Makes Training A Good Experience for Dogs and The People Who Love Them – Eeee R.

"Elissa really understands dogs and the people who love them. She trained me to be better at managing my dogs and made it fun for all of us. She has plenty of patience, a sense of humor and never makes me feel ashamed when I don't understand or do something right."

Life Saver to Our Terrified Sheltie - Diana G

“Elissa is considered by many trainers in the SF Bay Area to be a specialist with "reactive" dogs. Traumatized in his first home placement, our Sheltie, Bug, came to live with my husband and me at age 11 months. Elissa helped us bond with him, lure him out of hiding, re-potty train him and de-sensitize him to noises and sudden movements and build his confidence. Still shy and cautious at times, Bug is a happy, comfortable member of the family. Before Elissa's guidance, I felt that we would be unable to keep Bug because he was so afraid and overwhelmed. I am appreciative of her work with us.”

Excellent personalized trainer! – Suzanne R.

"We have met with Elissa several times for different dogs. Our issues have ranged from fear reactivity from being attacked in a dog park to trying to figure out how to safely bring a new puppy into a home with 2 bossy dogs. Elissa was thoughtful, gave us very detailed written instructions and best of all - her advice worked! She followed up with us and was available for questions. She is a great resource!!!"

Excellent Dog Trainer with difficult dogs -  Steve O'Donnell

“I met Elissa in an agility class with both of us training dogs, and attending trials. A few years later I adopted a high-energy dog from a rescue with which I was having problems even getting training started. Jake acted like a pogo stick on leash, and would dive into my pockets or try to steal my treat bag.

Elissa basically taught me a number of tools to begin our training experience. She came to my home which kept the environment familiar for Jake. We worked obedience drills, and kept it fun for him. After a few months she helped teach us both some agility skills, including introduction to open weave poles and jumping basics.

After each session, Elissa prepared an email with a list of what we worked on, some comments on Jakes progress, and some homework items. Elissa was always available by phone or email when I had questions.

I fully recommend Elissa as my dog trainer of choice, and wish she was still here in Oakland.”

Elissa Cline Dog Training provides Positive, Intelligent training and coaching - Maria Giannell & Scott Maze

"Elissa has an amazing way with dogs, and with training their people too! She spends the time to understand each dog as an individual as well as a pack member, and she provides the humans with detailed information and instructions.

Elissa does not intimidate dogs into behaving and she does not shame or belittle owners for having made mistakes. Instead she provides a positive learning experience for owners and their dogs. We looked forward to each session and appreciated the confidence and skills she developed in us and our dogs.

I have recommended Elissa to friends with mixed success... That is, not everyone is willing to put in the time to work on the exercises with their dogs. Elissa does not possess a magic wand to instantly transform your dog into an obedience champion. What she does do, is empower dog owners to develop the skills to provide their dogs with the structure they need to excel.

Elissa tries to incorporate fun into the exercises as well. Years later, our dogs continue to insist on daily "fun and games" as we call training exercises. They are a great bonding tool as well as great mental exercise for the dogs. Plus, some games like recall games are good physical exercise for all of us too!

Elissa maintains an ongoing commitment to the dogs and people she works with and is always available to help via phone or email if she cannot be there in person.

We highly recommend Elissa to anyone who is interested in learning how to enhance the lives of their dogs.”

Thorough, skilled, caring and successful - Mindy P.

Elissa is a thorough, skilled and caring trainer. She listened to my concerns/needs. After meeting me and my dog, she developed a workable plan that met my rewards-based method preference.

I rescued an 11-month German Shorthaired Pointer who had a very high prey drive and absolutely no recall. My GSP is now a reliable trail and beach dog who responds to a code word and/or whistle. ("Come" no longer worked when we met Elissa.)

Elissa worked with us 4-5 times, but mostly she gave me the understanding, skills and followup exercises to work with my dog myself. She explained behavior theory behind the exercises, showed me how to properly carry them out. She followed each training session with detailed notes and other resources.

Success wasn't instant, but steady. With Elissa's help, I have a trustworthy companion whom I feel comfortable letting off leash.

Elissa Cline's dog training is excellent. - Jo F.

Four years ago, I thought I was going to have to re-home my rescue border collie.

I consulted and worked with several trainers and continued to have fear aggression problem with my dog.

Elissa trained me on how to read my dog's cues/ behaviors and set reasonable expectations. She provided me with the tools to have a happy household with my pup.

I gained more out of five sessions with Elissa than I had with a year of other trainers.

Elissa is fabulous! - Cathy L.

My 1 1/2 yr old English bulldog is very reactive while on the leash. He couldn't go to a "normal" training class with other dogs.

Elissa came into our lives & have made HEMI & me soooooo much better. She gave me tips & practiced with us, so that we can now take him in public places.

We are forever grateful. If you need help with your dog, definitely contact her