Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant in Los Angeles

Force-free training, enrichment, and science-based tools that help your dog feel safe, confident, and happy — so your whole family can relax and enjoy life together.

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Hi, I’m Ilya (he/him). I’m a compassionate positive reinforcement dog trainer and behavior consultant living in LA with my partner, our toddler, and our dog Trixie.

I graduated with Honors from Jean Donaldson’s renowned Academy for Dog Trainers, and before dog training I was an ecologist who studied zebra behavior for my PhD. I use only kind, effective, force-free methods — never fear or pain — because I’ve seen how cookies and compassion transform relationships with dogs.

I’m here to help you and your dog. I believe in you both, and I’ll meet you right where you are.

Work With Us

What Clients Are Looking For

You’re not alone if you’re hoping for a dog who:

Feels safe and relaxed around kids, new people, and everyday noises
Can stay home alone without panic or destruction
Walks politely on leash and greets visitors calmly
Builds real confidence instead of reactivity or resource guarding

Here’s what clients tell me they were looking for — and what we actually achieved together:

“Bob has gone from barking constantly to pausing and communicating with me when he sees a trigger. It’s made daily life and traveling with him so much easier, and has given both of us more confidence.”

“Willow, our 5-month-old German Shepherd female can’t wait for her training sessions. She is very responsive and soaking up the training.”

If you’re looking for practical, compassionate support with dog + kid dynamics, separation anxiety, puppy manners, or reactivity, you’re in the right place.

How I Help Families Like Yours

I specialize in the areas where parents and dogs need each other most:

Fear, Reactivity & Separation Anxiety
Gentle, proven protocols including creative problem-solving so you co-exist peacefully and can leave the house confidently.

Dog and Kids / Baby Prep
Safe, positive ways to build lifelong friendships between your child and dog.

Puppy & New Adoption
Foundation skills, manners, and confidence-building from day one.

Sessions are available in-person in Los Angeles or virtually anywhere.

Client Reviews

“Ilya is kind, patient, empathetic, and resourceful and has helped us tremendously with our anxious, reactive young dog, Bob. Bob has gone from barking constantly to pausing and communicating with me when he sees a trigger. It’s made daily life and traveling with him so much easier, and has given both of us more confidence.”

— Zsofi
“Our puppy is wonderful but we noticed some reactivity issues and fear of strangers and decided to get some outside help. Working with Ilya has been amazing and we could not recommend him enough. He gives great feedback and helps break things downs so they are easier for us and our pup to understand. My partner and I had a lot of fun during our training meetings which were done online, but Ilya is always very responsive even when not in a session. He loves what he does and it shows, literally a compassionate dude dog trainer!”
— Andrea
“Willow, our 5 month old German Shepherd female can’t wait for her training sessions. She is very responsive and soaking up the training. Fear free training is the only way to get the lovable companion you are looking for. Thank you, Ilya.”
— Ron
“Each session with our one-year-old mini golden doodle is filled with patience, grace, humor, and wise and discerning support from Ilya. He emphasizes the positives and helps us understand our dog better. It is more like an educational experience than traditional training. Ilya truly cares about the well-being of both dogs and owners. We highly recommend his services!”
- Josh

Ready to Make Life with Your Dog Easier?

Whether you’re preparing for a new baby, struggling with separation anxiety, or simply want a calmer, more joyful home, I’m here to help.

Book Your Initial Consult