Lara Schindler founded Happy Dog Happy Owner after leaving corporate training work, bringing over 15 years of experience to her San Diego practice. According to her site, she holds credentials including ABC Certified Dog Trainer (honors graduate), AKC Canine Good Citizen evaluator, and certifications in areas ranging from pet first aid to Canine Water Sports judging. She also volunteers with her therapy dog Hops at a children's hospital.
The business offers group classes, private sessions, and board-and-train programs. Group options span basic obedience through advanced urban manners, plus agility classes at three skill levels and AKC Canine Good Citizen preparation and testing. For private training, they describe working on everything from housetraining to more complex issues like fear, aggression, and separation anxiety—building individualized plans that combine positive reinforcement with desensitization techniques. They also offer scent work training and sessions to help prepare dogs for a new baby's arrival.
Board-and-train services are conducted through a partner facility, Cabrillo Pet Care Center, rather than an in-house location. The business states they keep group class sizes small and offers a virtual training option with video lectures and feedback for owners who can't attend in person.
