Certified Professional Dog Trainer Ralf Weber is the owner and head trainer of Happy Dog Training. Ralf is a long-time dog owner of German Shepherds. During his career, Ralf has worked with over a thousand dogs of many different breeds. Moreover, Ralf has a thorough understanding of all aspects of canine training. This includes evolutionary psychology, ethology, and most importantly, learning science. Particularly, Ralf is specialized in resolving dog behavior challenges—especially fear and aggression. Apart from this, Ralf trains dogs in basic and advanced obedience, and service dog tasks, as well as for GRC Dog Sports. Ralf is further certified in a broad range of other canine training areas. Last but not least, Ralf is the author of the behavioral book If Your Dog Could Talk: Understand Your Dog Like Never Before.
Ralf loves helping people have a better relationship with their dogs. He is a certified professional dog trainer in the Training without Conflict™ methodology by Ivan Balabanov (TWC CPDT). Ralf is also a member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and also holds their basic and advanced dog trainer certifications (IACP CDT, CDTA). In addition, Ralf is an AKC-approved evaluator for the AKC Puppy Star, CGC, and Advanced CGC programs and is also certified in canine first aid by the Red Cross.
Background Information
Originally from Germany, Ralf worked for over twelve years in the technology consulting and software industries. Subsequently, he used his broad spectrum of knowledge and experience to start his own business. Ralf has lived in Southern California since 2001 and considers this amazing state his home. Also, he is an avid hiker and you might run into him and his dogs on the trails.
Ralf is also the founder and president of the German Shepherd rescue Sylvester’s Haven, a 501(c)(3) non-profit. In addition, Ralf is a board member of Life Saver Dogs, a 501(c)(3) non-profit helping eligible people raise money for service dogs.
Ralf’s Dog Training Certifications
Training without Conflict™
Certified Professional Dog Trainer
I am one of the lucky few who officially passed the first-ever Training without Conflict Certification Course by Ivan Balabanov. Undoubtedly, this is one of the most comprehensive certifications in the dog training world today—the gold standard. Therefore, the best dog trainers from around the world strive to be part of this exclusive and professional community. As such, the goal is to become the best trainer you can be and earn this much-coveted certification from Ivan. Consequently, the course material is nothing short of mind-blowing. This equally applies to its quality, comprehensiveness, range, and depth.
Without a doubt, not many know as much about training dogs as Ivan Balabanov. Thus, learning from him has made me a better trainer. This certification course is no joke. The tests are advanced, comprehensive, and complex. Subsequently, certification requires a deep understanding of learning science and training principles. It includes a written exam, a video exam, and demonstration(s) of training skills and animal welfare. Finally, everything is assessed by the critical eyes of one of the best dog trainers in the world. Ivan has over 40 years of professional experience. He has worked extensively in any pet dog, working dog, and sport dog field you have heard of. As a result, successfully graduating from this incredible course was gratifying. And, becoming an officially certified TWC Trainer in this exclusive group is an honor and privilege. I value it deeply.
International Association of
Canine Professionals (IACP)
Dog Trainer Certification (IACP CDT)
Dog Trainer Certification Advanced (IACP CDTA)
Cancer Detection Dog Certification
(In Situ Foundation)
Introduction to Service Dogs Certification
(Most Fine Canine)
CGC Evaluator (AKC)
Advanced Socialization (Pack to Basics)
Teaching Group Classes (Pack to Basics)
Social Responsibility Foundation
(Next Level Dogs)
Assault Prevention and Safety for Trainers
(Canine Human Relationship Institute)
Advanced Dog Trainer Certification Course 2
(Joel Silverman, Movie Dog Training)
Dog First Aid (Red Cross)
Back to Team Overview.