Training pups and proud pup-parents since 1994

Science-based training for happier dogs & stronger bonds. At SmartyPup!, we believe in the power of science and positive reinforcement to create lasting behavior change and build stronger relationships between you and your dog. Our training methods are rooted in modern animal behavior science, focusing on understanding dogs as they are and fostering a nurturing environment. With SmartyPup!, you'll stop stressing over your dog’s behavior and start feeling confident in your ability to lead them through any situation.

Happy Jack Russell dog in the air

Meet Fawn, the heart of SmartyPup!

Fawn is a third-generation San Franciscan who brings a wealth of experience and a profound love for the human-dog bond to SmartyPup! With 15 years at Sirius® Puppy Training and a decade at the SFSPCA Dog Trainers Academy, Fawn has honed her skills and developed innovative training methods grounded in a deep understanding of dog and people behavior. In October 2008, she launched SmartyPup! with the mission of sharing her expertise, empowering pup-parents, and strengthening the connections between dogs and their human companions.

The SmartyPup! mission

Our mission is to deepen the bond between you and your pup. Through expert guidance and compassionate, positive-reinforcement training, our goal is to ensure you thoroughly enjoy the training experience as you build a strong, positive, and lasting bond with your puppy. Our training sessions are safe, educational, and designed to involve the entire family.

Meet Fawn, the heart of SmartyPup!

Fawn is a third-generation San Franciscan who brings a wealth of experience and a profound love for the human-dog bond to SmartyPup! With 15 years at Sirius® Puppy Training and a decade at the SFSPCA Dog Trainers Academy, Fawn has honed her skills and developed innovative training methods grounded in a deep understanding of dog behavior. In October 2008, she launched SmartyPup! with the mission of sharing her expertise, empowering pup-parents, and strengthening the connections between dogs and their human companions.

The SmartyPup! mission

Our mission is to deepen the bond between you and your pup. Through expert guidance and compassionate, positive-reinforcement training, our goal is to ensure you thoroughly enjoy the training experience as you build a strong, positive, and lasting bond with your puppy. Our training sessions are safe, educational, and designed to involve the entire family.

A few bark-worthy numbers

1,000+

Five-star reviews

75,000+

Puppy grads

Endless

Returning pup-parents

What the DOG experts say

No doubt about it — Fawn Pierre, lead trainer at SmartyPup!, has a unique ability to help us to understand our dogs. As a veterinarian, I attended one of her classes to learn about a different way to train my new puppy and her methods and explanations on "the dogs mind" were a tremendous insight. Almost any trainer can train your dog, but it takes a very special person to take you beyond that and help you to understand your dog so you can take what you have learned in puppy class and use it for those many years of your dog's life. Her classes are a wonderful way to jump start a fun-filled, communicative relationship with your dog.”

In a letter to San Francisco Vets: “Without a doubt, Fawn is the most experienced and the most talented puppy trainer in San Francisco. She is a natural teacher — utterly conscientious, creative, fast-paced, funny, and extremely engaging … rest assured that [your puppies] are going to receive the very best education.”

Dr. Ian Dunbar Ted Talk

“As a veterinarian, I have dispensed much advice about puppy training, but as the proud owner of a new pup I now go to Fawn Pierre for advice! I have learned so much new information on training my pup that my advice to owners has changed. What I have learned from Fawn during our puppy classes and puppy socials absolutely works. Fawn understands dogs, especially pups. And my pup loves her and her classes. Fawn understands people too and is wonderful to work with. My pup and I will be taking classes as long as we can! I am recommending Fawn and SmartyPup! to all my clients.”

Our big, hairy promise

At SmartyPup!, our commitment shines in every interaction and training session.

Love & Family

Our trainers passionately support both dogs and their families, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is involved.

Expert Training

Our trainers continuously enhance their skills through top-tier education and specialized in-house programs led by Fawn Pierre.

Community

We are a close-knit network of dog-loving trainers, veterinarians, and owners in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma.

Joy & Empathy

Every session is a joyful celebration of your puppy’s unique journey towards becoming a well-mannered companion.

Meet your pup’s new training pals

Class Instructor
Manager
Head Trainer

Training Assistant
SmartyParty Event Planner CGC Evaluator Westminster Show Dog Owner

Class Instructor
Puppy Trainer
Dog Walker
Private Instruction

Lead Day Camp Puppy Trainer
Lead Class Assistant
Puppy First Responder
Wicked Smart

Man holding a puppy in front of his face.

Novice Puppy Trainer
Tattoo Artist
Former Vet Tech

A littel girl with a smail oner her face hugging a jack russell terrier puppy

Novice Puppy Trainer

Day Camp Assistant
Day Camp Assistant
Novice Puppy Trainer

man holding a pug puppy in front of his face

Interested in becoming a trainer or joining the team?

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