Elayna brings a diverse background in animal training and behavior, developed through years of hands-on experience with both dogs and horses. Growing up involved in barrel racing, she gained an early foundation in training, timing, and communication through working with horses. Her experience in veterinary clinics further shaped her approach, where she saw firsthand the impact that behavior and handling have on both animals and their owners. These combined experiences led her to pursue dog training professionally.
She continued her education at Iowa State University, where she majored in Animal Science and studied behavior, wellness, and companion animal management. During this time, she participated in and later served as a teaching assistant for a hands-on dog training course, further developing her skills in both training and instruction. Over the past three years, she has trained dogs professionally in the Ames area, working with a wide range of breeds, temperaments, and training goals.
In addition to pet dog training, Elayna is actively involved in the sport dog world, training and handling her own dogs in scent work, barn hunt, Fast CAT, agility, and bite sports. She works with American Kennel Club programs including STAR Puppy, Canine Good Citizen (CGC), Community Canine (CGCA), and Urban CGC (CGCU), and is a certified evaluator. She remains committed to continued education and development, focusing on practical, results-driven training that builds clear communication and lasting relationships between dogs and their owners.
Family pet & Companion
Apollo is our wise, old-man German Shepherd and the first dog I truly trained. He grew up running alongside horses and learning cues from horseback, giving him incredible focus and awareness. Apollo enjoys long walks, swimming in the lake, and quietly observing the world he’s the calm, old man of our pack.
Training Assistant & All-Around Dog
Athena is my go-to girl for demos, assisting in training, and participating in sports. She’s a gentle, mothering ball of energy with confidence and sparkle. Athena excels at agility and barn hunt, loves swimming, and often helps calm anxious or reactive dogs. She’s also a key part of teaching CGC classes, bringing patience, guidance, and fun to every class.
Specialty Training & Performance Dog
Nyx is our youngest and wildest full of sass, energy, and unstoppable drive. She thrives on challenges and loves working in agility, scent work, bite sports, and more. Nyx enjoys swimming with friends and tackling any activity thrown her way. Her enthusiasm and determination make her a natural star in the sport dog world, always pushing boundaries and keeping training sessions exciting.