Meet Nikki

Hi, I’m Nikki Montague. Welcome to Sensible Solutions Dog Training, where I am passionate about helping to cultivate more fulfilling and harmonious relationships between people and their dogs. Whether you’re starting out with a brand-new puppy, have an adolescent dog with little self-control, or a dog with fear, anxiety, reactivity or aggression issues, Sensible Solutions is here to help. As a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) I understand what drives your dog’s behavior as well as how to help you improve it.

My mission is to educate owners to better understand what their dog is trying to communicate, reinforce desirable behavior and create environments that set dogs up to make good choices. Behavior modification and training are done through positive reinforcement and empowerment.

My unique path started as a middle school teacher, first in California, and then Hawaii! It was during this fun and rewarding career that I gained a deeper understanding of the science of learning and behavior. While teaching full time, I also operated a pet-sitting business, and discovered that learning and behavior science applied to dogs as well.  I had the pleasure of mentoring under two well respected, professional dog trainers/behavior consultants and I dedicated myself to rigorous study. In 2017 I made the transition to full-time professional dog training and subsequently earned my credentials, first as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and then as a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine.

I have a passion for dogs, health, and anything outdoors. I am devoted to my Shepherd Collie mix, Mia, who adores her Frisbee and anything else she can chase! My mission is to help dog owners address problem behavior and create desirable behavior patterns instead. I look forward to working with you!

Why train with Sensible Solutions Dog Training?

I hold an internationally recognized credential as a Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC-KA), & a credential as a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA).

  • I am committed to science-based, force-free, non-aversive education, positive reinforcement training techniques and humane equipment.

  • I take my role very seriously to strengthen and educate the dog & owner team, I do not use punishment methods with your dog. 

  • I positively reinforce alternative behaviors designed to reduce/eliminate unwanted behaviors (ex. jumping on people, counter-surfing).

  • I train in your home and real-world settings.

  • I provide your dog with: 

    • cognitive problem-solving opportunities 

    • confidence-building exercises designed to empower your dog & reduce behaviors associated with anxiety and fear (ex. barking/lunging). 

    • safe exposure to a variety of people places, sights, sounds, surfaces and smells (to prevent puppies from exhibiting fear-reactive behavior later in life). 

  • I am fully insured by “Business Insurers of the Carolinas.”

Why train with Nikki?

The peace of mind that comes with having a well-behaved, confident, happy, and safe dog.