Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Frank.
Hi Taylor, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been training dogs for over 25 years, but my journey started when I was just eight years old. My mom signed me up for our local 4-H dog training program, and I was instantly hooked. By eleven, I was competing in American Kennel Club (AKC) events, where I spent the next decade honing my skills in Obedience, Agility, Rally, and Showmanship.
After moving to Georgia, I became the training manager for one of the largest Golden Retriever rescues in the Southeast. My role focused on rehabilitating dogs with behavioral issues—helping them overcome fear, reactivity, and other challenges so they could find permanent homes. I also consulted for rescues along the East Coast to help them also work with difficult behavioral cases.
In 2017, I launched Proper Paws Dog Training with a mission to empower owners. I wanted to bridge the gap between training and education, giving people the tools and confidence to build a strong, lasting bond with their dogs. When my husband and I moved to Utah in 2019, Proper Paws grew beyond what I ever expected. I was honored to be voted one of the Top Three Best Dog Trainers in the state for two years in a row and received multiple business awards for my work.
Now, after moving back to Georgia at the end of 2024, I’m excited to bring Proper Paws back to Atlanta. My approach has evolved, my experience has deepened, and I’m more passionate than ever about helping dog owners create real, lasting change with their dogs.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any business owner, I’ve faced challenges along the way. One of the biggest has been starting over—twice. Moving from Georgia to Utah meant rebuilding my client base and reputation from the ground up, and now, moving back, I’m doing it all over again. Even with years of experience and a strong foundation, establishing a business in a new market always comes with its hurdles.
Seeing owners gain confidence and watching dogs transform through training makes all the hard work worth it!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Proper Paws isn’t just about teaching dogs commands—it’s about teaching owners how to build better relationships with their dogs through clear communication, structure, and trust.
What makes Proper Paws different?
Choice-Based Training: My method blends game-based training with positive reinforcement, teaching dogs to make better choices on their own rather than relying solely on corrections or rewards. This approach creates long-term behavioral changes while strengthening the bond between dog and owner.
Owner-Focused Training: I don’t just train the dog—I coach the owner. My goal is to empower people with the skills and confidence to handle their dogs in any situation. By customizing training to each dog’s unique needs and practicing in real-world settings, we set both dog and owner up for success.
Specializations: As a dog trainer I specialize in general obedience, reactivity and fearful behaviors. As an AKC evaluator I help owners achieve AKC titles, or even do therapy work.
Mission Statement: At Proper Paws, I believe that a lasting change in a dog’s behavior requires a lasting change in the human. My training isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about giving owners the tools to create structure, trust, and a better life with their dog.
Social Media & Reach My mission is to help empower and educate owners everywhere, which is why I share free training tips and resources across my social media platforms. Across all platforms (primarily Instagram and Facebook) I have over 143,000 followers. You can find me at @properpaws.atl
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
If you’re interested in dog training—whether as a career or just to improve your own skills—the best thing you can do is learn from others. Reach out to trainers whose methods align with your values and ask questions. Learn how they built their companies, where they started, what mistakes they have made, and more! This is something I still do myself. Not only will you continuously learn, but you will also meet amazing people to support you along the way. Many trainers also offer shadow programs you can join to work with them hands-on. Another great way to gain experience is by working with rescues and shelters handling a variety of dogs—different ages, breeds, and behavior levels. Most importantly, never stop learning. The dog training industry is constantly evolving, and the best trainers are the ones who stay curious and open to growth.
Pricing:
- Training is not one-size-fits-all, which is why I customize every in-home training program to meet the specific needs of each dog and owner. If you’re interested in private training, I’d love to chat and create a plan tailored to your goals! You can reach out at www.proper-paws.com/contact.
- For those looking for accessible, structured training options, I also offer:
- The Foundational Four Online Program – $150: A comprehensive step-by-step program with 29 in-depth video lessons covering essential commands, troubleshooting, and real-world application.
- Virtual Coaching Sessions – Starting at $95: 45-minute personalized one-on-one sessions, perfect for troubleshooting specific behaviors or supplementing in-person training.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://proper-paws.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/properpaws.atl/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ProperPaws.ATL/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@properpawsatl
Image Credits
Em Behringer (photos #4-6)
