We are currently in our second class (intermediate agility) with Shannon and plan on taking many more. She is a no fluff, get to the point type trainer. She will happily take time with you and your dog if needed but she gives us a packed hour of learning which we appreciate.

Truly Force Free Animal Training
Ventura, California
About Truly Force Free Animal Training
Truly Force Free Animal Training provides science-based, positive reinforcement training for dogs and their owners. Founded by Shannon Riley, BA-Zoology, Registered Veterinary Technician, CPDT-KA, Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, IAABC associate and Fear Free Professional. The program focuses on humane, effective methods to build strong relationships between pets and their families. Offering online and in-person courses, private coaching, and educational resources, Truly Force Free Animal Training helps pet owners train with kindness, patience, empathy, compassion and understanding. Learn more about creating a stress-free training experience today!
Training & services
Training goals
- Obedience training Customer-reported
- Puppy training
Behavior support
- Reactivity training
- Separation anxiety
How training happens
- Private training
Dog age
- Puppies
Assistance and working dogs
- Therapy dog training
Dog sports
- Agility
- Rally obedience
- Scent work
Training approach
- Force-free training
- Positive reinforcement
Other listed services
View 8 additional details
- Animal Behavior Consultants
- Animal Trainer
- Animal Training
- Behavior Course
- In-Person Classes
Program details
Held in Ventura, CA, these classes cover topics such as agility training, positive puppy kindergarten, nose work, rally, and freestyle, providing hands-on learning experiences for dogs and their owners.
- Online Courses
Program details
These include the Animal Trainer Academy for aspiring trainers, a Good Manners Course for teaching basic dog behaviors, and a Reactive Dog Rehabilitation Program designed to assist owners in managing and improving their dogs' reactive behaviors.
- Podcasts and Quizzes
Program details
Resources such as podcasts and quizzes are provided to enhance knowledge and engagement in animal training and behavior.
- Webinars
Program details
Educational sessions are available on subjects like understanding canine body language, preventing separation anxiety, and principles of positive training, offering valuable insights into animal behavior and training techniques.
Confirm current programs and availability directly.
Business-stated qualifications
Qualifications stated by the business, not independently verified.
- Registered Veterinary Technician
- CPDT-KA
- Registered Veterinary Technician
- KPA CTP
Questions & answers
From GoogleWhat people have asked about this business.
How long will it take to train my dog?
Training timelines vary depending on the dog, the behavior being addressed, and consistency in practice. Some behaviors improve quickly, while others may take weeks or months. Regular sessions and reinforcement at home are essential for lasting results.
Community answer · Truly Force Free Animal Training · 2025-09-21
How do I stop my dog from barking and jumping on the door when someone knocks?
This behavior is often driven by excitement or anxiety. To address it, start by desensitizing your dog to the sound of knocking. Practice controlled knocking sessions and reward your dog for remaining calm. Teaching an alternative behavior, such as going to a designated spot when the doorbell rings, can also be effective. Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to modifying this behavior.
Community answer · Truly Force Free Animal Training · 2025-09-21
Can you train an aggressive dog using positive reinforcement?
Yes, positive reinforcement can be very effective for aggressive dogs. By identifying triggers and reinforcing calm behavior, we can help dogs build new, more appropriate responses. It's important to work with a professional who understands canine body language and behavior.
Community answer · Truly Force Free Animal Training · 2025-09-21
Why does my dog become aggressive when we take things away from her?
This is known as resource guarding, a common behavior where a dog becomes defensive over possessions. It's important to approach this issue with care. Begin by teaching your dog the "drop it" or "leave it" command using positive reinforcement. Gradually practice trading items with your dog, offering something of equal or greater value in exchange. Avoid punishing your dog, as this can exacerbate the behavior. If the aggression persists, consulting a professional trainer experienced in positive reinforcement techniques is recommended.
Community answer · Truly Force Free Animal Training · 2025-09-21
Can I expect to make a living doing animal massage therapy in Ventura county?
Hi Albert, we would recommend contacting https://ojaischoolofmassage.com/ as they may have the best answer for you! We hope this helps and happy training!
Community answer · Truly Force Free Animal Training · 2021-09-21
Public community answers. Authors are not verified as business representatives; details may have changed.
Customer reviews
Google listingMentioned in reviews
- Agility classes 16
- Confidence building 9
- New skills 5
- Puppy class 5
- Basic obedience 2
- Customized training 2
All 10 topics
- Informative classes 2
- Knowledgeable instructor 2
- Reactive dog 2
- Separation anxiety training 2
Google review topics, not confirmed services.
Shannon has helped me with two very timid rescues that had suffered unimaginable trauma before coming my way. We did 1:1 training sessions for my more severe case and group training for my less severe one. My girls have also spent time in Shannon’s home for daycare/dog sitting. …Read full reviewClose full review
Shannon has helped me with two very timid rescues that had suffered unimaginable trauma before coming my way. We did 1:1 training sessions for my more severe case and group training for my less severe one. My girls have also spent time in Shannon’s home for daycare/dog sitting. I didn’t go to Shannon because I don’t know how to train my dogs. I’ve been able to create “good boys/girls” that are well adjusted and typically don’t embarrass me in public. I went to Shannon because I didn’t know what else to do to help my severely traumatized dog learn to trust in herself, me, and the world in general. Neither of us thought she would progress to where she has gotten to! To the outside world she now looks like a “normal” dog. Shannon has given me the skills to continue to do the work and I know if there’s another obstacle she will be there to help us through it. I’ve recommended everyone I know that has a dog to start listening to the podcast, reading the articles, and join a class at a minimum!
We love Ventura Pet Wellness/Truly Force Free Training! Every class we've done here is encouraging and positive. Shannon and the other instructors make it a joy to put in the work required for a well trained dog. My dog loves it too; all I have to say is "ready for Agility?" and …Read full reviewClose full review
We love Ventura Pet Wellness/Truly Force Free Training! Every class we've done here is encouraging and positive. Shannon and the other instructors make it a joy to put in the work required for a well trained dog. My dog loves it too; all I have to say is "ready for Agility?" and she runs down the stairs to get into the car. My dog is a smart, high-energy dog, and needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation. The person we got her from warned us ahead of time how much of a "handful" she was, and I would say "tornado" was probably a valid adjective to describe her. We still have a few crazy days here and there, but our communication is solid and I know what she needs to be a happy dog. When we're out and about, people often comment on what a good dog she is! Thanks to Shannon and her team- we wouldn't have been able to do it without you all. If you have a tornado dog too, please give Shannon and her team a try!
Shannon has a great class. Always upbeat and positive. Our pup loves going to class and mastering her Agility course.
Shannon is a very experienced and patient dog trainer. She has a sunny, fun personality and teaches agility skills by using clear explanations, positive reinforcement, and detailed instruction that she customizes as needed for each dog’s personality and abilities. I wanted to he…Read full reviewClose full review
Shannon is a very experienced and patient dog trainer. She has a sunny, fun personality and teaches agility skills by using clear explanations, positive reinforcement, and detailed instruction that she customizes as needed for each dog’s personality and abilities. I wanted to help build my new rescue dog’s confidence and our bond, these classes have been a wonderful experience! We are so lucky to have Shannon here locally in Ventura, I highly recommend her training programs!
Original customer experiences from the collected Google data. Ratings without comments follow written reviews.