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Learn About Ruff Life
Ruff Life Dog Training Services has been a beloved staple in the Western North Carolina community for nearly a decade. We offer expert professional dog training programs to meet any need, from basic obedience, manners, and housebreaking to complex behavioral consultations related to aggression, anxiety, and more.
We recognize that all dogs have unique personalities and histories that shape their behavior, and we'll provide your special fur baby with tailored guidance and support. We employ proven positive reinforcement techniques that build a sense of security, trust, and mutual respect, so you can experience the joy of learning as a team.
We believe that every dog has what it takes to become well-behaved, and we'll work with you both to overcome any obstacles you're facing. We'll also give you the tools and techniques you need to continue progress at home.
We hope to have the opportunity to welcome you and your good boy or good girl to our pack here at Ruff Life!
Meet the Leader of Our Pack
Tessa Sternbach is the Founder, Owner, and Head Trainer of Ruff Life Dog Training Services. She has spent years working with dogs of all personalities, backgrounds, and behavior challenges, and there's not much she loves more than figuring out what makes a dog tick. Tessa has a special talent for working with challenging dogs and helping their people better understand them. She believes good training starts with understanding each dog's individual needs and finding practical solutions that work for the whole family. Her approach emphasizes positive reinforcement, clear communication, and adaptability.
Tessa's warmth, sense of humor, and genuine love for what she does are just as much a part of her approach as her experience and knowledge. She creates an environment where clients feel comfortable, supported, and never judged. Whether she's helping a family navigate challenging behaviors or mentoring Ruff Life's team of trainers, Tessa brings compassion, creativity, and dedication to her work. For her, the greatest reward is seeing dogs and their people succeed together.
Get a Sniff of What We're All About
We truly care about helping you live a happier life with your dog, and we work hard to ensure that you both have a personalized experience that strengthens your bond and provides you with all the hands-on attention you need.
We offer a range of educational services and engaging events to give your pup ample opportunity to learn, practice, socialize, and have fun in settings where they feel safe and confident.
When you join Ruff Life, you're supported by genuine dog lovers who are knowledgeable, dedicated professionals and make your dog's well-being their top priority.
We Embrace All Dogs & People!
Fully Inclusive Space
As an LGBTQ+ owned business, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment is something close to our hearts. We believe everyone deserves to feel respected, valued, and comfortable being themselves. Ruff Life proudly welcomes people of all backgrounds, identities, and walks of life, along with dogs of all breeds, ages, abilities, and behavioral needs. We recognize that every dog and person comes with their own experiences, challenges, and strengths, and we embrace those differences. Kindness, compassion, and respect are at the heart of what we do, and we're proud of the diverse community that makes up our Ruff Life pack.
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Challenging Cases
There's never been a dog we couldn't or wouldn't work with. We have extensive experience helping dogs with behavioral challenges, including anxiety, reactivity, and aggression, as well as those who have been impacted by abuse. We find joy in improving a dog's behavior and overall comfort, even (especially) from the rockiest of starts.
