Meet Sherry
Helping Dogs and Their People Understand Each Other Again
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My name is Sherry, and I’m the owner of Side By Side Dog Training.
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I started this work because I saw a common pattern, good dogs being misunderstood, overwhelmed, or labeled as “difficult,” when in reality they were struggling to communicate in a world that didn’t make sense to them. I also saw frustrated owners who loved their dogs deeply, but felt unsure, stressed, or even defeated by the behaviors they were dealing with.
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I knew there had to be a better way.
A Different Approach to Dog Training
At Side By Side Dog Training, I focus on more than obedience commands. I focus on communication, confidence, and relationship-building between dogs and their owners.
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My approach is designed to help you understand why your dog is behaving a certain way, not just how to stop it. Because once you understand the “why,” real and lasting change becomes possible.
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Whether I’m working with a new puppy, a rescue dog learning how to trust again, or a reactive dog struggling to stay calm in the world, my goal is always the same:
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To help both ends of the leash feel more connected, more confident, and more in control.
Specializing in Real-Life Behavior Challenges
I work primarily with dogs who are struggling in everyday situations, including:
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Leash reactivity (barking, lunging, overstimulation)
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Fearful or anxious behaviors
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Overexcited or impulsive behavior
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Puppy foundations and early development
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Dogs who struggle with focus or listening in distracting environments
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These aren’t “perfect obedience” cases—they are real-life dogs with real-life challenges, and they deserve training that reflects that.
My Philosophy
I believe training should fit into your life—not take it over.
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That means focusing on practical skills you can use on real walks, in real homes, and in real situations. My goal is not just to create good behavior in a training session, but to help you feel confident handling your dog anywhere life takes you.
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I also believe every dog learns differently. That’s why I tailor every training plan to the individual dog and family, rather than using a one-size-fits-all method.
Why This Matters to Me
Working with dogs has shown me something important: most behavior problems aren’t about “bad dogs.”
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They’re about confusion, lack of guidance, fear, or unmet needs.
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When we shift the way we see our dogs, from “problem to fix” to “partner to understand” everything changes.
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That’s the foundation of my work.
Serving Apache Junction and the East Valley
I proudly work with dog owners throughout Apache Junction and surrounding East Valley communities, helping families create calmer homes and more enjoyable walks.
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Whether you’re just starting with a new puppy or feeling overwhelmed by a long-standing behavior issue, you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Let’s Build Something Better Together
Training isn’t just about changing behavior—it’s about improving the relationship you have with your dog every single day.
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If you’re ready to feel more confident, more connected, and less stressed with your dog, I’m here to help guide you through that process step by step.
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Side By Side. One step at a time.