Premier canine
Gig Harbor Dog Trainers
Who We Are At Premier Canine
At Premier Canine, we’re dedicated to helping every dog in Gig Harbor reach their full potential with personalized training, expert guidance, and compassionate care.
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
At Premier Canine, we specialize in helping high-energy, anxious, or easily distracted dogs become calm, confident, and well-mannered companions. Our effective training methods ensure you can proudly take your dog anywhere with ease.
In just a few weeks, you’ll go from feeling frustrated to experiencing remarkable obedience and a stronger bond with your dog. We focus on lasting results, setting you up for a lifetime of happiness with your four-legged friend.
Our board-and-train program proudly serves Gig Harbor and surrounding areas, including Tacoma, Bremerton, Seattle, Olympia, and the greater Puget Sound region. We’re committed to making dog training a smooth, stress-free experience.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to meet your trusted Gig Harbor dog trainers and achieve the well-trained dog you’ve always wanted!
Hi! I’m Rachel, the founder of Premier Canine!
At Premier Canine, we specialize in helping high-energy, anxious, or easily distracted dogs become calm, confident, and well-mannered companions. Our effective training methods ensure you can proudly take your dog anywhere with ease.
In just a few weeks, you’ll go from feeling frustrated to experiencing remarkable obedience and a stronger bond with your dog. We focus on lasting results, setting you up for a lifetime of happiness with your four-legged friend.
Our board-and-train program proudly serves Gig Harbor and surrounding areas, including Tacoma, Bremerton, Seattle, Olympia, and the greater Puget Sound region. We’re committed to making dog training a smooth, stress-free experience.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to meet your trusted Gig Harbor dog trainers and achieve the well-trained dog you’ve always wanted!
What’s Offered
✓ Our Training Approach: At Premier Canine, we utilize Balanced Dog Training methods to unlock your dog’s full potential. Our customized Board and Train programs are designed to address each dog’s specific needs, delivering effective and lasting results.
✓ Service Areas: We proudly serve Gig Harbor and surrounding communities, including Tacoma, Bremerton, Seattle, Olympia, Port Orchard, Puyallup, Federal Way, Shelton, and beyond.
✓ Follow-Up Lessons: Upon completing the program, you’ll receive up to five follow-up training sessions to reinforce and maintain your dog’s progress.
✓ Open Availability: We’re currently welcoming new clients and look forward to helping your dog succeed!
− Exclusions: For safety reasons, we are unable to accept dogs with a history of biting humans. Visit our FAQ for more details.
Ready To Get Started?
Take the first step toward a well-behaved, confident companion. Whether you’re looking to improve obedience, resolve behavioral issues, or strengthen your bond, our Gig Harbor dog trainers are ready to help. Contact us today to learn more about our tailored training programs and schedule your dog’s first session!
Ready To Get Started?
Take the first step toward a well-behaved, confident companion. Whether you’re looking to improve obedience, resolve behavioral issues, or strengthen your bond, our Gig Harbor dog trainers are ready to help. Contact us today to learn more about our tailored training 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
Ready to create a happier, more well-behaved companion?
Think this is the right fit for your family? Click below to schedule your free consultation!
Camps and pricing/investment
Puppy camp
Puppy camp (10 Days)
(16 weeks old up to 6 months)
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
1-2 hour lesson, updates via Instagram, collar/leash used during training, lifetime support, discount for adult camp if booked within the first 6 months of completing puppy camp.
adult camp
2 Week camp
(at least 6 months old, dogs with minimal behavior problems/some training, returning dogs after completing puppy camp)
Investment: $3200 (If completed puppy camp: $2900)
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, 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.
Split camp
(at least 6 months old)
Investment: $4000
Camp includes
Reliable on/off leash obedience, manners, at home strategy plan to maintain success at home. Camp is broken into two 10-14 day camps, on leash/foundational training during first half, ecollar and distraction work during the second half, owner will be more involved with training process with their dog.
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, counter surfing, begging, play biting, moderate reactivity, moderate nervousness/fear, moderate anxiety
Also includes
One 1-2 hour lesson after each section, check in and couching between camps, ecollar, training collar, 2 additional lessons after camp if needed, updates via Instagram, lifetime support.
Exclusions
The following dogs are not a good fit for our camps because we do not offer training camps long enough to address these behaviors safely and efficiently:
- Any human aggression, including bite history, if the dog will bite a human
- Food aggression
- Severe fear, anxiety, nervousness
- Severe dog/animal aggression (has killed or will kill another animal)
- Same household dog aggression/fighting
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 passion is helping dogs develop confidence while mastering obedience and off-leash skills.
My journey with dogs began early, inspired by my mother, an experienced trainer who competed in obedience and conformation shows. Growing up on a six-acre property filled with horses, dogs, and cats, I quickly learned the importance of creating harmony among animals.
Living in the countryside, I enjoyed teaching my dogs obedience alongside my horse and working with groups of dogs in various settings. I also encountered many stray and unwanted dogs, giving me hands-on experience training a wide range of breeds and temperaments.
By the age of 18, I had trained or rehomed countless dogs, including Huskies, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Bulldogs, Great Pyrenees, Labs, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Pugs, Pomeranians, Dobermans, and many mixed breeds. As I advanced in my career, I expanded my expertise to include conformation, weight pulling, dock diving, agility, AKC obedience, and French Ring Sport.
Some of my proudest moments include earning multiple obedience titles, including several high-in-trial placements. The strong connections I’ve built with my dogs have been incredibly rewarding, and I love helping others create that same bond.
At Premier Canine, my focus is on gradually and reliably increasing a dog’s confidence so they can thrive in any environment. Together, we’ll develop a lasting partnership with your dog, ensuring better behavior, stronger obedience, and a happier life for both of you.
Sarah Mueller
Canine Enthusiast at Your Service!
Hi, I’m Sarah, the newest member of the Premier Canine team! My journey with dog training started at just five years old, and my passion for understanding canine behavior, competing in dog sports, and continuous learning has only grown stronger.
In my free time, I enjoy participating in AKC Obedience, French Ring Sport, and other competitive dog events.
I specialize in using my in-depth knowledge of canine behavior to address even the most challenging training issues. My experience as a veterinary assistant also allows me to recognize concerns related to dog safety and nutrition, ensuring a well-rounded approach to training.
I’m especially passionate about helping dog owners create a structured environment where their dogs can truly thrive. Whether your dog struggles with reactivity, crate training, or house manners, I’m here to provide expert guidance and support.
If you’ve struggled with training in the past or don’t know where to start, I’d love to help you and your dog build a stronger, more balanced relationship!
Sarah Mueller
Canine Enthusiast at Your Service!
Hi, I’m Sarah, the newest member of the Premier Canine team! My journey with dog training started at just five years old, and my passion for understanding canine behavior, competing in dog sports, and continuous learning has only grown stronger.
In my free time, I enjoy participating in AKC Obedience, French Ring Sport, and other competitive dog events.
I specialize in using my in-depth knowledge of canine behavior to address even the most challenging training issues. My experience as a veterinary assistant also allows me to recognize concerns related to dog safety and nutrition, ensuring a well-rounded approach to training.
I’m especially passionate about helping dog owners create a structured environment where their dogs can truly thrive. Whether your dog struggles with reactivity, crate training, or house manners, I’m here to provide expert guidance and support.
If you’ve struggled with training in the past or don’t know where to start, I’d love to help you and your dog build a stronger, more balanced relationship!
Michelle
A Loving Retired RN with a Lifelong Passion for Dogs
Hi, I’m Michelle! After 26 years as a registered nurse, I’m now following my lifelong passion for working with dogs. Before my nursing career, I spent a decade as a veterinary technician and began training and rescuing animals as a teenager. My love for dogs has been a constant throughout my life.
In my teens and early twenties, I trained and competed in AKC obedience and conformation with Dobermans and Huskies. I also volunteered with the Doberman Rescue League in South Florida, helping rehabilitate dogs by rebuilding trust, teaching obedience, and boosting their confidence.
Even during my years in nursing, I remained dedicated to rescuing and training unwanted dogs and cats, working alongside my three daughters to rehabilitate animals in need. Teaching my daughters the importance of care and training has been one of my greatest joys.
Now retired, I’m fortunate to join my daughter Rachel in her work at Premier Canine, reigniting our shared passion for helping dogs. Working alongside Rachel and Sarah is a privilege, and while I assist wherever needed, my favorite part is caring for and playing with the dogs—some of our campers never seem to get tired of fetch!
I feel truly blessed to spend my days surrounded by dogs and to have returned to the work that brings me so much happiness.
D’Artagnan & Ghost
Trusted Canine Coaches: The Malinois & Samoyed Dream Team
At Premier Canine, D’Artagnan (a Malinois) and Ghost (a Samoyed) play a crucial role in our training programs! As our first neutral distractions, they’ve been essential in helping nervous or reactive dogs build confidence.
D’Artagnan’s calm and steady nature provides reassurance, creating a sense of security for dogs in training. Meanwhile, Ghost’s playful and friendly energy helps dogs feel comfortable, making the learning process both engaging and enjoyable.
Ghost also excels at modeling appropriate play behaviors, ensuring training sessions are both fun and productive. Together, they make the perfect team, guiding dogs through new experiences and fostering positive interactions!
D’Artagnan & Ghost
Trusted Canine Coaches: The Malinois & Samoyed Dream Team
At Premier Canine, D’Artagnan (a Malinois) and Ghost (a Samoyed) play a crucial role in our training programs! As our first neutral distractions, they’ve been essential in helping nervous or reactive dogs build confidence.
D’Artagnan’s calm and steady nature provides reassurance, creating a sense of security for dogs in training. Meanwhile, Ghost’s playful and friendly energy helps dogs feel comfortable, making the learning process both engaging and enjoyable.
Ghost also excels at modeling appropriate play behaviors, ensuring training sessions are both fun and productive. Together, they make the perfect team, guiding dogs through new experiences and fostering positive interactions!
Our Past Canine Transformations
Where We Train
Premier Canine provides expert dog training and boarding services throughout the Puget Sound and Greater Seattle area. Our service areas include Gig Harbor, Tacoma, Seattle, Bremerton, Port Orchard, Shelton, the Kitsap Peninsula, Federal Way, Olympia, Puyallup, Lakewood, South King County, Pierce County, and nearby communities.
F.A.Q.s
Do you work with dogs that have a bite history or display human aggression?
We specialize in creating harmony between clients and their dogs, but we do not work with dogs that have a history of biting or display human aggression. Our training camps are not designed to safely or effectively address these behaviors. We are happy to refer you to trainers who specialize in this area.
We may work with dogs displaying human reactivity on a case-by-case basis after a thorough evaluation.
Why do you split your board and train programs?
We offer several program options to best meet the unique needs of each client, their dog, and their training goals. This flexibility ensures we can provide the most effective and personalized training experience.
Do you work with dogs that fight in the same household?
We do not offer training for households with dogs that are actively fighting. However, we can assist with minor issues between dogs in the same home and help create a more peaceful environment.
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 & Sarah, Premier Canine