tails and trails

Why Choose Tails and Trails?

Expert Training. Real Results. Lasting Relationships.

My name is Emily Wakeford, and I’m the lead dog trainer and founder of Tails and Trails. With over 10 years of experience in animal care and behavior—as a Surgical Veterinary Technician and Dog Training Apprentice—I created Tails and Trails to offer the kind of pet care and training that truly supports the long-term well-being of both dogs and their humans.

At Tails and Trails, we use a relationship-based balanced training approach. That means we focus on building trust, communication, and mutual respect between you and your dog—while also using a balanced, real-world method to guide behavior and set healthy boundaries. Our goal isn’t just to train dogs, but to strengthen the bond between you and your canine companion.

What Sets Us Apart:

• Relationship-Based, Balanced Training
  We combine the best of positive reinforcement with clear, fair corrections—always rooted in a strong, respectful relationship. This creates dogs that are not only obedient, but happy, confident, and connected to their people.

• Veterinary Background & Safety Focus
  With a strong foundation in veterinary medicine, I bring a deep understanding of animal health, behavior, and safety—ensuring your dog is cared for both physically and emotionally.

• Tailored to Each Dog
  Every dog is different, and so is every training plan. Whether you're dealing with puppy basics, reactivity, or anything in between, we build a custom approach that fits your dog’s personality and your goals.

• Whole-Dog Philosophy
  Training is just one part of a dog’s life. We prioritize your pet’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being—making sure they’re happy, healthy, and well-adjusted in every setting.

• Trust You Can Feel
  Our clients know their dogs are in experienced, compassionate hands. We treat every pet like our own—with patience, structure, and lots of love.

At Tails and Trails, we don’t just train dogs—we build relationships that last a lifetime. When your dog feels understood and supported, real transformation happens. Let’s create a calm, connected, and confident life together.