About Sarah Rutten: Dog Trainer and Behaviour Specialist
Helping dogs and their owners all around the world behave!
Your Dog Behaviour Expert and Force-Free Trainer
I’m Sarah Rutten, a world-renowned dog behaviour specialist, trainer, and self-confessed dog nerd. I’m an author, force-free advocate, and a true dog lover. From running a thriving canine behaviour business here in Australia to making guest appearances at international dog events, I’ve dedicated my life to helping dogs and their humans live better, happier lives together.
I’m all about staying in the know when it comes to helping dogs and their humans. To be honest, sometimes it’s really just the humans who need to know how to behave!
About Me
Hello, I'm Sarah!
I’ve loved animals ever since I can remember – and dogs in particular. It didn't matter if it was our beloved family pet, the neighbour’s canine companion, or my friend’s furry family member – I was the kid that was always found out the back hanging out with dog.
But it wasn’t just the dogs I loved, I loved their behaviour and understanding why they did what they did. So, after completing high school in Lismore, Northern NSW and spending a couple of years in the workforce, I decided to make the bold decision to follow my passion into canine behaviour and training.
In 2003 I officially took the plunge and enrolled in Delta Society Australia's Certificate IV in Dog Behavioural Training. It was a transformative experience, and on completion of my qualifications - I co-founded Paw Power Dog Training.
A Lifelong Passion for Dog Training
My passion for dogs runs deep. Over the years, I’ve pursued advanced qualifications in Canine Behaviour Science and Professional Dog Training, both locally and internationally, so I can stay at the forefront of dog behaviour knowledge.
Which means you can benefit from my expertise. Whether I’m working with rambunctious puppies, dogs with anxiety, reactive rescues, or anything in between, I strive to improve the connection between you and your four-legged buddy.
Trust me, nothing beats learning to “speak dog”—and I’m here to help you master it, so you can create stronger bonds and smoother communication with your pup.
Puppy Empowerment Program
When I’m not doing 1:1 in-person dog training (the fastest way to get results) or Zoom consults (yep, that’s a thing), I’m focused on my Puppy Empowerment Program. It’s a comprehensive, force-free online course specifically designed for puppies aged 8 weeks to 6 months.
Packed with practical lessons and expert insights, this unique and special program empowers both you and your puppy to navigate the world confidently.
And the best part? You can access it from anywhere—your living room, the park, or wherever your adventures take you!
Spreading the Word About Positive Dog Training
I’m also a keynote speaker and educator. My mission is to share the importance of positive, science-based dog training with audiences across Australia and around the globe.
I spend my time helping people understand how to raise well-behaved, happy dogs. It’s my calling, and I’m honoured to have built a career that lets me do just that.
I’ve Got You Covered
So whether you’re looking to help your pup through the tricky stages of development, manage behavioural issues, or simply strengthen the bond with your furry friend—I’ve got you covered!
Professional Dog Training Credentials
Just so you have confidence in me and my work, I’ve got the qualifications and credentials to back up my passion for training. From earning my Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science and Technology to becoming a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA), I’m dedicated to staying at the cutting edge of dog behaviour science. My certifications and professional affiliations reflect my commitment to using the most effective, humane training techniques.
And, just in case you would like to look at my expert dog training credentials, I've listed them below:
Sarah Rutten: Qualifications & Professional Affiliation
- Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science and Technology (Dip CBST)
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- Certificate IV in Dog Behavioural Training
- Certified MindDog Trainer & Assessor
- Member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (USA)
- Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (Australia)
- Member of the Association of Animal Behaviour Professionals
- Member of the Pet Professional Guild (Australia)
- Delta Accredited Instructor
So, whether you’re just starting out with a new puppy, tackling behaviour challenges, or aiming to strengthen the bond with your furry friend, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I can’t wait to help you and your dog build a happier, more harmonious life together. Let’s start this incredible journey today!
The nerd in me didn’t stop there! I went on to complete a certificate in Canine Myofunctional Therapy, specialising in Canine Massage, and then in 2009, embarked on a three-year Diploma in Canine Behaviour Science & Technology at the Companion Animal Sciences Institute in Canada.
In mid-2013, I decided to embark on a new chapter - leaving Paw Power Dog Training behind and opening The Canine Perspective. And in 2016, because I LOVE learning (can you tell?) I went on to complete the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainers Professional Course in 2016. And because my thirst for knowledge is far from over – I have plans for further study in the not too distant future.
During my 20 years as a canine behaviour specialist, alongside my long list of qualifications, I have made it a priority to attend yearly seminars, both in Australia and overseas – a commitment I have made to ensure that I provide my clients with the most up-to-date knowledge on behaviour and training. My aim is to assist owners in cultivating the dog they desire by enhancing the special bond between them and their furry companions. I strive to help owners understand the world from their dog's perspective while having loads of fun and learning together.
I am a proud Delta Accredited Instructor and hold memberships in esteemed organisations such as the Karen Pryor Academy, the Association of Animal Behaviour Professionals, the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (Australia), the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (USA), and the Pet Professional Guild. Furthermore, I am a qualified assessor for Greenhounds, a qualified assessor and trainer for MindDog Australia and serve as a Department of Local Government temperament assessor.
Currently, I reside between East Ballina and the Sunshine Coast with my partner, Chris, and our three adorable pugs: Kali, Doug & Harvey. Apart from helping people with their canine companions (and continuing my study, because let’s face it – I’m a behaviour nerd!), I enjoy indulging in my many hobbies - such as macrame, reading, walking, going to the gym, music, social media scrolling and spending quality time with friends—both human and canine!
My Achievements
2000
+
Dogs Trained
750
+
Happy Families
1
+
Awards
How I Can Help
Community
From
$0
- Advice
- Connection
- Monthly Informative Zoom Sessions
- Meet Ups
- Fun
Courses
From
$498
- Puppy Training (Beginner)
- Puppy Training (Advanced) *
- Really Reliable Recall *
- Lead Walking for Chronic Pullers *
- + more!
Training
3 Session packages from
$997
- Private 1:1 Training
- Personalised Behaviour Modification Plans
- Hands On Coaching & Feedback
- Puppy Training
- Behavioural Issues
Laurise Rose Latimer
Previous Client
We just completed the K9 Kindy course with Sarah, and we couldn't be happier with the results! She works wonders and our puppy just adores her. Not only was she excellent with our dog she also really helped my partner and I learn how to go about training in a fun way! THANKYOU!!!
Lia Verhelst
Previous Client
Meredith Yardley
Previous Client
Thank you so much Sarah! Your advice and support has made such a difference to our confidence caring for a rescue dog. Your insights and suggestions have made such a positive difference - you really know your stuff!
Robyne Trotter
Previous Client
Thank you Sarah for a wonderful five weeks of how to treat, train and cater for a young puppy-all done in a positive way. Your knowledge is outstanding. Both Angus and I are looking forward to the Kindy class.
Discover why dog owners from Byron Bay to the USA are raving about The Canine Perspective and experiencing remarkable transformations with their beloved pets.
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