Cher Suydam

My journey in dog training and behavior spans over two decades, marked by a deep enthusiasm and commitment to improving the lives of dogs and their human companions.

My work with dogs began at The Seeing Eye, where I trained dogs to assist the blind and visually impaired. In 2003, I transitioned to pet dog training when I began managing a doggie daycare and day training facility, a move that allowed me to explore my deep interest in understanding canine behavior and help everyday families strengthen their bonds with their canine companions.

In 2005, I graduated with honors from the San Francisco SPCA’s Academy for Dog Trainers, further solidifying my expertise in the field. Shortly after, I launched my own dog training business, Positively Trainable and simultaneously joined St. Hubert’s Dog Training School. I spent the next seven years honing my skills in both group and private settings, as well as conducting dog bite prevention seminars for children. My dedication to canine welfare reached new heights when I joined the ASPCA to help establish the Behavioral Rehabilitation Center (BRC), the first-ever permanent facility dedicated to the rehabilitation and study of extremely fearful, unadoptable dogs—most of whom are victims of cruelty and neglect. I was with the ASPCA for a decade, starting with the inception of the BRC in Madison, NJ, and later moving to their permanent location in Weaverville, NC. For the last five years of my tenure, I served as Senior Manager of the Behavior Team, where I not only played a crucial role in honing the center’s approach to rehabilitating vulnerable dogs, but with my enthusiasm and passion for connection, helped bring those attributes to the working culture at the BRC.