Meet Your Trainer
Hi, I’m Ilya (he/him). I’m a compassionate positive reinforcement dog trainer and behavior consultant living in Los Angeles with my partner, toddler, and our dog Trixie.
My Story
I graduated with Honors from Jean Donaldson’s renowned Academy for Dog Trainers, where I studied learning theory, dog behavior, and force-free training methods. Before dog training, I was an ecologist and earned my PhD studying zebra behavior in the wild — so I’ve always been fascinated by how animals learn, communicate, and thrive when they feel safe.
I help families just like yours. Whether your dog is fearful or reactive, struggling with separation anxiety, navigating life with kids or a new baby, or you’re bringing home a new puppy, I’m here to support both of you with kind, effective, science-based tools.
I use only force-free, positive reinforcement methods — never fear, pain, shock collars, prongs, or any kind of force. I’ve seen firsthand how cookies, compassion, and responding to your dogs cues can transform a relationship with a dog. (I switched to force-free training with our own dog Hobbes years ago, and it completely changed our lives for the better.)
My Promise to You
I believe in you and your dog. I know how stressful it can feel when things aren’t going smoothly at home, especially when you’re also juggling kids, work, and everything else life throws at you. That’s why I meet you exactly where you are, honor your goals, and celebrate every win along the way.
You’ll never be shamed or judged here. Whether you’re dealing with a dog who barks at strangers, struggles to be left alone, or needs help building confidence around children, I’m in your corner. My clients often tell me they finally feel understood and supported and that their dogs are happier and more relaxed than they’ve ever been.
I’m based in Los Angeles and work both in-person and virtually.
A Little About Life Outside Training
When I’m not working with clients and their dogs, you’ll probably find me at the beach with my family, watching animated movies, hiking, or chasing our toddler around the house. I bring the same patience, curiosity, and compassion I offer in training sessions to my own life with dogs and kids.
I’m here for you — whether you’re in LA or anywhere else. If you’re ready to make life with your dog easier and more joyful, I’d love to help.
Meet Trixie
Trixie is our rescue dog and the heart of our family. She came into our lives a few years ago, and she completely changed how I see dogs and training. When our toddler Wren arrived, Trixie showed us firsthand how much support dogs need when big life changes happen — especially around kids, noises, and new routines.
Watching Trixie navigate life with a busy toddler taught me so much about patience, reading subtle body language, and creating safety for dogs in real family homes. Her story is a big part of why I became a force-free trainer and why I’m especially passionate about helping families with dog + kid dynamics. She’s still teaching me every day, and I bring everything I’ve learned from her into every session with clients.