Dog's Day Out

Business Details

26 Years

experience

Your Trusted Dog Training & Daycare Partner in Seattle

At Dog's Day Out, we are dedicated to providing science-based, positive reinforcement dog training and comprehensive daycare services that prioritize the well-being of every canine we serve. Our approach is rooted in fear-free methods, utilizing gentle techniques that foster understanding between dogs and their humans without the use of aversive tools. With over two decades of experience, our team of certified professionals brings specialized expertise in behavior modification, canine communication, and enrichment programs tailored to meet individual needs.

We emphasize education through workshops, webinars, and hands-on training, empowering pet owners with practical skills to enhance their dogs' lives. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through our evidence-based practices, continuous professional development, and active contributions to industry advancements through publications and conference participation.

Services

Basic Training Private Lessons Reactive ReDo K9 Nosework Daycare Services Puppy Socialization Behavior Consultations Canine Good Citizen Enrichment Programs Webinars & Workshops

Details

Year established: 2000

Highlights and features

Certified trainers with 25+ years of combined veterinary and behavior expertise
Fear-free training methods avoiding aversive tools like shock collars
Customized behavior modification programs for reactive and fearful dogs
Comprehensive educational resources including webinars and workshops
Specialized daycare with structured socialization and enrichment activities

Associations and certifications

CPDT-KA
Fear Free Certified Professional
AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator

Website

Update Listing

Services

Basic Training

Foundational training program teaching essential commands and manners. Focuses on building communication between dogs and owners through positive reinforcement techniques. Ideal for puppies and adult dogs needing core behavior development.

Private Lessons

Customized training sessions addressing specific behavioral challenges. Tailored to individual needs with personalized guidance for complex issues like separation anxiety and interdog dynamics in home environments.

Reactive ReDo

Specialized program for fearful and reactive dogs using systematic desensitization techniques. Combines virtual learning with practical application to improve leash reactivity and environmental sensitivities through structured exposure.

K9 Nosework

Interactive activity developing dogs' natural scent detection abilities. Builds confidence and mental stimulation through target odor recognition training that mimics professional detection dog tasks in a fun format.

Daycare Services

Supervised play environment promoting healthy canine interaction. Includes structured enrichment activities and small-dog specific programs that balance physical exercise with mental engagement in secure facilities.

People

Danette Johnston

Owner & Lead Trainer

Certified Professional Dog Trainer with 25+ years experience, former veterinary technician, and Fear Free Certified Professional. Specializes in behavior modification and shelter dog programs.

Cynthia Howell

Training Instructor

Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Family Dog Mediator with 15+ years in canine behavior. Focuses on puppy development and teen dog socialization programs.

Keiko Swanberg

Fun-Gility Instructor

Certified Control Unleashed Instructor and AKC evaluator with expertise in agility training. Brings corporate experience to dog behavior modification techniques.

Questions

What training methods does Dog's Day Out use?

We use science-based, positive reinforcement methods without aversive tools like shock collars, focusing on fear-free techniques that build trust between dogs and owners.

Do you offer daycare for small dogs?

Yes, we provide specialized daycare services with separate playgroups for small dogs under 25 pounds at our Burien location.

Are your trainers certified professionals?

All our trainers hold industry-recognized certifications including CPDT-KA, Fear Free, and Family Dog Mediator designations.

Can I attend classes with my reactive dog?

Yes, our Reactive ReDo program specifically addresses leash reactivity and fear-based behaviors through structured group classes and private consultations.

What is your cancellation policy for classes?

We require 10-14 days notice for cancellations to receive full refunds, with a $25 service fee applied to all refunds processed after registration.

Reviews (6)

Write a Review

Marc Prindle

Jan 16, 2022 Report

Love this place. We got basic training here, and our dog has never had a bad day here in over six months, twice a week. Great job curating the dogs in each session to get a good mix of friendly beasts.

Theresa Perkins

Nov 12, 2021 Report

Enrolled my reactive dog in a training class here - the instructor was very helpful and communicative. My only suggestion is that the reservation/class reminder system could be better.

Annie Pennino

Sep 21, 2021 Report

Danette is amazing; she gives practical, science-based guidance. We went to her for reactive training. Highly recommend and grateful.

Laurel Kokaska

Jul 09, 2021 Report

We enrolled our 3 yo dog in Danette's Reactive Rehab and have been very appreciative of the practice it affords her (in a controlled environment) with both people and dogs. Danette has been patient and thoughtful throughout all of the lessons, and has always encouraged us to work at our dog's pace. With a reactive dog there is no "quick fix" so it's wonderful to find someone who you know will support you through the process (and delight in your achievements, no matter how small).

Holly Williams

May 22, 2021 Report

We just completed a six-week reactive dog training course with Danette. I'm so glad we signed up! Danette is an incredible teacher for both dogs and their humans. My dog was always eager to go to class, and the improvements she made over the past month and a half surpass all our previous training efforts. We can't wait to go to drop-in days and future classes! I was hesitant to join any class during the COVID-19 pandemic, but social distancing, masks, and hand sanitizer were all handled so well during this outdoor course that I never felt at risk during our lessons.

I only regret not taking this course even earlier and that I couldn't give Danette a hug on graduation day for the enormous improvement she's made in our lives! Thank you, Danette! - Holly, Will, and Ladybird

Chelsea Zarnowski

Jan 25, 2021 Report

Great people and worked with us through training a puppy during Covid times. Puppy play class always wore our pup out and when she was old enough to do training the positive reinforcement instruction was great. It may have been Covid and the adjustments, but some of the class was a little awkward. There were some times I felt there was talking for too long where I couldn't pay attention and work with my crazy puppy. Overall I would recommend them and Danette is very responsive and helpful.