About Us

Training options with Downward Dog

Private training sessions can be done at your home. These sessions last between 1-1.5 hours depending on the dog's energy level. Here the owner will be able to discuss any behavioral issues and receive advice and hands-on training to address the issues that are happening in the dog's environment.

Downward Dog has simplified obedience training by eliminating less used commands and sticking with the most commonly used ones on a daily basis, effectively forming leveraging the popular “8 Common Commands” system.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Dog Through Science-Based Training

Our Story

At Downward Dog Training, our story begins with a passion for animals and a desire to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Founded in 2022 by Baylee Ellis, a highly skilled and dedicated dog trainer, our organization has become a beacon of hope and transformation in the Portland area.

Baylee's lifelong love for dogs and her unwavering commitment to their well-being led her on a journey of extensive training and education. Her pursuit of excellence led her to earn a KPA certification, recognized as one of the most rigorous and respected dog training certifications in the industry. Armed with her knowledge and expertise, Baylee set out to create a training company that would redefine the standards of service dog training.

Our approach is rooted in compassion, empathy, and positive reinforcement techniques. We understand that every dog is unique, and we work closely with each owner to develop customized training plans that address their specific needs. Through this personalized approach, we empower dogs and their handlers to achieve their full potential and forge an unbreakable bond of trust.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. We firmly believe that financial circumstances should not hinder access to quality training. Regardless of their financial situation, we strive to assist dogs and their owners on their journey to success, providing support and guidance every step of the way.

As our story continues to unfold, we remain dedicated to our mission of making a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Through our passion, expertise, and unwavering commitment to positive reinforcement training, we are proud to be a trusted partner on the path to empowerment, independence, and unlimited possibilities.

What We Value

At Downward Dog Training, our values are the guiding principles that drive everything we do. We deeply value compassion and understand the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. With empathy and kindness, we provide training that takes into account the unique needs of both service dogs and their handlers.

Integrity is at the core of our operations. We believe in conducting ourselves with honesty, transparency, and ethical practices. By upholding these values, we build trust and foster long-lasting relationships with our clients, employees, and the wider community.

We are committed to excellence in every aspect of our work. Our dedicated team strives for exceptional training programs, prioritizing the well-being and development of service dogs. We continuously update our knowledge and skills to ensure we deliver the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Collaboration is vital to our approach. We recognize the power of working together and actively seek partnerships with organizations and professionals in the service dog community. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, we maximize our collective impact and create opportunities for mutual growth and success.

Above all, we are driven by the desire to empower individuals with disabilities. We equip service dogs with the skills they need to assist their handlers, while providing handlers with the tools and knowledge to effectively work with their service dogs. Through our values, we aim to make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve and contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate society.

Compassion

We approach our work with compassion, recognizing the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. We provide training and support with empathy, kindness, and understanding.

Integrity

We uphold the highest standards of integrity, conducting ourselves with honesty, transparency, and ethical practices. We build trust and maintain the utmost professionalism in all our interactions.

Team Work

We believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration. We foster a supportive environment where trainers, handlers, and service dogs work together harmoniously to achieve shared goals.

Empowerment

We are passionate about empowering individuals with disabilities. Through our training programs, we equip service dogs with the skills they need to assist their handlers, empowering both dogs and handlers to achieve independence and a higher quality of life.

Community Outreach

We value reaching out to the community to raise awareness, educate, and foster understanding about the role and importance of service dogs. We actively engage in community outreach initiatives to promote inclusivity and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Collaboration

We actively seek partnerships and collaborations within the service dog community. By working together with organizations and professionals, we enhance our impact and contribute to the broader goals of improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Meet The Team

Founder & Lead Trainer

Baylee Ellis

Baylee is a highly skilled and dedicated dog trainer based in Portland, Oregon. With a passion for animals that began at a young age, Baylee has spent her entire career working with dogs and their owners to help them achieve their full potential.

Baylee's extensive training and education have prepared her to handle even the most challenging cases. She holds a KPA certification, which is recognized as one of the most rigorous and respected dog training certifications in the industry. This certification reflects Baylee's commitment to using positive reinforcement techniques that are both effective and humane.

In addition to her impressive qualifications, Baylee is also the founder of Downward Dog Training. This organization is dedicated to helping dogs and their owners, regardless of their financial situation.

Baylee's approach to dog training is rooted in empathy and compassion. She understands that every dog is unique, and she works closely with each owner to develop a customized training plan that meets their specific needs. Whether she's working with a young puppy or an older dog, Baylee is committed to helping each animal reach its full potential.

Outside of her work with Downward Dog Training, Baylee enjoys spending time with her own dogs, hiking, and exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest. With her years of experience, her dedication to positive reinforcement techniques, and her commitment to making a difference in the world, Baylee is truly one of the most skilled and compassionate dog trainers in the Portland area.

Lead Furpanion & Service Dog

Iris Ellis

A Golden Retriever Dedicated to Making a Difference

Iris, a Golden Retriever, is an integral part of the Company Downward Dog Training team. With a warm and gentle nature, Iris brings joy, support, and unwavering dedication to her role as a service dog.

Trained by Baylee Ellis, the founder of Downward Dog Training, Iris embodies the values of compassion and empowerment. Through Baylee's guidance and the positive reinforcement techniques she employs, Iris has developed a remarkable set of skills to assist individuals in their daily lives.

Iris is more than a highly trained service dog; she is a companion and a source of comfort. With her calm demeanor and intuitive nature, she provides emotional support and enhances the well-being of those she interacts with.