Pawtopia Dog Training - La Jolla, California

Garret Milligan

Unparalleled expertise, knowledge, patience, and professionalism are a few words I would use to describe Colleen and Pawtopia Dog Training. I was introduced to Colleen in 2012 and was beyond impressed with the training she provided my Rottweiler puppy. Last year I got another Rottweiler puppy and Colleen was the first call I made; there isn't anyone else I would trust with training my dog!

Thank you, Colleen, for the confidence you've instilled in me knowing that I can take Benz anywhere and he'll be so well behaved that the restaurant staff doesn't notice him laying next to me! You're the best!

Theresa Steitz

Colleen's expertise as a dog trainer is truly remarkable. Her profound understanding of canine behavior allows her to quickly establish a deep connection between owner and dog. What sets her apart is her insight that it's the dog who needs training, not just the owner. Under Colleen's guidance, my once rambunctious golden retriever transformed into a calm and cooperative companion, reaching a level of training akin to that of a service dog. Her approach emphasizes fostering communication and enabling dogs to self-calm, resulting in a harmonious owner-dog relationship. I highly recommend Colleen for anyone seeking a dedicated and effective dog trainer.

L B

Colleen is a highly skilled, patient, and wonderful trainer, for both dogs and their owners! We are indebted to her help with our young jack russell terrier and older doodle. She can easily handle challenging breeds and issues and breaks things down to be manageable. We've worked with many other trainers over the years and Colleen is the best, ever!

Chris Barnes

My dog was leash reactive towards other dogs. I tried several trainers before I met Colleen. They either didn’t listen to my concerns, had only one approach towards training or spent the time trying to sell me on an expensive package of training sessions. I had given up hope but then my vet recommended Colleen. She was fabulous! She listened to my concerns and designed a custom behavioral modification plan for my dog based on his personality and motivations. We made more progress with her in a few months than we had working with other trainers for years. My dog and I can finally enjoy stress free walks. I can’t recommend her enough!

Leni Cornell

Highly recommend! We have worked with Pawtopia many times through the years with our dogs and fosters. From basic training to specific issues they always have the knowledge and expertise to help us be successful and make it fun at the same time.

Skyler Woodworth

Colleen is an absolute professional with a vast amount of experience. When you work with her you realize you’re working with a person who’s truly found their calling. Not only are my pups more obedient, but Colleen has equipped me with the knowledge on how to effectively handle them in all situations. She’s the best!

Lab Campana

Colleen is an amazing dog trainer!! Over the years, she has trained three of our large and athletic dogs. They all respect her, and have learned a ton from her sessions. I can't say enough great things about Colleen. We consider her our family dog trainer, and lucky to have her help us train our dogs. Wendy C

Lisa Berning

Colleen is the most knowledgeable and skilled trainer I’ve ever come in contact with. She is one of a kind. Our 3 dogs not only respect her BUT love her. We aren’t just her clients, she truly cares. She has become family.