With over 45 years of experience, I specialize in training both service dogs and family dogs. On the service side, I work with dogs that support people with balance challenges, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. For the family dog side, I help them with behavior issues such as leash walking, excessive barking, dog on dog issues, nervous or anxious behavior, and fear of infants, toddlers, and small children. I use my own well‑behaved pack to model healthy behavior and rehenforce what I'm training.
I truly love this work and the “ah-ha” moments when people learn how to better understand and help their own dogs. My reviews reflect my communication, training skills, and the value I bring to each client.
If you’d like calmer walks, clearer communication, and a stronger bond with your dog, please reach out and let’s chat about your goals.
Overview
Hired 390 times
Background checked
1 employee
36 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Google Pay, and Zelle.
Top Pro status
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2018
Services offered
Dog training package
Puppy training
General obedience training
Therapy or service dog training
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Board and train
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Very good 4.6
256 reviews
5
86%
4
5%
3
1%
2
0%
1
8%
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Read reviews that mention:
Ava F.
2 weeks ago
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Hired on Thumbtack
We had an amazing experience with Jennifer and cannot recommend her enough! Our dog, Tatum, spent two weeks with her for a board-and-train program, and the difference in her confidence and behavior is truly night and day.
Before training, Tatum was incredibly sweet but easily overwhelmed and very excitable. Walks were a struggle because she would pull almost the entire time, and once she became overstimulated, it was nearly impossible to get her to calm down and refocus without completely removing her from the situation. She would also jump on guests and often ignore commands when something more exciting had her attention.
When we picked Tatum up, Jennifer met us at Home Depot so she could show us everything they had worked on in a busy, distracting environment. We were honestly amazed watching Tatum confidently walk through the store, calmly passing people, shopping carts, and even animated Halloween decorations - things that absolutely would have sent her into a spiral before training. She stayed focused and listened to Jennifer throughout the entire store.
The improvements have carried over at home, too. Tatum is listening to our commands, walking nicely on leash without constantly pulling, and is so much better at regulating herself when she gets excited. Now, when she does become overstimulated, it usually only takes one or two corrections for her to calm down and refocus. Before training, that simply would not have happened.
Jennifer also went above and beyond by tailoring some of Tatum’s training to our family. She knew we are expecting a baby in January, so she specifically worked with Tatum on things like stopping and sitting at intersections to make future walks with a stroller easier and safer. That kind of thoughtfulness meant so much to us.
Jennifer was wonderful to work with throughout the entire process. She sent us regular photo and video updates while Tatum was with her, and she has continued to be responsive to texts and questions even after the program ended. It’s very clear that she genuinely cares about the dogs she works with and wants their owners to feel confident continuing the training at home.
We sent Jennifer a sweet but easily overwhelmed and overly excitable dog, and got back the same sweet Tatum - just much more confident, focused, and able to handle the world around her. We are so happy with the experience and would absolutely recommend Jennifer to anyone considering training for their dog.
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • House training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Frannecia H.
Jul 21, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
She was so nice and professional. She helped me understand a few things I was missing working with my 3-month-old Pomeranian. She is such a joyful woman, I loved her energy, and I truly enjoyed working with her. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for knowledgeable and supportive guidance.
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs) • Private lessons • Puppy training • House training • Crate training • My home, venue, etc.
Hand 2 Paw Dog Training's reply
Thank You, Frannecia!
It was lovely to meet you and your sweet pup. I am here when you need me again. Thank you for trusting me with your sweet pup.
Best,
Jennifer
Dog Training
Sam S.
Jun 27, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jennifer has been very lovely helping us with our dog's troublesome behavior. She is very sweet, responsive, and passionate.
Our young dog was having issues pulling when walking and being reactive around other dogs and children. She came to our home and talked with us about how to address these issues. We also had him spend a week with her to work on these skills intensively. Ever since he has been much less reactive and has been much more pleasant to walk.
Jennifer has also been great about reaching out for updates about our dog and has offered tons of advice.
We are very grateful for her help.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • My home, venue, etc.
Hand 2 Paw Dog Training's reply
Thank You, Sam!
Working with you all have been wonderful. Ziggy is such a sweet pup. I look so forward to continuing to work with you all again.
Best
Jennifer
Dog Training
Marie A.
May 30, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jennifer was amazing. She took my very large puppy who is crazy and turned him into a calm dog just wow. I would definitely recommend her 100% she will train until the dog is totally ready then she comes to your house. To make sure it all works out before she leaves.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Extra large (70+ lbs) • I'm flexible • General obedience training • Leash pulling • Crate training • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Hand 2 Paw Dog Training's reply
Hi Marie!
It was a supreme pleasure helping Cooper become more confident and balanced. What a fantastic dog he is. Keep up your great work and let me know if you need me again.
Dog Training
Thomas A.
Mar 20, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
She got to the heart of the issue and it worked. The best thing was she brought her own dog with her as my dog would charge other dogs. He stopped that almost immediately.
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Hand 2 Paw Dog Training's reply
Thomas,
I was so proud of you and your new sweet rescue pup. We accomplished so much and with the help of Raggedy Anne, your dog has gone on to have great success. As always, I am here if needed.
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Jennifer Sharpe
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My price is based on gaining a detailed summary of your dog, listening to your needs/training desires/dog behaviors. We discuss a plan moving forward & beginning training that day. Apts last 1.5-2 hours.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I go to their home. I learn everything about the dog and access the dog. We set up a training plan from there.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was trained old school. I was trained before shock collars were used on house dogs (they were invented for hunting dogs origionally) I was trained to analyze a dog quite quickly by be able to access their behavior & problem areas & then address & assist then for change. I was trained to gain the dogs brain & help them gain confidance.
