The Divine Dog
Austin
Our Team
At The Divine Dog Austin, we serve families throughout the greater Austin area with science-based dog training rooted in positive reinforcement, clarity, and respect for each dog’s emotional wellbeing. Our work is grounded in force-free, fear-free methods that help dogs learn with confidence while strengthening the bond they share with their families.
We work with clients across Austin and the surrounding communities, including West Lake Hills, Lakeway, Bee Cave, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, and Dripping Springs. Whether you are in the heart of Austin or in one of its surrounding neighborhoods, our goal is to bring refined, results-driven training directly into your everyday environment.
Austin is a city known for its creativity, outdoor lifestyle, and deep sense of community, and our training reflects that. From walks along Lady Bird Lake to time spent at Zilker Park, the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and the surrounding neighborhoods, we help dogs develop reliable, real-world behavior that fits naturally into daily life.
Our team is made up of kind, grounded professionals who care deeply about the dogs and families they work with. Training with us is designed to feel clear, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable.
Jesse Sage
Director of Training
Jesse Sage serves as Director of Training for The Divine Dog Austin, guiding the philosophy, structure, and standards behind every program. As a professional member of the Pet Professional Guild and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, Jesse is committed to humane, science-based training built entirely on positive reinforcement.His leadership reflects a belief that great training is not just about behavior, but about connection, awareness, and helping dogs and their humans move through life together with clarity and ease. Jesse brings a grounded and present approach to his work, helping families create relationships with their dogs that feel natural, respectful, and deeply aligned.
Austin’s lifestyle is centered around connection to nature, creativity, and community, and Jesse fully embodies that spirit. When he is not working with clients, you will often find him walking the trails around Lady Bird Lake, hiking through the Barton Creek Greenbelt, spending time at Zilker Park, or exploring the energy of South Congress. Whether it is enjoying live music, connecting with the local community, or simply being outdoors, Jesse embraces everything that makes Austin such a unique and inspiring place to live and train dogs.
Emily Carter
Head of Behavioral Programs
Emily leads behavioral programs throughout Austin, helping dogs work through reactivity, anxiety, and overstimulation using structured, reward-based training methods.Her work focuses on building confidence and helping dogs feel calm and capable in a wide range of environments.
Outside of training, Emily enjoys early mornings at Zilker Park, hiking the Barton Creek Greenbelt, and enjoying Austin’s vibrant outdoor culture.
Javier Morales
Board and Train Program Supervisor
Javier oversees the Austin board and train program, creating a consistent and supportive environment where dogs develop reliable skills through positive reinforcement and clear guidance.His calm, steady approach allows dogs to settle into training and make meaningful progress.
Outside of training, Javier enjoys exploring Austin’s food truck scene, spending time near Lady Bird Lake, and being part of the city’s lively community.
Ryan Mitchell
Senior Dog Trainer
Ryan works with families across Austin, from West Lake Hills to Round Rock and Cedar Park, helping dogs build strong foundations in obedience, leash skills, and everyday behavior.His training style emphasizes clarity, repetition, and helping dogs understand what leads to success.
In his free time, Ryan enjoys paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, walking through downtown Austin, and attending live music events.
Priya Shah
Puppy Development Specialist
Priya focuses on early puppy development, helping Austin families guide their dogs through the most important stages of learning. Her work emphasizes confidence building, socialization, and establishing strong behavioral foundations.She is passionate about helping puppies grow into calm, well-adjusted companions.
Outside of training, Priya enjoys visiting local farmers markets, spending time at Zilker Park, and exploring Austin’s diverse neighborhoods.
Caleb Turner
Behavior Support Trainer
Caleb supports the behavioral team by helping implement personalized training plans that allow dogs to succeed in everyday life.His approach is steady, clear, and focused on building trust and consistency.
Outside of training, Caleb enjoys hiking local trails, spending time outdoors, and exploring the natural beauty around Austin.
Sofia Ramirez
Client Communications Coordinator
Sofia ensures that every client experience with The Divine Dog Austin is smooth, organized, and welcoming from the very beginning. She coordinates communication, scheduling, and program flow so families feel supported at every step.She takes pride in helping Austin clients feel confident and at ease as they begin their training journey.
Outside of her role, Sofia enjoys exploring South Congress, visiting local coffee shops, and spending time in the neighborhoods that make Austin unique.
Our Commitment
The Divine Dog Austin is dedicated to providing science-based dog training rooted in positive reinforcement, force-free learning, and humane practices. Our mission is to help dogs and their families build strong, lasting relationships while fully enjoying life across the greater Austin area.
Are you ready to take the next step?
We’re always ready to talk about how we can help. Your free, no-obligation consultation is just a click (or two) away.
MORE THAN OBEDIENCE
What stood out most was the calm presence during sessions. There was no pressure and no judgment, just clear guidance. We weren’t just shown what to do, we were taught why it mattered. That understanding changed how we interact with our dog every day. The results have been steady and lasting.
A PEACEFUL START
We started puppy training feeling completely overwhelmed. Potty accidents, biting, zoomies late at night — we were questioning whether we were doing anything right. What helped most was not just teaching commands, but learning how to create calm routines and clear structure. Once we adjusted sleep, feeding, and consistency, everything improved. Our puppy now settles in the evenings and responds reliably to basic cues. Our home feels peaceful again.
FROM OVERWHELMED TO CALM
We reached out when our 8 month old Goldendoodle was pulling so hard on walks that it stopped being enjoyable to take him out. He was also jumping on every guest who walked through the door. Within a few sessions, we understood how our energy and structure were contributing to the chaos. The leash work alone changed everything. Walks are calm now, and guests can come inside without being tackled. The shift felt gradual but solid, and it has lasted.
REACTIVITY AND RESTORED CONFIDENCE
“Our dog developed reactivity toward other dogs after a negative experience at a park. We were crossing streets and avoiding certain times of day just to prevent outbursts. The behavior modification plan was structured and realistic. We learned how to recognize early stress signals instead of waiting for a reaction. After several weeks of consistent work, the reactions decreased significantly. We still stay aware, but we feel back in control and our dog seems far more confident.