About Our Trainer
Lovebug Dog Training Club is owned and operated by Sarah Eisenberg, ABC-CDT. Sarah has had a deep love for dogs since childhood. At 10 years old, she would borrow dozens of books about different dog breeds from the local library and read them aloud to her parents until they finally caved and brought home her first dog. In 2014, Sarah adopted her pit bull, Frankie, from the South LA shelter, and he quickly became the center of her life. Her experience rehabilitating and reintegrating Frankie into the world was transformative and inspired her to pursue a career working with dogs full time.
Sarah received her certification through Animal Behavior College, where she worked under renowned trainer and mentor Russ Avison. Sarah is an ABC-CDT-certified dog trainer.
In addition to her training, Sarah volunteers at the Agoura Animal Care Center, one of seven LA County shelters, where she works with a group of dogs most in need of behavior modification and focused obedience training. Sarah also serves on the board of Healthcare for Homeless Animals, a nonprofit organization that provides funding for private and specialist veterinary care for all animals at the Agoura shelter.
Training Philosophy
At Lovebug, we focus on strengthening the bond between you and your dog using Positive Reinforcement Training, a proven, science-based approach.
We will teach your dog to perform the behaviors you want, when you want them, all while treating them with kindness and without resorting to fear or punishment. It is crucial for your dogs to have agency and choice; we just want them to know that making the right choices will always lead to the best rewards.
Our training tools will include clickers, high-value treats, toys, repetition, and patience. We do not use aversive methods, intimidation, or fear-based techniques (no electronic/shock collars, choke chains, or harsh corrections). We use the LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) protocol, which ensures a humane and collaborative approach to training.
Our training sessions are meant to foster a peaceful, safe, and worry-free relationship between you and your dog. There is no ultimate, one-size-fits-all goal, and there is no singular list of traits that make up the perfect dog - ’ll train toward whatever works best for you and your dog.
The Psychology Behind Positive Reinforcement:
Associative Learning: Every behavior has a consequence, and positive reinforcement is all about associating good behaviors with calm, focused energy and great rewards.
Stress Reduction: Positive reinforcement training is designed to keep dogs engaged and motivated without overwhelming them or scaring them. It is essential to keep your dog calm and below his stress threshold to create an environment where he can focus and learn effectively.
Building Trust: Consistent positive interactions with humans—especially with you—are essential for building a confident, secure dog who is ready to learn. We want to build a strong bond between you and your dog, helping him understand that focusing on you is the most rewarding choice.
Positive reinforcement training is a commitment, not a quick fix. It takes patience, preparation, and consistent repetition up front. However, doing the work to teach your dog to look to you for guidance in any situation is essential for an easier, less stressful, and happier life together in the long run.
There’s no universal goal or set of traits that define the perfect dog—our training sessions will focus on the specific goals you have for your dog.
Have you adopted a new dog?
Bringing any new dog into your home is an adjustment. Read our New Dog Adoption Guide and schedule a free consultation to learn more about how we can help your dog feel at home.