Testimonials & Referrals
Jessica Guttmann, Regional Strategist for Best Friends Animal Society in UT, writes:
"I recommend Julie Westphal for all things behavior, training, and enrichment. I’ve known Julie since 2015 and I am always in awe of her knowledge, talent, and gifts related to dog behavior and training. She is compelling, engaging, kind, and inspiring. Julie is a dog trainer, behavioral consultant, and Level 3 Certified Fear Free Professional. She uses science-based and fear-free training methods. Julie is one of the most knowledgeable and impressive dog professionals I have ever met. She lives and breathes dogs. I have seen her work with numerous dogs for various reasons; she always produces impressive results. Most relevant to sanctuary needs, she does behavioral rehabilitation for dogs who are fearful, anxious, reactive, have aggression issues, etc. Many of those dogs were rescue dogs at risk of euthanasia and had a second chance, thanks to her. She trains dogs for, honestly, almost everything. Behavior modification, obedience, rally, agility, tricks, Schutzhund/IPO, nose work, tracking, service dog/task training, cooperative care, etc. Dogs are her thing, but she’s also trained and worked with some other species. She even trained a fish! All of her personal dogs are exemplary, a testament to her skill. In addition to impeccable obedience, they all participate in various dog sports and have multiple titles and awards. She has a background that includes over 15 years of operating her own dog training business, managing dog boarding/daycare, veterinary technician (including ER/critical care work) and the director of training and enrichment programs at various locations. She’s conducted engaging presentations on health and behavior topics in a variety of forums. Helping dogs in need, she’s planned numerous fundraisers and fundraising events to benefit recue groups. Julie’s knowledge, abilities, and passion for helping dogs and people make her a stellar person that I can highly recommend!”
Shannon B, Animal Care Technician for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue and Ryder's owner in Phoenix, AZ, writes:
"Ryder has only had his first session with The Trekking Dog Trainer and omg I have so much hope for my giant lab now!!! Julie Westphal is so great about teaching. Never once did she make me feel silly or stupid for not knowing something. She never put me or my dog down or made us feel like he needs to board and train. Julie is patient and understanding and is a behaviorist rather than trainer. She focuses on proactivity rather than reactivity. I highly, highly, highly recommend Julie's affordable services for any of my Arizona pet parents!!!"
Jamie Bonacci, Medical Pet Health Director for Lost Our Home in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"...I am the medical director at the shelter she has been a part of for since Nov 3rd, 2022], Not only has she been extremely helpful assisting as a technician with her medical knowledge she has done amazing work with the behavior program. The training and enrichment she has brought in has changed so many dogs' lives for the better in a short span of time. The work she has done with our 3 most difficult canines is nothing short of a Miracle. In 20+ years of shelter work she is one of the best behavioral trainers I've seen!"
Karen Anderson, Program & Community Engagement Director for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"In the short time I worked with Julie, she was able to make some significant positive changes with some of our long-term problem dogs. There were dogs that were dog reactive, would redirect on a human, would fence fight with other dogs in adjoining play yards and/or would lunge at new people when they approached. Julie was able to have these dogs out in the yard with her dogs in the same yard and other dogs in adjoining yards and was able to keep them focused on her or redirect them with very little coaxing. She was able to introduce them to new people without incident and have other in the yard with her while working with them. Julie was able to reduce the noise level throughout the shelter by teaching the dogs if the were quiet and not jumping, they would receive "payments" by way of treats. In my opinion, Julie is an expert in her craft and will improve the lives of the dogs and any future families of the dogs she works with."
Rebecca C, Animal Care Technician for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue & Gambit's Owner, in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"I worked with Julie for 3 months at a local rescue. Now, I am a natural skeptic and people have varying theories when it comes to dog behavior, so I needed to see her in action before I could put any faith in her. Let me tell you, that didn't take long. We had some dogs that, while we loved them with every fiber of our being, it felt like they were beyond help, behaviorally. Some both human and dog aggressive, and some just dog aggressive. Julie jumped right in and made an unbelievable difference in an extremely short amount of time.
Not only that, but she gave us the tools we needed to ensure that the dogs were behaving not only for her, but for us. She made the skills easily digestible so anybody could understand. So much so that I enlisted her help in working with my own leash aggressive mastiff mix. With her tips and tricks, my boy has come leaps and bounds already. I would recommend Julie to anyone and everyone having behavior issues of any sort with their dogs (even cats, and if you've ever had one, you know what a big deal that is)."
Clodaugh Mc Guinness, Founder of Paws In Trhift Boutique, Key Volunteer with Canine Cupids Rescue and KEy Volunteer at Milwaukee Animal Control in Milwaukee, WI, writes:
“I would give Julie a 5 star rating for her dedication, knowledge and patience with dogs. I have personally watched her dogs in training with a calm, treat motivated, repetitive method. The dogs were relaxed, comfortable and focused on their trainers, waiting to hear what was requested of them. She has donated time to our rescue, Canine Cupids, through offering training tips and Q&A presentations at our non profit pet store. She has supported the store through her classes, advertising and personal donations. It is great to see a trainer also help dogs less fortunate in rescue and give them an opportunity to thrive and live their best lives
Mobile Pet Doctor, Dr Bob (DVM) in Wisconsin, writes:
“Mobile Pet Doctor has had the pleasure of working with Julie Westphal since 2015. Our clients and I are very happy with her comprehensive and positive approach to resolve each unique behavioral modification and training case. Julie’s expertise, knowledge, and passion have made it easy for us to continue recommending her with confidence over the years!”
Jeni Hudson, CVT & Founder of Hudson’s Halfway Home Dog Rescue in Illinois, writes:
“I met Julie for the first time on a rescue mission. Since then she has been an awesome resource for me, teaching me so much! We have used her fear free Lodge N Learn Program several times for fear and aggression cases for our rescue and it is always awesome to see them blossom with all the video and picture updates! Highly recommend Julie, who is an asset that is much needed! All interactions have been done wonderfully and we are beyond happy with our experiences with her. The ONLY person I would recommend!"
Mary Palmer, President of Northcentral Maltese Rescue, writes:
“Julie is a natural with working with dogs. She has the knowledge to communicate and understand them more than anyone I know. NMR, Inc has had the privilege to consult with Julie about many dog behaviors as well as having Julie show case her talents at our annual picnics several times. I have seen what she has accomplished with her own beloved Guinness and it was truly amazing for all to have the opportunity to see…and to see her use the same path for one of 4.5lb little ones, Julie has our highest recommendations!”
Samantha Kupper, Manager at The Woof Dog Daycare and former President of HOPE Safehouse Animal Rescue in WI, writes:
“Julie has been a great help! She has helped me work with some pretty tough foster dogs and is a great dog trainer that will always do what is best for the dogs!”
Live Oak Health – Acupuncture, Massage, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition in Wisconsin, writes:
“As a practitioner of healthy, healing, therapeutic touch, I so appreciate the amazing, positive dog trainer, Julie Westphal. Touch is a privilege and accepting it is a CHOICE, applies to all ages and species!” Cooperative Care for the win!
Amy Ray, Veterinary Hospital Owner for Belle City Veterinary Hospital in Wi, writes:
“Julie was a licensed technician for us for a number of years. She brought not only solid technical skills, but a sparkling enthusiasm to the table. Julie has a never-ending supply of new, fresh marketing ideas and is always willing to jump in with both feet. She has a natural talent, not only for handling dogs, but presenting skills to them in such a relaxed and gentle manner that they develop beautifully. Julie trains so that the owners of the dogs she works with learn how to deepen their relationships with that very important furry member. Highly recommend Julie and her services to anyone!”
Clover Pup Grooming Salon, in WI, writes:
“We are so excited and honored to have the opportunity to work with her, both through classes and workshops held here at the Salon, as well as with the Clover Pup Salon team to ensure that we are always providing the best experience for every pup to visit us!”
Viv Aikin, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“ Julie’s Lodge N Learn Program has been a Godsend for us. We adopted our Lab, Farley, in May 2017 and soon realized that his life as a stray left him with serious behavioral issues that needed more attention than even we, as experienced dog owners, could provide. It is truly amazing what Julie and her Harper have been able to accomplish with Farley. For example, we no longer worry that he will be aggressive towards other dogs while on our walks. After working with Julie, he walks like a perfect gentleman without any hostility. Instead of barking incessantly when he wants something, he will settle nicely for us and wait for us. Now when we go on vacation and Farley goes for refresher Lodge N Learn, we know Julie will work on any of his behaviors issues and Farley will have great fun as well!”
Jessie Wollmuth, student in Michigan, writes:
“If you are in need of a good dog trainer, Julie is your girl!”
Debra Harris, student in Indiana, writes:
"Let’s see what is the first thing I can say about Julie Westphal…She is phenomenal, a dog whisperer. The first time I met her I was impressed. She has a talent that most of us don’t. I wish I was a 1/4 of what she is with the talent and patience she has it just amazes me. I met Julie [in 2021] because of my Mini Aussie, Brody. At first he wouldn’t take anything from her, but when we had her house sit for us last year he warmed right up to her like I remember you…you want to retrain my mom, lol. I still work with my Brody; probably not as much as what I should but I could see a positive change in him even though I can’t work with him as much as what I would like due to my work schedule but when I am and can I work with him to the best of my knowledge. I never had a high energy dog before and even though sometimes he tries my patience I think how would Julie handle the situation. I just wish that she was much closer so that she can train me more. Trust me you would never regret hiring Julie for anything. She needs her own TV show!"
Jenny Garity, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“Julie came to our house and we are already seeing great improvements in our puppy’s behavior in just 2 days! The skills she taught my husband, me, and our 3 kids will be used for years to come. I’m SO glad we made the decision to have in-home training! Julie and her training techniques are life-savers! We look forward to group classes in the future!”
Nancy Patti, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“Julie is an Awesome trainer. She has helped our 4 year old dog start to overcome her issues at the vet’s office. She offers to come and assist even though she no longer works at the office because that is how much she cares that me and my dog are successful at the vet’s office. When we took classes with our youngest dog, if your dog doesn’t get it, she will help you to make sure you succeed. If you need any help with your dog or just need some advice – Julie is your person!”
Katie Large, student and now dog trainer for her company in Wisconsin, writes:
I" have witnessed Julie's work with dogs from all stages of life and behaviors. Her experience is very well-rounded due to years in many different settings. She is very kind and empathetic to the human learner while prioritizing the animal's welfare and learning experience. I would trust Julie to keep my dogs safe physically AND emotionally. 10/10 recommend!"
"I recommend Julie Westphal for all things behavior, training, and enrichment. I’ve known Julie since 2015 and I am always in awe of her knowledge, talent, and gifts related to dog behavior and training. She is compelling, engaging, kind, and inspiring. Julie is a dog trainer, behavioral consultant, and Level 3 Certified Fear Free Professional. She uses science-based and fear-free training methods. Julie is one of the most knowledgeable and impressive dog professionals I have ever met. She lives and breathes dogs. I have seen her work with numerous dogs for various reasons; she always produces impressive results. Most relevant to sanctuary needs, she does behavioral rehabilitation for dogs who are fearful, anxious, reactive, have aggression issues, etc. Many of those dogs were rescue dogs at risk of euthanasia and had a second chance, thanks to her. She trains dogs for, honestly, almost everything. Behavior modification, obedience, rally, agility, tricks, Schutzhund/IPO, nose work, tracking, service dog/task training, cooperative care, etc. Dogs are her thing, but she’s also trained and worked with some other species. She even trained a fish! All of her personal dogs are exemplary, a testament to her skill. In addition to impeccable obedience, they all participate in various dog sports and have multiple titles and awards. She has a background that includes over 15 years of operating her own dog training business, managing dog boarding/daycare, veterinary technician (including ER/critical care work) and the director of training and enrichment programs at various locations. She’s conducted engaging presentations on health and behavior topics in a variety of forums. Helping dogs in need, she’s planned numerous fundraisers and fundraising events to benefit recue groups. Julie’s knowledge, abilities, and passion for helping dogs and people make her a stellar person that I can highly recommend!”
Shannon B, Animal Care Technician for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue and Ryder's owner in Phoenix, AZ, writes:
"Ryder has only had his first session with The Trekking Dog Trainer and omg I have so much hope for my giant lab now!!! Julie Westphal is so great about teaching. Never once did she make me feel silly or stupid for not knowing something. She never put me or my dog down or made us feel like he needs to board and train. Julie is patient and understanding and is a behaviorist rather than trainer. She focuses on proactivity rather than reactivity. I highly, highly, highly recommend Julie's affordable services for any of my Arizona pet parents!!!"
Jamie Bonacci, Medical Pet Health Director for Lost Our Home in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"...I am the medical director at the shelter she has been a part of for since Nov 3rd, 2022], Not only has she been extremely helpful assisting as a technician with her medical knowledge she has done amazing work with the behavior program. The training and enrichment she has brought in has changed so many dogs' lives for the better in a short span of time. The work she has done with our 3 most difficult canines is nothing short of a Miracle. In 20+ years of shelter work she is one of the best behavioral trainers I've seen!"
Karen Anderson, Program & Community Engagement Director for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"In the short time I worked with Julie, she was able to make some significant positive changes with some of our long-term problem dogs. There were dogs that were dog reactive, would redirect on a human, would fence fight with other dogs in adjoining play yards and/or would lunge at new people when they approached. Julie was able to have these dogs out in the yard with her dogs in the same yard and other dogs in adjoining yards and was able to keep them focused on her or redirect them with very little coaxing. She was able to introduce them to new people without incident and have other in the yard with her while working with them. Julie was able to reduce the noise level throughout the shelter by teaching the dogs if the were quiet and not jumping, they would receive "payments" by way of treats. In my opinion, Julie is an expert in her craft and will improve the lives of the dogs and any future families of the dogs she works with."
Rebecca C, Animal Care Technician for Lost Our Home Pet Rescue & Gambit's Owner, in Tempe, Arizona writes:
"I worked with Julie for 3 months at a local rescue. Now, I am a natural skeptic and people have varying theories when it comes to dog behavior, so I needed to see her in action before I could put any faith in her. Let me tell you, that didn't take long. We had some dogs that, while we loved them with every fiber of our being, it felt like they were beyond help, behaviorally. Some both human and dog aggressive, and some just dog aggressive. Julie jumped right in and made an unbelievable difference in an extremely short amount of time.
Not only that, but she gave us the tools we needed to ensure that the dogs were behaving not only for her, but for us. She made the skills easily digestible so anybody could understand. So much so that I enlisted her help in working with my own leash aggressive mastiff mix. With her tips and tricks, my boy has come leaps and bounds already. I would recommend Julie to anyone and everyone having behavior issues of any sort with their dogs (even cats, and if you've ever had one, you know what a big deal that is)."
Clodaugh Mc Guinness, Founder of Paws In Trhift Boutique, Key Volunteer with Canine Cupids Rescue and KEy Volunteer at Milwaukee Animal Control in Milwaukee, WI, writes:
“I would give Julie a 5 star rating for her dedication, knowledge and patience with dogs. I have personally watched her dogs in training with a calm, treat motivated, repetitive method. The dogs were relaxed, comfortable and focused on their trainers, waiting to hear what was requested of them. She has donated time to our rescue, Canine Cupids, through offering training tips and Q&A presentations at our non profit pet store. She has supported the store through her classes, advertising and personal donations. It is great to see a trainer also help dogs less fortunate in rescue and give them an opportunity to thrive and live their best lives
Mobile Pet Doctor, Dr Bob (DVM) in Wisconsin, writes:
“Mobile Pet Doctor has had the pleasure of working with Julie Westphal since 2015. Our clients and I are very happy with her comprehensive and positive approach to resolve each unique behavioral modification and training case. Julie’s expertise, knowledge, and passion have made it easy for us to continue recommending her with confidence over the years!”
Jeni Hudson, CVT & Founder of Hudson’s Halfway Home Dog Rescue in Illinois, writes:
“I met Julie for the first time on a rescue mission. Since then she has been an awesome resource for me, teaching me so much! We have used her fear free Lodge N Learn Program several times for fear and aggression cases for our rescue and it is always awesome to see them blossom with all the video and picture updates! Highly recommend Julie, who is an asset that is much needed! All interactions have been done wonderfully and we are beyond happy with our experiences with her. The ONLY person I would recommend!"
Mary Palmer, President of Northcentral Maltese Rescue, writes:
“Julie is a natural with working with dogs. She has the knowledge to communicate and understand them more than anyone I know. NMR, Inc has had the privilege to consult with Julie about many dog behaviors as well as having Julie show case her talents at our annual picnics several times. I have seen what she has accomplished with her own beloved Guinness and it was truly amazing for all to have the opportunity to see…and to see her use the same path for one of 4.5lb little ones, Julie has our highest recommendations!”
Samantha Kupper, Manager at The Woof Dog Daycare and former President of HOPE Safehouse Animal Rescue in WI, writes:
“Julie has been a great help! She has helped me work with some pretty tough foster dogs and is a great dog trainer that will always do what is best for the dogs!”
Live Oak Health – Acupuncture, Massage, Herbal Medicine, Nutrition in Wisconsin, writes:
“As a practitioner of healthy, healing, therapeutic touch, I so appreciate the amazing, positive dog trainer, Julie Westphal. Touch is a privilege and accepting it is a CHOICE, applies to all ages and species!” Cooperative Care for the win!
Amy Ray, Veterinary Hospital Owner for Belle City Veterinary Hospital in Wi, writes:
“Julie was a licensed technician for us for a number of years. She brought not only solid technical skills, but a sparkling enthusiasm to the table. Julie has a never-ending supply of new, fresh marketing ideas and is always willing to jump in with both feet. She has a natural talent, not only for handling dogs, but presenting skills to them in such a relaxed and gentle manner that they develop beautifully. Julie trains so that the owners of the dogs she works with learn how to deepen their relationships with that very important furry member. Highly recommend Julie and her services to anyone!”
Clover Pup Grooming Salon, in WI, writes:
“We are so excited and honored to have the opportunity to work with her, both through classes and workshops held here at the Salon, as well as with the Clover Pup Salon team to ensure that we are always providing the best experience for every pup to visit us!”
Viv Aikin, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“ Julie’s Lodge N Learn Program has been a Godsend for us. We adopted our Lab, Farley, in May 2017 and soon realized that his life as a stray left him with serious behavioral issues that needed more attention than even we, as experienced dog owners, could provide. It is truly amazing what Julie and her Harper have been able to accomplish with Farley. For example, we no longer worry that he will be aggressive towards other dogs while on our walks. After working with Julie, he walks like a perfect gentleman without any hostility. Instead of barking incessantly when he wants something, he will settle nicely for us and wait for us. Now when we go on vacation and Farley goes for refresher Lodge N Learn, we know Julie will work on any of his behaviors issues and Farley will have great fun as well!”
Jessie Wollmuth, student in Michigan, writes:
“If you are in need of a good dog trainer, Julie is your girl!”
Debra Harris, student in Indiana, writes:
"Let’s see what is the first thing I can say about Julie Westphal…She is phenomenal, a dog whisperer. The first time I met her I was impressed. She has a talent that most of us don’t. I wish I was a 1/4 of what she is with the talent and patience she has it just amazes me. I met Julie [in 2021] because of my Mini Aussie, Brody. At first he wouldn’t take anything from her, but when we had her house sit for us last year he warmed right up to her like I remember you…you want to retrain my mom, lol. I still work with my Brody; probably not as much as what I should but I could see a positive change in him even though I can’t work with him as much as what I would like due to my work schedule but when I am and can I work with him to the best of my knowledge. I never had a high energy dog before and even though sometimes he tries my patience I think how would Julie handle the situation. I just wish that she was much closer so that she can train me more. Trust me you would never regret hiring Julie for anything. She needs her own TV show!"
Jenny Garity, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“Julie came to our house and we are already seeing great improvements in our puppy’s behavior in just 2 days! The skills she taught my husband, me, and our 3 kids will be used for years to come. I’m SO glad we made the decision to have in-home training! Julie and her training techniques are life-savers! We look forward to group classes in the future!”
Nancy Patti, student in Wisconsin, writes:
“Julie is an Awesome trainer. She has helped our 4 year old dog start to overcome her issues at the vet’s office. She offers to come and assist even though she no longer works at the office because that is how much she cares that me and my dog are successful at the vet’s office. When we took classes with our youngest dog, if your dog doesn’t get it, she will help you to make sure you succeed. If you need any help with your dog or just need some advice – Julie is your person!”
Katie Large, student and now dog trainer for her company in Wisconsin, writes:
I" have witnessed Julie's work with dogs from all stages of life and behaviors. Her experience is very well-rounded due to years in many different settings. She is very kind and empathetic to the human learner while prioritizing the animal's welfare and learning experience. I would trust Julie to keep my dogs safe physically AND emotionally. 10/10 recommend!"
