Small Business Spotlight | The Proper Puppy 

At Sam's Cats and Dogs, we’re committed to strengthening the pet community in Everett and across Snohomish County. One way we do this is by spotlighting small businesses that make a difference for local pet parents. Our goal is to give families the information they need to make the best choices for their dogs, cats, and other furry family members. Discover The Proper Puppy’s dog training services, including their specialized puppy program designed to support your pup’s growth, or contact local trainer Lori Christenson for more information. 

Note: The following sections are written by guest contributors. The opinions expressed are their own and may not reflect the views of Sam's Cats and Dogs. 

The Proper Puppy Purpose

The Proper Puppy's purpose is to provide the space in the dog industry for an upscale training experience by combining components of the savvy sport dog market with real family home-life obedience. By using the proper training equipment and technique along with a custom plan, I create a fun, educational experience by making complex behaviors seem simple. With guidance, you will learn how to build your dog's confidence and understanding through step-by-step instructions and tips. Proper dog training is an essential investment that will ultimately provide you with a devoted companion that will become part of your family.   

Why the Proper Puppy was Created

The Proper Puppy was created to show pet owners that their dogs can succeed within obedience training no matter what breed or age. Dog training does not need to be the last resort to unwanted behavior, but quality time invested where families bond with their dogs through relationship-building exercises. Using different levels of motivation, we can engage your dog's natural desire to please, ultimately developing positive behaviors that create a well-rounded family companion. Whether you are bringing a puppy home, rescuing, or rebuilding rules with your older dog, communication is key. With guidance, you will learn how to engage with your dog in a healthy manner by building respect and trust through clear expectations, setting boundaries, and managing these behaviors with consistency.  

A Bit About Me

Lori Christenson Owner + Trainer

I was raised in the PNW and currently live in Lake Stevens with my family. Husband, two toddler boys, and a GSD. From an early age, I knew I had a passion for animals. As a young child, I dove into the equestrian world. I began coaching horse camps, sharing my love of horses, and teaching the importance of safety and horsemanship etiquette to those who were eager to learn. I continued my equestrian endeavors throughout my 20's. Professional dog training was a natural transition. Canines quickly became my focus and I invested time in understanding their language.  My training is inspired by using the same principles as world-renown Michael Ellis and the Leerburg team. My education has included spending thousands of hours of hands-on field experience that provided me with perspective and understanding of different breeds, drives, and temperaments. Additionally, I completed a 40-hour professional trainers Ecademy course with Robin Macfarlane. Specializing in Ecollar foundation training for all breeds. 

My style is approachable, balanced, unique, and polished. I specialize in building a bridge of communication between you and your dog. A lot of the training I do is handler-focused, making understanding the process and how to achieve behaviors within obedience a priority so that your dog can clearly understand. I use industry-leading scientific methods. My biggest strength is my commitment to continued education. I like to add new techniques and exercises to a variety of topics at each session. I pride myself on gaining as much insight into multiple training techniques as I can to have more "tools" in my "toolbox." Every dog is different so it is beneficial to individualize the training experience.  

My specialties include the study of pack structure, communication, the understanding of body language, the proper use of remote collar training, puppy enrichment and rearing, behavior modification, and basic-advanced obedience.