Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Yokley.
Hi Audrey, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story isn’t the typical “I grew up knowing I’d work with dogs” kind of path. I actually came from the medical field and the restaurant industry. Those jobs taught me patience, people skills, and how to stay calm in chaos — all things that ended up helping me way more than I ever expected.
Even though I loved dogs, I didn’t see it as a career at first. What I did know is that I wanted something more fulfilling. So I decided to take the leap and get certified in dog training before I ever considered making it my full-time work. Once I got certified and started getting hands-on experience, everything fell into place. I realized I absolutely loved helping dogs and their people communicate better.
From there, I continued stacking education, working with all kinds of dogs — anxious rescues, reactive dogs, puppies who think the world is their playground, and seniors who need a softer touch. Every dog has taught me something new and helped shape the calm, practical, real-world approach I use today.
My business has grown mostly through word of mouth, which I’m incredibly grateful for. Now I get to help families feel more confident, build routines that actually work, and create homes that feel calmer for everyone — dogs included. It wasn’t a straight path getting here, but it’s definitely the right one for me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road. I actually started building my in-person business right in the middle of COVID, which was probably the most chaotic time to launch something that requires… well, people. Trying to help dogs and their owners while everyone was distancing was tough. There were cancellations, last-minute changes, and a lot of figuring things out as I went.
On top of that, I was learning how to run a business at the same time — marketing, scheduling, setting boundaries, building confidence, all of it. It felt like a lot some days, but every challenge ended up teaching me something and pushed me to grow.
Looking back, those early struggles really shaped how I work now: flexible, realistic, and always focused on supporting both the dog and the humans behind them.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My business is positive-reinforcement based, and I’m really proud of the variety of training options we offer for dogs at every stage. I run several group classes — Puppy Class, Basic Obedience, Loose Leash Walking, Advanced, and more — all designed to help dogs build real-life skills in a supportive, fun environment.
I’ve also recently brought on an amazing employee, Molly, who now helps with in-home training and home drop-ins, which has allowed us to support even more families in a really personalized way.
Along with being a Certified Dog Trainer through Animal Behavior College, I’m also a Certified Service Dog Trainer, I offer AKC testing, I host a monthly walking club, and I teach a Dog CPR and First Aid certification class with another trainer friend. I love being able to offer such a wide range of services because every dog and every family needs something a little different.
What really sets my business apart is the blend of education, real-life experience, and the level of support clients get. My focus isn’t just on teaching commands — it’s on helping people truly understand their dogs, build confidence, and create calmer homes. I take a very down-to-earth, practical approach that meets dogs where they’re at and makes training doable for busy families.
Brand-wise, I’m proud that everything we do centers around kindness, communication, and making life better for both ends of the leash. I want readers to know that no matter your dog’s age, behavior, or past, there’s always a way forward — and I’m here to help you find it.
How do you think about luck?
I’d say luck has definitely been on my side, but I wouldn’t give luck all the credit. I’ve had some really great opportunities come my way, and I’m grateful for the people who trusted me early on and referred others to me. That absolutely helped my business grow.
But at the same time, a lot of it came down to hard work, consistency, and being willing to learn and adapt. Luck might open a door, but you still have to walk through it, show up every day, and do the work. So for me, it’s been a mix — a little good luck, and a lot of effort, passion, and being there for my clients and their dogs when it matters.
Pricing:
- Puppy Class $135
- Basic Class $155
- Loose Leash Class $160
- Advance Class $155
- In Home Training starting at $45/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.newtrickstraining.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newtrickspuppyanddogtraining
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15oA9oK6yL/
