Your go-to source for all things dog training in Northern Nevada! We are a family-run business that helps people and their dogs from all over the west coast. We pride ourselves in our flexibility and adaptability with each dog we train. We use a large array of techniques in our training as we handle all kind of dogs from puppies needing a good foundation of skills set up, to nervous shelter dogs, and extreme behavioral issues. We have an array of options that we enjoy using but have found great success teaching the proper use of positive reinforcement, marker training, slip leads, prong collars and e-collars. We believe in a healthy balance of all humane training methods and recognize that all dogs perceive tools and interaction with humans differently, therefore each dog in training is approached in a unique manner that suits them best. The love of dogs drives everything we do in our business and it is our goal to arm as many dog owners as possible with the plethora of training knowledge we have to offer! Our philosophy at Stand Proud is to use structure, consistency, motivation and leadership to help dogs live happier and healthier lives. When a dog and owner communicate clearly and can depend on each other’s behavior, the possibilities are endless!
Meet Brandon!
Owner & Head Trainer
I began to find my own path in the dog world through rescue and rehabilitation, which started with countless volunteer hours at the Humane Society here in Reno, until I was finally offered a job in the dog area. I often would venture into the back row of kennels after completing my day's work. Most people were discouraged from hanging out in this area because this was where they kept all the dogs with significant behavioral issues. I found myself unsure of how to help these dogs, despite my short lifetime of experience and knowledge around them. Thus began my venture into rescue, rehabilitation, and training.
I find myself fitting the mold of a balanced trainer, but I try to avoid placing myself in any particular camp because I feel every dog is unique and I try to approach each training situation as such! My education surrounding dogs began at a very young age because my father housed, bred and showed Akitas. This led to a very early relationship with dogs that required my respect in order to work and live with them. I’ve attended several education seminars over the years, read countless books and studies, and have worked with over 1000 dogs on the west coast to hone my training program into what it is today. With that being said, I firmly believe that training requires our team to indefinitely educate ourselves and remain open minded about the best approach for each dog that we work with. On top of that, I have spent time in almost every area of dog care/handling including, grooming, daycare, medical care, fostering, shelter work and even hospice care for elderly dogs.
I am dedicated to improving the relationship with your dog and providing the tools necessary to establish and maintain the happiest and healthiest lifestyle possible with your best friend. I look forward to helping you through your training journey!
Meet Danielle and Elijah!
Owner & Director
Hi everyone! I am Danielle, Brandon’s wife. My roll in the business is to facilitate all the communication and scheduling with clients (with the help of my wonderful secretary, Debbie). Ever since I was a small girl, I have loved dogs! As I became an adult, everyone knew me as the crazy dog lady who would take in any dog that needed me, even if they were aggressive. While I’m not the dog whisperer that Brandon is, my love for these amazing creatures drives me every day. I will love your dog like my own and do everything I can to help them thrive not only while they are with us, but long after they have left. I have a Master’s Degree in Paralegal Studies and a lifetime of experience in customer service, and am thrilled to incorporate my own work experiences into the dog world to build a business with my husband that we love so much. Working with Brandon to help dogs and their owners live their best lives has truly been a dream come true!
What is a family-run business without the help of our 4 year old?! Elijah is already taking after his parents and loves dogs so much! He helps us take the dogs on walks, take cute pictures for social media, and helps with feeding! You may even have the pleasure of doing a private lesson with him!
Meet Austin!
Basic Obedience/Minor Behavior Modification Trainer
Hello everyone, my name is Austin Pearson. Throughout my whole life, animals, especially dogs, have had a huge influence on me. Whether it’s taking my two dogs swimming, or waking up excited to go to work, I have discovered my true passion in working with dogs. I love teaching people and seeing their smiles and feeling their happiness when they accomplish something with their dog they never thought possible. My goal is to ensure you and your furry one get to live your best lives together.
Stand Proud has offered me the best of both worlds; helping dogs and helping people. I get to teach you how to have the best possible relationship with your dog, and I get to help your dog communicate with you. My knowledge is continuing to grow every day, and I will do everything I can to find what works best for your lifestyle and your dog. I look forward to getting to work with anyone and everyone who is willing to learn and wants to grow their relationship with their dog!
Meet Ian!
Severe Behavior Modification Trainer
Hello! My name is Ian Cartlidge. I am Brandon’s brother and I began working for Stand Proud in September of 2021. Long before I started my career as a dog trainer, my life consisted of being a full-time athlete that played almost any sport you could think of. I enjoyed every sport I played, but football was, without a doubt, my true passion. Being the person that I am, I was very dedicated and focused on my narrow path of earning a scholarship to play football at the collegiate level. I accomplished my goal, but, after 12 years of dedicating my entire life to the game that I loved, I decided that it was time for a new challenge. I turned 18, I joined the workforce and worked many jobs in various different industries, but none were as fulfilling as my previous passion. I found myself filling roles that did not fit my strengths as a person and I realized that I was frustrated at the pure lack of leadership, accountability, and integrity that surrounded me in these places. I was yearning for a worthy role to pour my passion into again.
Then I joined Stand Proud…
From day one, working with these beautiful animals has been a life-changing experience for me. I learned, over time, that dogs crave a person with my temperament to lead and guide them through their lives. Learning the proper dynamic between dog and man, and teaching others of my learned experience, has given me a strong sense of purpose in my life and something new to pour my passion into. I find myself fitting the mold of a balanced dog trainer. Brandon has helped me to acquire the skills to train any breed, no matter the problems a client may be having. I am beyond grateful to have the opportunity that Brandon and Danielle have given me at Stand Proud.
Meet Abby!
Severe Behavior Modification Trainer
Welcome to the webpage! I’ve always had a huge love for all kinds of animals. When I was younger I’d bring home any animal I’d stumble across! Lizards, birds, snakes, it didn’t matter much to me! As a young teenager, I got my first dog and I truly fell in love. Obviously, I wanted to bring him along with me whenever I could! But my new pup needed manners in order to do so, thus my passion for training was sparked. 11 years later, my childhood dog is now thriving. He knows exactly what’s expected of him and gets to come to work with me. I’m living my dream, and my buddy gets to experience it with me! I couldn’t ask for anything more.
I’ve been working in the dog industry for 6 years now, but I truly found my home at Stand Proud. I believe every dog deserves to be understood and then guided to be the best version of itself. In the 6 years that I have been working with dogs, this is the first place where everybody truly loves and cares for all the babies as if they were their own! Working alongside the other trainers here has been beyond impressive and humbling. My knowledge of dog behavior and training is constantly expanding. I’m very grateful every day to be able to greet all the furry faces and pick their brains apart! I have to say my favorite part of the job is seeing how much the dogs improve and thrive during their time spent with us.
Meet Alanea!
Boarding & Daycare Manager
Hi! Let me tell you about myself! My name is Alanea Perry and I have been working at Stand Proud since July 2022. I can be a very shy person, except when it comes to dogs! I’ve always been an animal lover, ever since I was a little kid (especially dogs). I’ve grown up with many dogs and currently have three of my own. Growing up, all I wanted to do was work with dogs, and that dream finally came true! I have now been working in this industry for four years and I still love it! I am emotionally fulfilled working with dogs and being able to make a difference in their lives. I love working with all the different breeds that come to us and seeing all their unique personalities. My favorite part of working at Stand Proud is watching each dog’s progress and helping them open up. I love being able to spend one-on-one time with each dog and figure out what makes them the most comfortable and happy while staying with us. Stand Proud has taught me so much about dogs and more! I am happy I get to be apart of the journey.
Meet Debbie!
Secretary
Honestly, I had no background of dogs or dog training to land me the job of Danielle’s secretary! My background is in Education and later, Pharmacy Technician. But when I interviewed with Danielle I felt there was a fit. It started as a job, and became a family. I don’t get to engage with clients other than texting, but I have listened to the struggles and frustrations that you all feel! It is the best feeling when clients text me about their successes and satisfaction with our various programs. I’ve gotten to experience the tears of joy when a client picks up their dog after a LONG board and train program. I have seen the dedication that the staff exhibits to make each situation the best it can be for both owner and dog. As part of the Stand Proud Pack, I hope to help in making a positive life change for you and your furry friend.
Meet Andrew!
Kennel Attendant
Meet Autumn!
Kennel Attendant
Meet Hannah!
Kennel Attendant