Good Dog Academy founder: Gila Kurtz, CPDT

Gila is committed to improving the lifelong relationship between dogs and their people. A Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT) and active Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) member, she focuses on the proven techniques of reward based training. Gila takes her profession seriously and remains current in training and behavior modification through continuing education conferences, seminars, and workshops held throughout the country. She firmly believes a positive approach to training yields effective long-term results and fosters a human-dog relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

A former teacher and business owner, Gila is skilled at identifying the needs of her clients and tailors her training to meet specific, individualized goals. In addition to being highly skilled at working with dogs, she has a natural gift for teaching people to communicate and work with their dogs. People find her approach fun, rewarding, and easy to follow. Gila has successfully helped hundreds of people with puppy rearing issues, resolved numerous problem behaviors, and has taught important dog manners skills. She has made countless dogs the envy of their neighborhood.

Before her recent relocation to California, Gila built successful training businesses in Florida and Washington State. She now resides in Seal Beach with her husband, daughter, and two dogs. In addition to her passion for working with dogs and their people, she loves spending time with her family, outdoor + fitness related activities, and reading.

She also volunteers at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.