Who We Are At Premier Canine
At Premier Canine, we believe every dog has the potential to be their best self with the right guidance, love, and care.
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
We specialize in transforming high-energy, anxious, or easily distracted dogs into calm, well-behaved, and confident companions you’ll be proud to take anywhere.
In just a few weeks, we’ll guide you from feeling overwhelmed to experiencing exceptional obedience and a deeper connection with your dog. Our approach helps you build a lasting bond that fosters successful training and a lifetime of enjoyment with your furry friend.
Our board-and-train program serves the entire Puget Sound and Greater Seattle area, including Bremerton, Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, and surrounding communities. We’re committed to making your dog training journey smooth and hassle-free.
Ready to begin? Contact us today, and let’s start creating the well-trained dog you’ve always wanted!
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
We specialize in transforming high-energy, anxious, or easily distracted dogs into calm, well-behaved, and confident companions you’ll be proud to take anywhere.
In just a few weeks, we’ll guide you from feeling overwhelmed to experiencing exceptional obedience and a deeper connection with your dog. Our approach helps you build a lasting bond that fosters successful training and a lifetime of enjoyment with your furry friend.
Our board-and-train program serves the entire Puget Sound and Greater Seattle area, including Bremerton, Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia, and surrounding communities. We’re committed to making your dog training journey smooth and hassle-free.
Ready to begin? Contact us today, and let’s start creating the well-trained dog you’ve always wanted!
What's Offered
✓ How We Train: We offer Balanced Dog Training designed to bring out the best in your furry companion. Our specialized Board and Train programs are fully customized to meet your dog’s unique needs
✓ Where We Train: We Proudly Seattle, Tacoma, Bremerton, Olympia, Gig Harbor, Port Orchard, Puyallup, Federal Way, Shelton, and surrounding locations.
✓ Bonus Lessons: Receive up to five follow-up training sessions to strengthen and solidify your dog’s newfound skills after completing the program.
✓ Availability: We are currently accepting new clients!
✓ Specialized Behavioral Cases: Dogs with a bite history, aggression, or other serious behavioral concerns may be accepted on a limited basis. These cases may require specialized scheduling and are subject to a longer training program.
Ready To Get Started?
Take the first step toward a happier, more balanced relationship with your dog. Whether you're looking to improve obedience, tackle behavioral challenges, or simply strengthen your bond, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and schedule your dog's first session!
Ready To Get Started?
Take the first step toward a happier, more balanced relationship with your dog. Whether you're looking to improve obedience, tackle behavioral challenges, or simply strengthen your bond, we're here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and schedule your dog's first session!
How We Compare
Typical Dog Trainer
Basic Obedience Training- Dog Learns Basic Commands
- Just Basic Obedience
- Pay If Your Dog Has Future Problems
Premier Canine
Done-For-You Obedience Dog Training- Dog Learns Basic Commands
- Recall and Off-Leash Reliability
- E-Collar Training (See FAQ Section)
- Additional Training to Solve Digging, Jumping Up and Pulling
- Unlimited Lifetime Support
- 5 Free Bonus Lessons
Excited to build a stronger, more joyful connection with your dog?
Think this could be perfect for your family? Click below to book a free consultation!
Camps and pricing/investment
puppy camp
On Leash Only Puppy Camp
10 day camp
(Ages 16wks-20wks)
Investment: $1600
Camp includes
Foundation obedience and on leash training, manners, socialization, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home.
Commands
Sit, down, place, recall, name recognition, loose leash walking.
Skills
Thresholds, crate training, impulse control, foundation for achieving calm state of mind.
Ability to stop
Unwanted barking, jumping, play biting.
Also includes
One 1-2 hour lesson, updates via Instagram, collar used during training, lifetime support.
Premier Puppy Package
4 Week Camp
(Ages 16wks-24wks)
Investment: $4500 (BEST VALUE)
Camp includes
Reliable on/off leash obedience, manners, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home.
Commands
Sit, down, stay, place, heel (loose leash walking), recall, off leash situational heeling.
Skills
Threshold manners, autosit while heeling, impulse control, confidence building, socialization with people and animals, achieving calm state of mind.
Ability to stop
Jumping, barking, whining, begging, counter surfing, play biting, crate issues, leash pulling.
Also includes
Two 1-3 hour lessons, ecollar, training collar, 2 additional lessons after camp if needed, updates via Instagram, lifetime support.
adult camp
2 Week Camp
(at least 6 months old, dogs with minimal behavior problems/some training, returning dogs after completing on leash puppy camp)
Investment: $3200
Camp includes
Reliable on/off leash obedience, manners, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home.
Commands
Sit, down, place, stay, heel (loose leash walking), recall, off leash situational heeling.
Skills
Thresholds, autosit during heel, impulse control, achieving calm state of mind.
Ability to stop
Jumping, barking, whining, begging, counter surfing, play biting.
Also includes
Two 1-2 hour lessons, ecollar, training collar, 2 additional lessons after camp if needed, updates via Instagram, lifetime support.
2.5 week camp
(most popular; at least 6 months old)
Investment: $3400
Camp includes
Reliable on/off leash obedience, manners, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home.
Commands
Sit, down, place, heel (loose leash walking), recall, off leash situational heeling
Skills
Thresholds, autosit, impulse control, confidence building, achieving calm state of mind
Ability to stop
Jumping, barking, whining, begging, counter surfing, play biting, mild reactivity, mild nervousness/fear
Also includes
Two 1-2 hour go home lessons, ecollar, training collar, 2 additional lessons after camp if needed, updates via Instagram, lifetime support.
3 Week camp
(at least 6 months old)
Investment: $3800
Camp includes
Reliable on/off leash obedience, manners, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home.
Commands
Sit, down, place, heel (loose leash walking), recall, off leash situational heeling
Skills
Thresholds, autosit, impulse control, confidence building, achieving calm state of mind
Ability to stop
Jumping, barking, whining, begging, counter surfing, play biting, moderate reactivity, moderate nervousness/fear, moderate anxiety
Also includes
Two 1-3 hour lesson, ecollar, training collar, 2 additional lessons after camp if needed, updates via Instagram, lifetime support.
board and train programs
4-Week Board & Train
Investment: $4500
Camp includes
Addressing and resolving more serious behavior issues—such as leash reactivity and resource guarding—and reliable on- and off-leash obedience.
6-Week Board & Train
Investment: $6500
Camp includes
Addressing and resolving serious to severe behavior issues—such as human or dog reactivity and aggression, separation anxiety—and reliable on- and off-leash obedience.
Specialized Behavioral Cases
Dogs with more serious behavioral challenges may still be considered for training, including dogs with a bite history, human or animal aggression, resource guarding, severe fear or anxiety, or aggression between dogs in the same household.
Because these cases require additional evaluation, specialized handling, and individualized training, availability may be limited and the recommended camp duration may be longer than our standard programs.
All camp placements and program recommendations are determined after a free consultation.
WHAT DOES A DAY AT CAMP LOOK LIKE FOR YOUR DOG?
Your dog will stay happy, active, and relaxed as they enjoy a fun-filled day!
Wake-Up Time: Around 7–8 a.m.
Morning Routine: Potty break and a chance to stretch their legs.
Breakfast: Served around 8:30 or 9 a.m.
Training Sessions: 3–4 dedicated training sessions spread throughout the day.
Playtime: Enjoy outdoor fun or indoor relaxation between training sessions.
Adventure Time: Field trips to real-world locations like hiking trails, parks, stores, and downtown areas.
Dinner: Served around 4 p.m.
Relaxation: Unwind and nap after a day full of activities.
Evening Activities: Additional house time or playtime to wind down.
Bedtime: Around 9–10 p.m.
We post highlights throughout the day!
Check it out on our Instagram.
Meet Our Team
Rachel Givan
From Stray-Dog Rescuer to Confidence Coach for Canines
Hi, I’m Rachel, the founder and lead trainer at Premier Canine. My lifelong passion is helping dogs master basic obedience and off-leash skills while building their confidence.
My journey with dogs started at a young age, thanks to my mother, an experienced dog trainer who competed in obedience and conformation shows. Growing up on a six-acre property filled with horses, dogs, and cats, creating harmony among all our animals was a priority.
Living in the countryside, I loved teaching my dogs basic obedience alongside my horse and in group settings. Country life also brought me into contact with many stray and unwanted dogs, giving me the opportunity to work with a variety of breeds and temperaments.
By the time I turned 18, I had trained or rehomed dogs from a wide range of breeds, including Huskies, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Bulldogs, Great Pyrenees, Labs, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Pugs, Pomeranians, Dobermans, and countless mixed breeds. As I ventured out on my own, I expanded my training to include conformation, weight pulling, dock diving, agility, AKC obedience, and French Ring Sport.
Some of my proudest achievements include earning multiple obedience titles, with several high-in-trial placements. Building meaningful relationships with my dogs has been a deeply rewarding experience, and I’m passionate about helping others foster those same bonds with their canine companions.
At Premier Canine, I specialize in gradually and reliably increasing a dog’s confidence so that you can enjoy your companion in various locations and situations. Together, we’ll create a strong bond with your dog, resulting in better behavior and exceptional obedience for years to come.
Sean and Marta
From Challenging Dogs to Confident Owners
We’re Sean and Marta, the husband-and-wife team behind The Good Dog Way. Sean’s journey into dog training began with his own challenging dogs, so he truly understands the struggle, frustration, and overwhelm that owners can experience. He has spent many years training dogs, coaching owners, and hosting seminars across the country to help other professional trainers grow their skills.
Together, we’ve built The Good Dog Way around our shared love for dogs and our passion for helping families create calmer, happier lives together. Our training goes beyond commands—we focus on clear communication, practical everyday skills, and building a stronger relationship between dogs and their owners. Nothing means more to us than watching dogs thrive and helping their owners feel confident, connected, and excited about life with them. Love them by leading them.
Sean and Marta
From Challenging Dogs to Confident Owners
We’re Sean and Marta, the husband-and-wife team behind The Good Dog Way. Sean’s journey into dog training began with his own challenging dogs, so he truly understands the struggle, frustration, and overwhelm that owners can experience. He has spent many years training dogs, coaching owners, and hosting seminars across the country to help other professional trainers grow their skills.
Together, we’ve built The Good Dog Way around our shared love for dogs and our passion for helping families create calmer, happier lives together. Our training goes beyond commands—we focus on clear communication, practical everyday skills, and building a stronger relationship between dogs and their owners. Nothing means more to us than watching dogs thrive and helping their owners feel confident, connected, and excited about life with them. Love them by leading them.
D’Artagnan
Trusted Canine Coach: The Magnificent Malinois
At Premier Canine, D’Artagnan plays a vital role in our training process! As our first neutral distractions, he has been instrumental in helping nervous or reactive dogs gain confidence. D’Artagnan’s calm and steady demeanor provides reassurance to help dogs feel at ease.
Our Past Canine Transformations
Where We Train
We offer expert dog training and boarding services throughout the Puget Sound and Greater Seattle region. Our service areas include Tacoma, Seattle, Gig Harbor, Bremerton, Port Orchard, Shelton, the Kitsap Peninsula, Federal Way, Olympia, Puyallup, Lakewood, South King County, Pierce County, and surrounding locations.
F.A.Q.s
Do you work with dogs that have a bite history or display human aggression?
Yes, in some cases. Dogs with a bite history or human aggression may be considered following a consultation and behavioral evaluation. Because these cases require specialized handling and a more individualized training plan, availability may be limited and the recommended program may be longer than our standard camps.
Every dog is evaluated individually so we can determine the safest and most appropriate training approach. Program length, scheduling, and trainer availability will be discussed during your consultation.
Why should I invest in your board and train program?
Our Board and Train program offers a comprehensive, results-driven approach to dog training. By immersing your dog in a structured environment with personalized, one-on-one attention from experienced trainers, we address behavioral challenges, teach essential skills, and build a strong foundation for long-term success.
This program saves you time and ensures consistency in training, which is crucial for lasting results. Plus, we provide follow-up support to help you maintain your dog’s progress at home. It’s not just an investment in training—it’s an investment in a happier, more harmonious life with your dog.
How often will I get updates?
We provide regular updates through our social media channels (Instagram and Facebook) so you can follow your dog’s progress. Clients without social media will receive updates via text or email. If you have any concerns, feel free to reach out at any time.
Are e-collars ethical?
When used correctly, e-collars are a valuable tool for communication, not punishment. We teach dogs to understand the e-collar as an extension of the leash, enabling clear and gentle communication both on and off the leash.
E-collars allow you to guide your dog in any setting—at home, on walks, or off-leash in the field—with precision and minimal pressure. They are safe, humane, and effective when paired with proper training techniques.
What training methods do you use?
We take a balanced approach to training, combining structure, clear expectations, and positive reinforcement. While we use treats and praise to reward desired behaviors, we also incorporate corrections and pressure when necessary. Our goal is to teach dogs through all four quadrants of learning: positive reinforcement, negative reinforcement, positive punishment, and negative punishment.
This comprehensive approach ensures fairness, clarity, and long-term success for both you and your dog.
Can I visit my dog during training?
While we understand the desire to visit your dog, doing so can disrupt their training. Dogs are here because of associations formed in their home environment, and we work to reset those associations for better outcomes. Reintroducing owners prematurely can confuse the dog and set back progress.
Rest assured, the bond between you and your dog will grow stronger after training as we help transfer their new skills and mindset back to your home.
What if I have another dog at home that isn’t trained?
No problem! Our training doesn’t just focus on your dog’s time with us—we also provide you with the tools and knowledge to create a balanced environment at home. During the program, we’ll give clear guidance on how to manage interactions between your trained and untrained dogs, ensuring consistency and harmony. If needed, we can also recommend training options for your other dog to help the whole household thrive. For households with dogs actively fighting, we recommend seeking specialized training.
I don’t want to send my dog away.
We completely understand—it can be hard to be apart from your furry friend. Our Board and Train program is designed to provide focused, professional training in a structured environment, ensuring your dog makes real progress in a short amount of time. Throughout the program, we keep you updated on their progress, and when your dog returns home, we’ll guide you on how to maintain their new skills. It’s a temporary separation for long-term benefits, leading to a happier, more balanced relationship with your dog.
What if I don’t have the equipment I need?
We provide all the necessary equipment for training, including collars, leashes, and e-collars. You’ll leave fully equipped to continue your dog’s progress at home.
What is your facility like?
Our facilities are in our homes, ensuring your dog is never left unattended. I live on 3 acres of countryside outside Seattle, WA, with large fenced fields for safe play and recall practice. There are dedicated spaces for sniffing, playing, and relaxing when your dog isn’t in training.
Contact Premier Canine - Your Local Dog Trainers
Take Your Dog’s Off-Leash Obedience to the Next Level!
If your dog’s behavior needs a little fine-tuning, we’re here to help. Send us a message today!
We’ll arrange a quick call to discuss your goals and create a custom training plan that fits your dog and your lifestyle. Let’s work together to bring out the best in your dog!
– Rachel, Premier Canine
Located in Port Orchard