Life with Paws Dog Training
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Our Journey

When I got my first dog, Maze, I was so excited to take her everywhere with me and shower her with love. I enrolled her in puppy classes and socialized her, but despite working with multiple trainers, she continued to struggle with reactivity towards dogs and fearfulness of new people. Maze has had a profound impact on me, shaping the person and trainer I am today. Without her, I don’t know where I would be. During COVID-19, when we were all confined at home, I spent all day with her, and she even attended my high school Zoom classes with me. Like many other dogs during this time, her initial behavior issues may have been exacerbated by a lack of socialization due to the pandemic.

One trainer I worked with, in particular, explained things in a way that made sense, and I saw the most progress with her. Although she eventually pursued a different career, I later discovered she had a degree in Anthrozoology from Carroll College. Inspired by her, I started the program during my junior year of high school and later attended Carroll College, where I earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology and Anthrozoology. While in school, I worked under another trainer who taught me a great deal about dog behavior and training techniques. I am incredibly grateful for all the wonderful people who have helped me along the way.

Upon graduating, I decided to open my own business to help owners make their lives easier, set puppies up for success, and help dogs live happier lives. My services include basic obedience, crate training, potty training, addressing behavioral problems, and scent work. When I work with clients, I prioritize educating the owners alongside teaching the dogs the necessary skills, believing that a well-informed owner is crucial to a well-trained dog.

Meet our Professional Team

Life with Paws, we want what is best for both you and your pets!

Madelyn Showalter -CEO and Founder

B.A. in Anthrozoology and Psychology, Certified Professional Dog Trainer- Knowledge, Assessed (CPDT-KA), AKC CGC Evaluator, Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, 4 years of professional dog training experience.

Aaron Gerhart -Content Specialist and Trainer

B.F.A. in Creative Writing and B.A. in English, Linguistics, and Anthropology. Pursuing an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. CCPDT Candidate, Pet First Aid and CPR Certified, 2 years of professional dog training experience.

Our Values

Happiness Our goal is to create a positive training experience that enhances the well-being of both dogs and their families.

Continuous Learning
Our team is constantly learning more through online and in person education

Individualized Approach Every dog is unique, and we tailor our training methods to suit each dog’s personality and specific challenges

Education We educate dogs and owners to ensure they understand training methods and can maintain them at home.

Our Wonderful Training Assistants

Maze Showalter

Enjoys trick training, herding sheep, playing frisbee, and getting belly rubs

Lacey Showalter

Cadaver dog in training and loves to play tug-of-war. Our resident demo dog

Sophie Showalter

Professional treat tester, designated greeter, likes pets, and going on walks

Serving Helena and Missoula, MT

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