Reviews/ Success Stories

A person smiling with a helmet on, standing next to a mountain bike on a dirt trail with a dog, in a scenic outdoor landscape with trees, mountains, and a lake in the background.

Angelique Carl with Griff, South Lake Tahoe, CA

“If you're in Tahoe and looking for a dog trainer, Sam at Trail Dog Etiquette is your guy. In just two weeks of working with Sam, we went from having a wild animal at the end of our leash to a calm, happy, attentive, and kind pup that is a pleasure to be out with. After a month, we had progressed to taking our formerly highly reactive dog back out on trails, to the dog beach with friends, and even to the public markets. Sam has revived our relationship with our rescue dog and Sam's passion for this work shines through during every session. I truly cannot speak high enough praise for Trail Dog Etiquette!”

A woman smiling and wearing sunglasses walking with her dog by a river in a sunny outdoor setting with trees in the background.

Brianna Duffy, with Raya, Tahoe City, CA

"Trail Dog Etiquette is awesome! Although they are based in South Lake, we made the drive weekly from Tahoe City because our trainer, (Sam) was worth it!!! My dog Raya used to bark at everything, try to chase cars, pulled like a crazy lady on-leash, and thought it was acceptable to run up to everyone and everything. Through our training, Raya and I got to a point that I didn't think was possible. She no longer pulls on walks, will wait politely until released to greet people/ dogs, and cars can pass by at their leisure. She and I have a much stronger bond now. If you're looking for great dog training, look no further!"

A black and white dog sitting on snow in a mountainous forest.

John Cervetto with Pepper, South Lake Tahoe, CA

I recommend Trail Dog Etiquette for your dog training needs. I had a great experience working with Sam to train my 1-year-old GSP. I was struggling with my pup to follow basic directions and walking/leash pulling. After 1 session with Sam, I started to see results in her walking and responsiveness. In less than 6-weeks, my pup can walk off-leash on voice command. Sam's approach to working with both the owner and dog on training is great. He is very flexible and tailors his approach to his clients and their dog's needs.

A man with a beard lying down next to a white dog with closed eyes, both appearing relaxed and close together.

Josh Phelps, with Cletus, South Lake Tahoe, CA

“Exceptional Dog Trainer - Sam Works Wonders!”

“Sam's dog training services are nothing short of exceptional. From day one, his professionalism and dedication shone through. Sam took the time to understand my concerns and tailored a training plan for my dog Cletus that yielded impressive results.

If you're seeking a dog trainer who achieves remarkable transformations, Sam at TDE is who to choose. His skill, passion, and dedication make him a top-notch choice. My experience has been incredibly positive, and I wholeheartedly recommend Sam for anyone in need of outstanding dog training.”

A black dog wearing a red harness sitting in the snow in a forest with a red cabin in the background.

Heather Thompson with Beau, South Lake Tahoe, CA

“Sam is great with dogs and very reliable. He will communicate effectively to make arrangements, and follow through on time as expected. He not only is able to walk and exercise your dog, but is great with teaching trail etiquette, as well as dog handling technique. He has a ski/snowboard instructor background, so he knows how to coach humans. Sam has been working with my lab, Beau, as well as mentoring me on how to execute commands. It’s making a difference in my ability to feel confident in my dog on-leash and off-leash.”

Two dogs, one yellow and one chocolate, sitting on a paved path in a nature setting with green trees, mountains with snow, and a blue sky in the background.

Debbie Sizemore with Walter & Thunder, South Lake Tahoe, CA

“Sam is a reliable and trustworthy person to train your dogs with. His knowledge of a dog’s behavior is extensive, and he knows all aspects of canine care. I recommend Sam to anyone who is looking for a responsible and kind person to care for your dog(s). My 2 labs are always happy to see him, and you can have confidence knowing that your loving pet is in good hands with him!”

Two dogs, one black and one brown, sitting on grass with mountain landscape and cloudy sky in background.

Kate Wright and Mary Beck with Poncho & Lefty, Tabernash, CO

“Sam was our dog trainer. He took our crazy dogs that would pull so hard on their leashes they would knock us down. Sam trained these 2 to sit, stay, get over, lay down. Sam was so gentle with our boys. Our dogs Poncho and Lefty would get so excited to see Sam and couldn't wait to leave the house on their walks with him. I can't say enough about Sam and changing our lives and the lives of our boys. Sincerely Kate Wright and Mary Beck.”

A black and white dog with a fluffy coat sitting outdoors on a dirt trail, surrounded by green plants and trees, with a forest sign in the background.

Suzanne Shuknecht with Rio, Tabernash, CO

“Sam trained our dog Rio, and from the first session it was clear that Sam has a gift for this work. Sam was a pleasure to work with, and we had a happier dog, a better relationship with our dog, and fun along the way. Would highly recommend Sam’s services.”

A large dog with a thick, multicolored coat standing on snow with mountains in the background.

Gayle McCoy with Bear, Grand Lake, CO

“1 year later Bear is doing so well. Off leash he is so good, especially with the “get over” command. We use everything you taught us!”

A playful yellow Labrador Retriever puppy lying on the floor, biting a black rotary telephone, with the phone's cord stretched out.

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A happy dog with a tongue hanging out, sitting in a field of grass and wildflowers, with mountains and trees in the background under a cloudy sky.
A happy white dog with its mouth open, standing on a dock by the water with mountains and a boat in the background, under a clear blue sky.