About The Trainer
I am Cat Schleicher (she/her), a certified dog trainer. I attended CATCH Canine Trainers Academy and completed their master course which means that both, my knowledge and my skills have been assessed prior to graduation. I have also completed my certification through the Association for Professional Dog Trainers (CPDT-KA).
I have been working with dogs professionally since 2015, when I began working in doggy daycares. Through the daycare setting, I was able to observe healthy and unhealthy dog communication. I learned about safe handling skills, how to read a dog’s silent language, and a lot about behavior.
In my time as a professional dog trainer I have helped many clients with a variety of challenges, from feral or abused dogs who need confidence building and cooperative care in order to trust, to reactive dogs with a history of multiple bite incidents or dog fights, to happy-go-lucky puppies who can’t stop mouthing and chewing. I find it extremely rewarding getting to witness both, dog and handler, making progress and getting closer to their goals.
Prior to dog training, I spent many years as a roller derby athlete. I love to play table top PRGs, video games, and of course, train my dogs.
I have 3 dogs of my own who have each taught me vastly different lessons throughout the years.
Smudge is a 13 year old chihuahua mix, who taught me about agency and consent for dogs with body handling sensitivities. He also taught me a lot about how to read body language, a he is a dog who can be quick to use his teeth.
Mojo Jojo is a 9 year old chihuahua/papillon mix who loves doing tricks, showing off his neutrality skills, and snuggling. He has swayed many of my clients, who were initially not keen on small dogs.
Prince Zuko is my 3 year old Doberman, who has Addison’s disease. Despite a very rough start, he has earned a number of trick titles, a CGC, and his Odor Recognition Test. He has helped me get a ton of experience with vet training. We train with a positive reinforcement based protection sport club, and also participate in NACSW scent work.
Continuing Education (CEUs)
I have a strong dedication to continuing education and staying up to date on the most current information. In 2025 I have attended both, the Modern Ethical Training conference and the Victoria Stillwell Behavior conference as well as having taken several courses through Fenzi Dog Sports.
