Service Dog Training

Erin Topp is the owner of Topp Canine Solutions, based in the Ames, Iowa area. Topp Canine Solutions utilizes science-based, positive reinforcement training techniques to help you build a training relationship with your dog. Training should be fun for both you and your dog, and our training games make this possible while also being productive.

Erin has been part of the animal community for the past 20 years-starting young in the 4H Dog Project and continuing through high school and college working as a Veterinary Assistant and training her friends' dogs. In 2014, Erin decided to start Topp Canine Solutions, LLC, to make positive reinforcement training more accessible to members of the community.

Committed to providing the most effective, convenient solutions to her clients' dog training needs, Erin avidly pursues ongoing continuing education and professional development by attending several seminars per year and keeping current on all industry literature. A Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP), Erin is also a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), and a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT). She grew up in the Ames area and graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor's degree in Marketing. To help other dogs get a second chance, Erin volunteers with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa and provides a foster home for Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus. She is also past President of the Cyclone Country Kennel Club and current Superintendent of the Story County 4H Dog Project. When she is not helping clients enjoy easier lives with their canine companions, Erin trains in obedience, Schutzhund/IPO, and lure coursing with her own four dogs: Bourbon (Doberman), Vito (Staffordshire bull terrier mix), Monday (American Staffordshire terrier), and Rookie (American Staffordshire terrier).

Topp Canine Solutions offer the following services:

Private, In-Home Training/Behavior Modification Consultation: This service is to address specific undesirable behaviors, and occurs in your home. A custom training and behavior-modification plan will be developed based on your needs and your dog's needs.

Puppy Start Right: This training covers basic puppy manners and foundation behaviors, as well as potty-training techniques, proper socialization, resource and food-guarding prevention, and crate training.

Family Manners: This training is for dogs 6 months or older working on basic manners and foundation behaviors. The class will also address undesirable behaviors that may have surfaced.

Beyond Basics: Training for dogs that are ready to move on to more complex behaviors and get ready for the Canine Good Citizen test.