Today we’d like to introduce you to Tess.
Hi Tess, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After graduating college in Michigan, I decided I was ready for a change and made the move to California’s Central Coast. It was one of those leaps that ended up changing the entire direction of my life. Once I got here, I realized I wanted to work with dogs, so I applied to local boarding and training facilities and started my career in the industry in 2017.
Over the next three and a half years, I had the opportunity to work with dogs of all kinds, focusing on obedience, behavior modification, and reactivity. Toward the end of my time there, I also began training service dogs, which gave me an even deeper appreciation for the impact good training can have on both dogs and their people.
Eventually, I decided to take the leap and start my own dog training business. Today, I specialize in balanced training methods, helping owners build clear communication, confidence, and stronger relationships with their dogs. Looking back, it’s funny how a move across the country led me to a career I never expected—but I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not! Like most small business owners, there have been plenty of challenges along the way. Starting a business means wearing a lot of different hats, and learning everything from marketing and bookkeeping to scheduling and client communication—all while continuing to grow as a trainer.
One of the biggest lessons has been learning to trust myself. Making the decision to leave a stable job and build something of my own was exciting, but also more than a little intimidating. There were plenty of moments where I questioned whether I was making the right choice.
Working with dogs also means every day is different. Every dog has its own personality, learning style, and challenges, so there’s never a one-size-fits-all approach. That keeps me constantly learning and adapting, which I actually love. Looking back, all of those challenges have helped me become a better trainer and a better business owner.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Nose To Tail Dog Training?
At its core, my business is about helping people enjoy life with their dogs. Whether it’s a puppy who’s still figuring out the world, a reactive dog who’s struggling with confidence, or an owner who feels like they’ve tried everything, my goal is always the same: to create better communication and a stronger relationship and bond between the two.
I specialize in balanced training because I believe dogs thrive when they have clear expectations, consistency, and fair guidance. Every dog is different, so I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I love getting to know each dog’s personality and building a training plan that works for both the dog and the family.
One thing people often tell me is that I make training feel less intimidating. I want owners to leave feeling empowered, not overwhelmed. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch someone go from feeling frustrated or discouraged to confidently handling their dog and actually enjoying the process.
I’m also really proud of the community that’s grown around my business. Most of my clients come through referrals, and there’s no bigger compliment than having someone trust me enough to recommend me to their friends and family. Those relationships mean everything to me.
More than anything, I want people to know that it’s never “too late” for a dog to learn. Every dog is capable of making progress, and sometimes all they need is someone who understands how to bring out their potential. Getting to be part of that journey—for both the dog and the owner—is easily my favorite part of what I do.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Honestly, I’m probably not the person who’s going to hand you a list of podcasts or say I read a new dog training book every month. A lot of what I’ve learned has come from years of hands-on experience, trial and error, and working with thousands of different dogs.
One of my biggest resources has always been the other professional trainers I’ve been fortunate to learn from. If I have a particularly unique case, I’m never afraid to reach out, ask questions, and hear someone else’s perspective. I think having a community of trainers who are willing to learn from each other is incredibly valuable.
More than anything, though, the dogs themselves are my greatest teachers. Every single dog is different, and every one has something new to teach me. That’s something I tell my clients all the time—I’m constantly learning. Dog training isn’t an industry where you “arrive” and suddenly know everything.
In fact, I’d probably be a little skeptical of anyone who claims they have all the answers. Working with both animals and people requires humility. Training is always evolving, and I’m always open to learning new techniques, refining my approach, and finding what works best for the individual dog in front of me. I think that’s one of the reasons I love this profession so much—there’s always something new to learn.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Nosetotaildograining.org
- Instagram: @nosetotaildogtraining
