If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Our philosophy is creating a training plan that works best for the individual dog. Not all dogs learn the same and because of that I pride myself on adapting to the needs and abilities of the dog. I have over 10 years of experience in teaching dogs everything from basic obedience and manners to socialization to diminishing human and/or dog aggression.
For the pet care side of the business, we provide dog walking and drop in services to help take care of pets while their owners are away.
Overview
Current Top Pro
Hired 142 times
Serves Indianapolis, IN
Background checked
1 employee
14 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Credit card, PayPal, and Venmo.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2025
2024
Services offered
Dog training package
Dog size
Extra Small (1 - 15 lbs)
Small (16 - 25 lbs)
Medium (26 - 40 lbs)
Large (41 - 70 lbs)
Dog training type
Private lessons
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for work quality, professionalism, and responsiveness.
Excellent 4.9
87 reviews
5
95%
4
1%
3
0%
2
0%
1
4%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Peggy G.
Jun 30, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
The change in our 5-year-old Ava's behavior in just two lessons has been remarkable. Sarah is an exceptional trainer. Looking forward to our future sessions in taking our out-of-control dog to a happy well behaved one.
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Leash pulling • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Katie S.
Aug 5, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Listened to our needs, designed a plan, and helped us to gain confidence in our dog again. Very knowledgable of dog behavior and products that work best in training. Highly recommend
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Extra large (70+ lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Beth M.
Apr 14, 2026
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sarah was a lifesaver when it came to working with Luna. She is so knowledgeable, and helped my anxious, reactive dog be a more calm, responsive pet. She helped me tremendously with some of Luna's behaviors that were impacting her well being and her ability to acclimate to our home. I highly recommend her!
Details: 1 - 2 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • House training • Barking • Digging • Biting • Chewing • Destructive behavior • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Christopher W.
3 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
We have only worked together once so far because of schedual but even the consultation was excellent and valuable to me and helped with the dogs
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Leash pulling • House training • Crate training • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
John H.
3 weeks ago
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Sarah was really wonderful tending to my 2 chihuahuas, 2 mini dachshunds, and 3 cats while we were away for 4 days for our daughter’s wedding.
Details: Dog • 4 pets • Taking pet outside • Giving food and water • Short visit (30 minutes) • Two times a day • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Pet Sitting
Credentials
Background Check
Sarah Sheperd
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My pricing is based on a variety of factors, but I pride myself on not overcharging my customers. The price is based on the number of dogs, type of training, and frequency requested. Customers who pay for a package up front receive a discount.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We communicate via phone, text, email, etc to set up the initial appointment and we will discuss the desired training outcomes. During the initial appointment, not a lot of hands on training is done but I learn about the dog or dogs, see their issues, and develop a training plan with the help of an owner.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have over a decade of hands on dog training. Additionally, I have also worked in shelters, for groomers, and for veterinary clinics which has given me a lot of exposure to every type of dog and all sorts of personalities.
