Dr. Sophie Liu
With an unwavering commitment to dogs and their people
As a veterinarian, published scientific author, and an accomplished dog trainer, Dr. Sophie Liu is a highly sought after behavior consultant and presenter. After receiving ACVB-resident training, Dr. Liu returned to her roots in Oakland, CA to provide a full range of services for East Bay dog owners.
Dr. Liu knows that raising a puppy or a well-adjusted adult dog requires a perfect blend of a dog's genetic background + confident learning experiences + expert management. And it's actually extremely hard! So, for those owners who want the right start or are looking for help with a specific behavior problem, Dr. Liu has seen it all and is ready to help!
Education and experience
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
Bachelors of Science: University of California, Berkeley
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine: Cornell University
Behavior and training internship: Dr. Sophia Yin, 5 years
ACVB Behavior Residency: San Francisco SPCA, 4 years
Scientific Publications:
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2020.12.002
Training Background
Dr. Liu uses evidence-based, compassionate, practical training. The science is clear about what effective training looks like and how it impacts dogs' welfare. Through clever positive reinforcement and environmental management, the goal is to create cooperative dogs who like to work, even in competition and without food present.
Dr. Liu has experienced and trained virtually the entire spectrum of dog problems: from normal "problems" like housetraining and annoying adolescence to serious disorders like phobias, anxiety, and aggression. She has trained and titled dogs in competitive obedience, agility, and bite sports
Dr. Liu's dogs & achievements
Ivy
Alice
Ivy
Ivy was the original inspiration because she was extremely dog aggressive! Through effective behavior modification and expert management, Ivy thrived in dense urban environments and she even flew cross country 3 times!
Ipa
Alice
Ivy
Ipa is a uniquely fun and challenging dog. She earned her IGP1 title (also known as: German Schutzhund, widely considered one of the most difficult dog sports in the world) . She also has her Rally Excellent and Trick Dog Advanced titles
Alice
Alice
Alice
Alice is a Formosan Mountain Dog, a village dog rescued directly from Taiwan. Despite her early trauma and fears, Alice thrived with positive reinforcement training and earned her USDAA Starters Jumpers title. The first of many!