Our Training Philosophy
We know your dog is a part of your family, and we are here to help you make that special bond even stronger and more rewarding. All of our training packages are customized based on your training goals and your dog’s needs. We utilize a wide array of training tools and techniques because we believe that there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all way to train dogs or people. We service all of Oahu. Hawaii Dog Training Services is proud to be a woman veteran-owned business and a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals. Visit the IACP website to learn more.
We also believe in the mind-body connection. What we feed our dogs can have a direct impact on their behavior, and fresher is always better. That is why we’ve partnered with Raw Feeding Hawaii, Oahu’s exclusive retailer of Lava Paws all natural, locally sourced raw food, treats, and spa products.
Deanna Nieves, Owner/Trainer
Deanna adopted her dogs Jake and Chloe in 2010 and set herself to learn all she could to be the best dog owner she could, studying dog psychology, behavior, and obedience training. She realized she not only loved working with dogs, but had a knack for dog handling, and began helping friends, family, and neighbors with their dog-related issues. In 2012 Deanna left active duty military service and moved to Oahu, and continued working with dogs in her free time until 2016 when she left her full-time job to pursue her full-time passion of training dogs and empowering their owners…and she’s never looked back!
Deanna is a firm believer that there is a calm and assertive leader in all of us, and sometimes it takes our dogs to help us realize it. It’s her goal to teach you to harness the leader inside, in order to positively impact your relationship with your dog. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner, looking for basic obedience, or have a dog with serious behavior issues, we can help!
Mari LeFebvre, Training Assistant
Born and raised on Oahu, Mari has always had a love for animals, with a special passion and affinity for dogs. Researching and learning about all things canine: behavior, training, psychology, and nutrition — to name a few — starting from childhood and continuing presently, has always been a constant in her life. Over the years Mari has had numerous animals or found ways to volunteer and work with animals in some capacity. Mari strongly believes that dogs are a reflection of people, and that there is so much to learn about being human from our canine companions.
Nicole Otani, Administrative Assistant
Nicole is an administration professional with a love for dogs. She started as a training client and quickly became a friend of the business and its owner. Nicole manages much of the behind-the-scenes administration that allows our clients to feel supported, and our trainers to focus on the work of helping owners and their dogs.