Business Details
Expert Dog Training & Daycare Services in Salinas, CA
Founded on principles of trust and respect, From The Heart Animal Behavior has dedicated decades to transforming canine behavior through positive, pain-free methods. Our team, led by internationally recognized trainer Barbara DeGroodt, combines 60 years of hands-on experience with evidence-based techniques to address behavioral challenges and strengthen human-dog bonds. We specialize in obedience training, socialization programs, and personalized consultations, prioritizing safety, mental stimulation, and ethical practices.Our state-certified facility in Salinas, CA, offers structured group classes, in-home training, and daycare services designed to meet diverse needs while maintaining rigorous health standards. Recognized nationally for excellence, including the Westminster Trainer of the Year award, we remain committed to advancing animal welfare through education, mentorship, and community outreach.
Services
Dog Obedience Training
Doggie Daycare
Private Consultations
Fun-gility Classes
Small Dog Social
Highlights and features
- We use trust-based training methods developed over 60 years of professional experience.
- Our facility maintains rigorous safety standards with vaccination requirements and behavioral assessments.
- We offer flexible solutions including in-home training for dogs with unique needs.
- Our team includes nationally recognized experts like Westminster Trainer of the Year recipient.
- We prioritize mental development through structured socialization programs for puppies and small dogs.
Associations and certifications
- International Association of Canine Professionals Hall of Fame
What people say
Best training methods
Excellent socialization opportunities
Effective behavior solutions
Professional expertise
Positive results
Services
Dog Obedience Training
Our behavior-based training programs teach essential commands like sit, stay, and heel while building mutual respect between dogs and owners. Classes focus on positive reinforcement techniques to develop good manners and strengthen bonds. The 10,000 sq ft facility provides a safe environment for dogs to learn basic obedience skills through interactive exercises and play-based learning activities.
Doggie Daycare
Paws at Play daycare offers supervised socialization and exercise for dogs when owners are away. Our centrally located facility features structured play sessions, professional supervision, and enrichment activities to prevent boredom-related behaviors. Dogs must pass behavioral assessments and maintain current vaccinations to ensure a safe environment for all participants during their daily care sessions.
Private Consultations
Customized one-on-one training addresses specific behavioral issues in the dog's natural environment. This service works best for dogs with severe behavioral problems or owners with scheduling constraints. Our certified trainers develop personalized behavior modification plans while teaching owners effective communication techniques to implement at home.
Fun-gility Classes
Low-impact agility courses improve coordination and confidence through obstacle courses designed for recreational play rather than competition. Classes held Monday evenings feature changing course layouts and flexible drop-in scheduling. The non-stressful environment allows dogs to explore agility equipment at their own pace while building physical and mental skills.
Small Dog Social
Weekly socialization sessions help small dogs under 30 pounds develop proper canine communication skills. Held Saturday mornings, these events focus on safe interactions between puppies and adult dogs under professional supervision. Participants must pass behavioral evaluations to ensure positive experiences while learning appropriate social behaviors through guided dog-to-dog interactions.
People
Barbara DeGroodt
Founder/Dog Trainer
Internationally recognized dog training expert with 60+ years experience, Barbara developed pain-free training methods recognized by the International Association of Canine Professionals Hall of Fame. She pioneered behavior-based programs at From The Heart Animal Behavior, emphasizing trust-building and mental development for canines.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use trust-based, pain-free methods focusing on positive reinforcement and mutual respect between dogs and owners.
Do you offer in-home training sessions?
Yes, we provide private in-home training for dogs with special needs or owners with scheduling constraints.
What are your vaccination requirements?
Dogs must have current Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella vaccines. Puppies need at least one vaccination to participate.
How do you handle behavioral assessments?
We conduct interviews and trial days to evaluate each dog's temperament and ensure compatibility with our programs.
What services are available for small dogs?
We offer weekly Small Dog Social events and specialized training programs for dogs under 30 pounds or 6 months old.
Are your trainers certified professionals?
Our lead trainer Barbara DeGroodt is a nationally recognized expert with certifications from major canine professional organizations.
