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
ONLINE TRAINING ONLY DURING JANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH.
In-person training all other months.
Fun With Fido has been offering behavior training, agility, obedience, Rally-O, and service dog training in my fully fenced backyard since 2001. I use scientifically proven methods that always take into account the emotions and individuality of each dog. Games make training fun!
I have been competing in dog agility since 2001. I love the sport and enjoy introducing others to its benefits. Dogs who play agility learn self-control along with basic and complex skills while working their bodies and brains. A tired dog is a good dog! I also enjoy the challenge of creating training plans for dogs with behavioral issues. I have a special interest in fearful and reactive dogs.
I am certified as a Pro Dog Trainer through absoluteDogs.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2021
2019
2018
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 responsiveness, professionalism, and work quality.
Exceptional 5.0
24 reviews
5
96%
4
4%
3
0%
2
0%
1
0%
Your trust means everything to us. Learn about our review guidelines.
Read reviews that mention:
Lindsay B.
Sep 14, 2020
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Our dog is extremely afraid of men and will growl/snarl when men are around and is incredibly frightened of new people in general. We received the dog under false pretenses and were told he was a perfect dog with no issues what so ever which we quickly realized was untrue as soon as money was exchanged and the dog got home. He is still a baby (barely 6 months) and we couldn’t give up on him without trying to we brought him to Melinda. We only went for one visit thus far because we are still unsure on if we are ready to commit to all that it takes to successfully get through to such a frightened dog financially, emotionally and how much time will need to be spent. If we do continue down this long road with him there is no doubt we would use Melinda as she has been a BLESSING. She is always giving us amazing advice, resources and above all support. She is definitely incredibly dedicated to what she does and has so much knowledge to share. She has been super flexible with us and our needs. I HIGHLY recommend her to anyone looking to train a pup.
Details: 6 - 12 months old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Barking • House training • At the pro’s location
Dog Training
Kimberley M.
Aug 6, 2020
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Melinda was wonderful. She was able to show me several steps in training my dogs in recall, relaxing, walking and the ever important house training. I would definitely recommend her.
Details: 0 - 6 months old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • House training • Crate training • Biting • Chewing • My home, venue, etc.
Dog Training
Jane R.
Oct 20, 2022
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Melinda understood the special challenges of my rescue dog who is shy and fearful. She had many small steps for me to practice with her.
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Medium (26 - 40 lbs) • Private lessons • General obedience training • Digging • At the pro’s location
Dog Training
Matthew S.
Oct 5, 2020
•
Hired on Thumbtack
Melinda is great. We went to see her to work on my dog's reactive behavior while on leash. She was able to expertly put together a training plan to address my dog's behavior and I am already starting to see results.
Details: 2 - 10 years old • Large (41 - 70 lbs) • Private lessons • Aggressive behavior modification • Biting • At the pro’s location
Fun With Fido Dog Training's reply
Thank you, Matthew.
Dog Training
Margaret S.
Sep 3, 2018
•
Hired on Thumbtack
My terriers and I have been working with Melinda for about a month. We all look forward to going to her place for fun training sessions in her yard. Melinda's sweet dog is helping my terriers overcome their reactivity to other dogs. We take everything at a slow, comfortable pace, and Melinda keeps a sharp eye on everything that is happening and gives constant feedback and praise (but only when it's earned!). Her insights into my dogs' behavior and reactions has been very helpful, and she's always happy to chat about all things canine, such as calming treats to try and games to build confidence. I would recommend Melinda to anyone who would like to build a stronger relationship with his or her dog. She seems to have a very good understanding of how dogs and people communicate.
Details: 2 dogs • 2 - 10 years old • Small (16 - 25 lbs) • Board and train programs at a facility • Aggressive behavior modification • Barking • I travel to the dog trainer
Dog Training
Credentials
Background Check
Melinda Schneider
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Price for an initial consult is $75. Further lessons are available at a rate of $65 for an hour of training. For some dogs, an hour is too long, so I also offer half an hour at $49. I offer a discount of $5/hour for rescue dogs. I sometimes will reduce my rates for special circumstances so if this applies, or you think it might, please ask. Price for a 6-week set of group classes is $159.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I start by asking the client why they are seeking training and what their goals are for their dog. Next, I assess the dog. Finally, I come up with a training plan which I explain to the client. Then we are ready to train! All training involves games that make learning fun for both owner and dog while achieving their goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I am a lifelong dog lover. I began obedience training with the family dogs while still a child. I loved the precision of competitive obedience and did not question the popular methods of the day. Years later, I began learning about positive reinforcement training and how damaging compulsion can be to the sensitive species we call our best friends. I now train with scientifically-valid methods that make training both fun and effective. I use force-free, hands-off techniques that encourage dogs to trust in their owner and to make good choices about their behavior.
I worked in an animal shelter caring for animals and matching animals to appropriate homes from 1994 to 1997. I loved that work and learned so much from my interactions with different breeds and the people who love them. I currently foster for Australian Cattle Dog Rescue Association.
I began training agility in 1998 and teaching, as well as competing, in 2001. I have now trained 8 dogs of my own, a variety of breeds and breed mixes, for agility. I have competed at the top levels under 8 different sanctioning organizations. I continue to attend training seminars and classes with some of the world's top trainers.
I am a certified Pro Dog Trainer with AbsoluteDogs.
