Meet the Hero team!
Our Hero
Through life’s ups and downs, our German Shepherd, Hero, has been by our side.
When we first brought him home, we weren’t trainers and honestly did everything wrong. He was incredibly reactive, lunging, barking, and panicking at the sight of another dog. I originally named him “Hero” because I hoped he’d become a police K9, but that path wasn’t meant to be. Instead, he became my hero in a different way.
Training Hero changed both of our lives. Seeing his progress gave me confidence I'd never had before, because every small win showed me that change was possible for both of us. He went from the dog who stressed me out to the one I turned to when I needed calm.
Now, he’s the heart behind Your Hero Dog Training. He is our foundation, our best friend, and the reason this business exists. These days, his favorite things are chasing a frisbee, soaking up belly rubs, and enjoying a good piece of chicken.
We see ourselves in so many of our clients. The frustration, the exhaustion, and the quiet hope that things can feel easier. We understand that journey because we lived it. We also know how powerful it feels when you start to see your dog relax, listen, and truly trust you.
That is why we train. To help others build the kind of bond, confidence, and connection we have with Hero today.
Meet Autumn
—Certified Professional Dog Trainer
Hi, I’m Autumn!
My journey with dogs began early. At sixteen, I started working in dog daycares and boarding facilities, where I learned how to safely handle dogs of every breed, temperament, and personality. Those formative years taught me how to read canine body language, manage group dynamics, and recognize what dogs truly need to feel safe, confident, and balanced.
Driven to deepen my knowledge, I attended Tarheel Canine School for Dog Trainers, earning professional certifications in Obedience, Behavior Modification, Detection, and Protection Training. While working hands-on with K9s was exciting, I discovered that my true passion was helping families navigate behavioral challenges and build strong, lasting communication through structure and obedience.
After graduating, I traveled to Tennessee and worked closely with hundreds of dogs. That experience allowed me to continue refining my work in behavior rehabilitation and e-collar communication, while learning how to meet each dog where they were emotionally and mentally. It played an important role in shaping how I train today, with a focus on thoughtful communication and lasting results.
When I returned home to Maryland, I expanded my work to include in-home training and group classes. Teaching owners directly brought a deeper sense of fulfillment, as I saw how powerful it is when people truly understand their dogs.
Along the way, I began studying canine nutrition after seeing firsthand how nutrition strongly influences a dog’s behavior and learning ability. A balanced diet supports both physical health and emotional regulation, which directly affects how a dog shows up in training. By integrating nutrition into behavior work, I can take a truly whole-dog approach with every client.
Today, I bring over nine years of experience in dog handling, training, and behavior work, paired with a lifelong passion for helping dogs and their owners thrive together.
Outside of training, I enjoy painting, all types of crafts, music, Stardew Valley, and fostering dogs through Rural Dog Rescue. (Come adopt a dog from us!)
Meet Dom
— Professional Dog Trainer
Hi, I’m Dom!
My journey into dog training began naturally through supporting Autumn. Over the years, I watched her work closely with clients, assisted with dogs of every size and temperament, and witnessed firsthand how structure and clear communication can completely transform a dog’s life. The more time I spent around training, the more I knew I wanted to be part of that process myself.
After years of hands-on experience and mentorship, I stepped fully into my role as a trainer. I bring a calm, grounded presence to my work that helps dogs settle and feel understood, especially those struggling with anxiety or reactivity. The most meaningful moments for me are when a dog softens, builds trust, and begins to understand what is being asked.
I have worked with everything from energetic puppies learning their first commands to strong-willed dogs navigating behavioral challenges. I believe every dog deserves patience, consistency, and a fair opportunity to succeed. Helping owners build confidence and clarity alongside their dogs is just as important to me because when both sides understand each other, everything becomes easier.
Outside of training, I enjoy watching and playing hockey and football, and I spend as much time as possible hiking with our dogs. It is one of my favorite ways to unwind, stay active, and bond with my boys.
I am grateful every day to work alongside Autumn, training as a team and enjoying the journey with every dog and family we meet.
