Leanna Rizzo
Dog Trainer and Behavioral Consultant
Leanna Rizzo is a certified Positive Reinforcement Dog Trainer and Behavioral Consultant based in Lakewood, CA. She began working professionally with dogs in 2014 and transitioned into training in 2020, founding Trail Dog Training Co. in 2021.
Leanna earned her Advanced Dog Trainer Certification through Zoom Room in 2024 and became an AKC™ Approved Evaluator in 2025. She is currently pursuing her CPDT-KA certification and expanding her expertise as a Behavioral Consultant.
With two rescue dogs of her own—a spirited Chihuahua named Barbas and a sweet Pitsky named Dova—as well as a cat and a lizard, Leanna understands firsthand the importance of clear communication, patience, and compassion in training.
She is especially passionate about helping rehabilitate reactive and aggressive dogs, teaching them to navigate their big feelings and develop the confidence and skills needed to thrive in the world.
About the Business
Trail Dog Training Co. was founded in 2021 by Leanna Rizzo to help fill a crucial gap in Positive Reinforcement training across Southern California. Born from a vision of opening a full-service, Fear Free dog care facility, Trail Dog has taken key steps toward that goal—now offering Board and Train programs and structured training hikes in addition to private sessions and group classes.
Proudly woman-owned and operated Trail Dog Training Co. is a small business operating in Lakewood and surrounding areas, committed to delivering science-based, humane, and effective care to dogs—and fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive space for their humans.
We are honored to be a part of the Safe Spaces Alliance and the Shock-Free Coalition, and to hold Affiliate status with The Muzzle Movement, reflecting our dedication to ethical, compassionate practices for dogs and humans alike.
