Brenda Belmonte, CPDT-KA
Our Story
Brenda Belmonte is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer with an extensive background in dogs and dog training. She began her dog training career over 30 years ago and quickly found her passion.
As a former veterinary practice manager, Brenda learned invaluable knowledge about working with both people and animals. She brings this knowledge to her students and believes that dog training and behavior modification should come from a holistic approach for both the client and the dog.
Brenda founded a successful dog training business in Illinois before relocating to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Her passion for working with dogs with behavior problems led her to working with reactivity and aggression cases.
As a certified professional dog trainer, Brenda strongly believes in the LIMA approach to behavior - Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive.
Brenda is the Health Chairman and a Board Member of the Pug Dog Club of America, a published author, and Pug Breeder of Merit with the American Kennel Club. In her spare time, Brenda competes in a variety of dog sports, including agility, K9 scent work, barn hunt, conformation, rally obedience, and dog parkour.
Education and Accountability is Important!
Dog training is an unregulated industry where anyone can be a “trainer.” Brenda enjoys sharing her extensive background with dogs, and her passion for education, with her clients. Brenda is a Professional Member of the Association for Professional Dog Trainers and the Pet Professional Guild, a Supporting Member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants, and a member of the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. Brenda has also successfully completed the “Fear Free Shelter Program.”
The S.A.F.E. Program For Dogs™
Brenda created the S.A.F.E. Program for Dogs for dogs who are exhibiting reactivity and aggression. This program provides support for owners and combines basic skills training with management and behavior modification. She created a Facebook Page dedicated to education and support for owners of dogs that exhibit reactivity and aggression.