“Our family has had the pleasure of working with Sioban for two very different circumstances. First, she helped turn our rambunctious lab puppy into a well-behaved little lady. Later, she helped our timid shepherd/hound mix, who was even afraid of going to the driveway, gain his confidence. Anytime we hear of someone with dog behavior issues or who is getting a puppy we recommend Sioban.”

— The Ochoa Family, Pinole

“Our dog Naia was a sweet puppy, but she was extremely strong-willed and not calm around other people or dogs. We hired Sioban to work with us and Naia, and she has helped us a great deal! We now have way better control over Naia and have learned how to manage her tricky behaviors. Sioban is a dog whisperer and super knowledgeable about dogs and their behavior. And, she is wonderful at teaching the owners how to work with their dogs. I highly recommend Sioban to anyone looking for a dog trainer!”

— Rhodesian ridgeback Naia’s family, Orinda

“We hired Sioban to help us with our dog Venom when he was a puppy. Venom is very loving, but he jumped on people and licked them when he got excited. He also paid too much attention to other dogs during our walks. Sioban worked with us and our two boys regarding both issues. She gave us techniques that were easy to implement which stopped him from jumping on people. She would also bring other dogs along during our training sessions which helped tremendously with getting venom to pay less attention to the other dogs and more attention to us during our walks. Since training with Sioban, we constantly receive compliments regarding how well-behaved Venom is everywhere we go.”

— Labrador retriever Venom’s family, Concord

“Even though I grew up with a dog, I was unaware of the time and energy that needed to go into training a puppy. The first thing Sioban did was validate our experience as new owners, and then she got down to business teaching us the skills to change the negative behaviors. After our training sessions, she has continued to be a resource during the different stages of puppy-hood. Sioban is an expert in dog training and helped our family get through the tough stages and enjoy all the goodness a well-trained dog brings to a family.!”

— Doodle, Cooper’s family, Lafayette

“Our family was introduced to Sioban 11 years ago when we sought out her guidance with our son’s Siberian Husky, Leo. Having only ever raised Golden Retrievers and being unfamiliar with such a unique breed, Sioban’s help was invaluable. Since originally meeting Sioban we have welcomed 2 golden retrievers into our home. Taking on a new puppy is always challenging and Sioban gave us the confidence we needed. She’s readily available when I have needed her to guide me in the right direction. 

Our second puppy was acquired during Covid in the midst of various shutdowns. It is very challenging to have a puppy and be unable to attend obedience classes or socialize with other dogs appropriately. Sioban was able to get creative and assist us in keeping on track with training and obedience. 

Kona and Kai were/are better dogs because of all the guidance we have received. Sioban is a wonderful trainer who is not only knowledgeable but resourceful as well. We truly appreciate her.”

— Siberian husky, Leo, and Golden retrievers, Kona, Kai, and Koa’s family, Clayton

“Our family had the opportunity to use Sioban Bowyer as our trainer for our chocolate Lab puppy, Nala. Not only was she extremely knowledgeable, she possessed patience and understanding as she tried to navigate not only training Nala but the family as well. Ultimately, our little Lab has grown into a well-trained, loving, and sweet addition to our family because of the training Sioban provided. She has also, on many occasions, opened up her home to board our Nala while we traveled. She has been an absolute blessing to our family. I would highly recommend her to anyone trying to train a new pup. We also called upon her to evaluate our son's Rottweiler, Delilah, who needed some immediate correction. She responded promptly and helped us work through our issues. So thankful for the service she provided.”

— The Schwitters Family, Clayton

“Sioban is such a very talented, experienced, and enjoyable person to work with! Her approach to dog training has tremendously helped my wildly energetic lab puppy become a well-trained/behaved adult dog. She has a variety of training ideas and methods that will help with any issues-and your dog will enjoy it. I highly recommend Sioban for all training needs!”

— Bailey’s mom, Danville

“Our 8-year-old Labrador retriever brings our family joy every day in large part due to the help we received from Sioban. She came to our house the day we brought Otto home (at 8 weeks old), immediately engaged our four kids (ages 7-13 at the time), and for the next several months helped us teach him how to do everything from remaining on a stay in the middle of a crowded Crate and Barrel store to walking or running on the bike path without pulling or dragging. Otto never ever jumps, very rarely barks, does not chase squirrels, and always comes when called. While he’s not perfect (what Lab doesn’t love to clean up a few crumbs!), he is without a doubt the best-behaved dog we’ve had. He is never intimidating and loves to make new friends whether young children, adults, the elderly, or other dogs. Without hesitation, we recommend Sioban and Cafe Dog to any and all dog owners.”

— Labrador retriever, Otto’s family, Lafayette

“As parents to three young kids, we thought we were prepared for the care of a puppy. However, as soon as we brought our adorable but high-energy lab home we knew we needed help! Luckily we were referred to Sioban who swooped in and saved the day with her calm but firm training expertise. We were amazed at how from the minute she walked in the door Mando’s energy changed. He zeroed in on her and was ready to learn.

While we were impressed by Sioban’s ability to handle Mando, the more impressive part was in her training of us! She was able to teach our kids puppy handling techniques so that they felt safer from his puppy nipping and jumping. By empowering the kids she brought some calmness back to our home and made us feel like we could handle this addition to our family!

We have also been fortunate enough to have Mando board with Sioban on two occasions. We loved her updates and photos, and felt relaxed on our vacation knowing he was in good hands!”

— Labrador retriever, Mando’s family, Kentfield