Workshops

3+ days of hands-on experience and expert insight that equips participants with the knowledge and confidence they need to train dogs. Working and non-working (audit) spots are available for each workshop.

What is a workshop?

Focusing solely on the owners and dogs present, everything we address will align with the behaviors, goals and experience of the group. We will work the dogs attending the workshop in a variety of ways, adjusting locations dependent upon the comfort and level of the group. Throughout each day there is plentiful time for questions.

Our workshops are an incredible opportunity for both new and experienced dog owners and trainers alike. By covering a comprehensive range of training topics, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding and skills in various areas, making it a highly valuable experience.

Similar to a really great shadowing opportunity, an Audit/Non-working Spot allows you to observe various dogs and owners work through different situations with Samantha’s guidance. Non-working spots allow you to be focus solely on the material, take notes and gather all the knowledge to apply without having to manage a dog at the same time.
A Working Spot an interactive role where participants bring their dogs to partake in the training. Whether attendees are looking to work with their own dogs or are traveling and need a dog provided, there is flexibility for accommodation.
Every student with a working spot will have the opportunity to personally execute training methods and techniques. This practical, immediate feedback is beneficial for both the dog and the owner. Each challenge or success becomes a real-time learning experience.
Each person with a dog will start the day working their dog for 15-20 concentrated minutes. After the dogs are exhausted and questions are asked, we have lunch together. The afternoon will include more solo dog work, group work and/or pack walks.
Scroll down for a more in-depth schedule!
We typically start in a large space, allowing dogs with reactivity, anxiety, etc. enough room to work. Dependent upon the group, we may move locations to more advanced areas; if we are in LA, we’ll likely head back to Samantha’s back yard!
Yes! We frequently start off in a large area, utilizing the tool of space to allow for you and your dog to work through any problems/challenges with Samantha’s help.
No. Anyone is welcome! With our trainers expertise and structure of the workshop, we ensure the safety of and optimal training environment for the owners and dogs involved. If you’re new to Pack Life, a great place to start is the membership page, all videos from previous workshops are on there. If you have questions, please reach out.
A dinner is provided Saturday evening. Please bring your own snacks and packed lunches for the other days. These are long days bring your water and food!
Recording training sessions can be a great learning tool for owners and trainers. It allows for review, reflection, and improvement. I record our workshop sessions and they are shared on the membership page so you can go back and watch, allowing you to stay in the moment
There are a lot of trainers that do not allow attendees to record or take photos - we do! I always strive to maintain transparency in my techniques. You're always welcome to record. All dogs deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, whether in an open space or behind the scenes and at Pack Life LA we do exactly that. I have complete confidence in my methods, and I believe they’re suitable for all to see and learn from.
My goal is to build a trusting relationship between the dog and owner. I strive to teach you methods that are humane, transparent, and effective.
- chair
- water (for yourself)
- food/snack (for yourself)
Working Spots
Please bring a crate for your dog
Dogs do go in the crate when you are not working - this is for you to be able to relax / learn and for everyone to stay safe.
Treats & e-collar if you use one or are hoping to layer one on over the weekend
I only recommend e-collar technologies for the best quality and safety for our dogs. That said, I am happy to try out and work with whatever e-collar you have purchased.
We understand that plans can change, but due to the nature of our events and the resources involved in organizing them, we have a strict policy regarding refunds and rescheduling.
Refund Policy: Once you have purchased a ticket for our workshop or advanced class, refunds will not be provided for cancellations made within three weeks prior to the event date. This policy applies regardless of the reason for cancellation, including but not limited to personal emergencies, scheduling conflicts, or any other unforeseen circumstances.
Rescheduling Policy: If you wish to reschedule your attendance to a different date or event, you may do so within the allowed timeframe, which is at least three weeks prior to the event date, subject to availability. Rescheduling requests made within three weeks of the event date will not be accommodated.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation regarding our policy. By purchasing a ticket to our workshop or advanced class, you acknowledge and agree to abide by these terms and conditions.

What will we cover?

FUNDAMENTALS

Leash work, crate, yes work, place + : These are critical for control, connection, building neutrality around stimuli and safety, especially in public spaces or when the dog needs to be secure at home.
E-COLLAR

Learn to utilize the e-collar effectively and humanely. Incorporating the use of an e-collar also opens up a broader range of training techniques and methods for those who are interested or already utilizing this tool.
RELATIONSHIP BUILDING

Build a strong, respectful relationship with your dog through understanding their communication cues, providing appropriate stimulation, and learning how to effectively use reward-based positive reinforcement.
BEHAVIOR

We can address any behavior that comes up/is presented in the group and more, including: reactivity, aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, or excessive barking.
PLAY +

Understanding what constitutes healthy play is key to ensuring your dog is socializing appropriately. We will cover using play to physically/mentally drain your pup, redirect behavior, fulfillment and impulse control.
BODY LANGUAGE

Dogs communicate largely through body language. By understanding what their movements, posture, and facial expressions indicate, you'll be able to interpret their mood, stress level, and intentions. This helps prevent mishaps and misunderstandings between you and your dog, strengthening your relationship.
BASIC OBEDIENCE

This will include commands like sit, stay, come and leave it.
NEUTRALITY

Each of the components we review are integral to helping your dog become calm and neutral. We will go in depth on what neutrality is and how to achieve it.
IMPULSE CONTROL

Impulse control is a major factor in neutrality. Working impulse control is necessary with all dogs and can have profound impacts on working through various behavioral issues

★★★★★

Working : Dog Reactivity

“Completely unsure of what to expect and confident I might have to leave because of my dog’s intense dog reactivity, with Samantha’s expert guidance and support of the group, I was able to experience the potential my dog has to be calm and non-reactive and learn what I need to do to help us get there.”
Non-working

“One of my favorite things about workshops is the people you meet.”
Working : Socialization

“Receiving feedback in real time, and watching others receive feedback in real time was so valuable. A workshop is the perfect place to be able to test a variety of things in a safe and productive atmosphere and receive instruction as to how to apply these tools in life. Samantha is empathetic and empowering to people and dogs.”
Working : Reactivity

“I have the membership but it’s invaluable to be in person, working your dog through reactivity issues, making sure it’s done correctly and learn how to read their body language to pull them out of a situation that makes them uncomfortable in a timely manner. The 3 day workshop was intensive and phenomenal. Samantha’s leadership was impressive and her leadership was impeccable.”
Non-working

“If you only attend one workshop in your life, make it a Pack Life LA one. The community she has built is the most beautiful thing I’ve seen inside this industry since I started training.”