Our team
Paw by Paw's experienced team of dog trainers and behavior specialists are committed to providing personalized solutions tailored to your pet's unique needs. Whether you're seeking obedience training, behavior modification, or puppy socialization, our experts are here to help.
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With a shared passion for understanding and nurturing the unique bond between dogs and their owners, our team brings together a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a deep-rooted love for all things canine. Meet the individuals behind our mission, each with their own specialized skills and unwavering dedication to helping you and your beloved pet thrive.
David
FOUNDER & MASTER TRAINER
David is an experienced dog trainer with a background in K-9 police and military dog work. Originally from Israel, he relocated to the D.C. area in 2015 to further his expertise at the prestigious Highland Canine School for Dog Trainers. During the intensive 480-hour program, David mastered a range of training techniques—from positive reinforcement to balanced methods—and gained additional certifications in canine nutrition, first aid, and CPR.
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Since then, David has worked with thousands of dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, focusing on developing trust, confidence, and clear communication between dogs and their humans. He’s also shared his knowledge through specialized seminars for police and military handlers across the country.
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David founded Paw by Paw with one mission in mind: to create real, lasting change for dogs and their families. His training style is calm, practical, and results-driven, always tailored to the unique needs of each dog-human team. Whether he’s working with a reactive rescue or guiding a new puppy through its first commands, David brings patience, expertise, and heart to every session helping clients build a better bond with their dog, one paw at a time.
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LEENA
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Leena is Paw by Paw’s Director of Operations and the backbone of our day-to-day flow. After three years as our Facility Manager, she now oversees the systems and structures that keep our team running smoothly, from managing staff schedules and client communications to ensuring everything behind the scenes aligns with our mission of exceptional care.
With a strong foundation in pet care, Leena brings years of experience in the pet retail industry and a background in front desk operations at a busy daycare and boarding facility. She’s certified in dog and cat nutrition through the U.C. Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and continues to be a go-to source for pet wellness advice.
Leena has been dog sitting for many years and is known for treating every furry friend like family. Her own dog, Bones—a lovable pit bull—is often the recipient of her signature head scratches (which she generously offers to Paw by Paw pups too).
JESSE
TRAINING MANAGER
Since 2017, Jesse has been immersed in the world of dog training. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Anthrozoology and earned his Obedience and Behavioral Modification certificate from Highland Canine School for Dog Trainers. His diverse experience includes roles at Petsmart, Petco, K9s for Warriors, and Beaches Animal Clinic, where he served as a kennel tech and vet tech trainee.
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Growing up in Rockville, MD, Jesse has always been surrounded by dogs. His current companion, Gizmo, is a lovable golden doodle, and he fondly remembers his childhood dogs, including an Akita and three poodles.
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Jesse's goal in dog training is to ensure that every dog owner can fully enjoy life with their furry friends and communicate effectively with them. He is passionate about Paw by Paw because it goes beyond a typical dog training company, demonstrating genuine care for clients and a commitment to making dog ownership a joyful experience.
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Fun fact: In addition to his expertise in dog training, Jesse has also trained fish, birds, reptiles, and small mammals.
Rowan
DOGGIE DAY SCHOOL MANAGER
Rowan, a lifetime animal lover, and certified trainer helps dogs of all ages reach their full potential at Paw by Paw’s Doggie Day School.
Rowan is passionate about animal care and education and has earned certificates in pet first aid, CPR, and boarding. He loves rescue dogs, especially his American Staffordshire Terrier, Candy.
At Paw by Paw Dog Training, Rowan strives to create a stronger bond between our pet parents and their pups through agility classes, private lessons, and Doggie Day School.
Alissa
DOG TRAINER
Alissa, one of our Doggie Day School experts first found her calling working at a local dog daycare facility, where she supervised over 100 dogs daily for five transformative years.
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Her dedication and enthusiasm led her to embark on a unique training journey. From training a service dog, she transitioned to nurturing her own mixed breed dog, showcasing her commitment to understanding and communicating with our four-legged friends.
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Fueled by an unyielding passion for animal behavior, Alissa's mission is to forge enduring bonds between dogs and their owners through the art of obedience training.