
Annie Phenix
Certified Canine Behaviourist | CEO of the Phenix Advocacy Center​, The Canine Trauma Clinic & Choose To Train Humane
We are honored to present Annie Phenix as a Virtual Speaker at the Dog People Evolution Conference 2025.
Annie Phenix is a highly respected dog trainer, behavior consultant, and award-winning journalist with over three decades of experience in the field of canine behavior. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin, Annie began her career in journalism before shifting to dog training in the 1990s, where she has since fostered over 400 dogs and become a prominent voice for compassionate, force-free training. She is the founder of the Phenix Advocacy Center (PAC), which provides crucial support to canine professionals by addressing the emotional and mental health needs within the industry, advocating for marginalized groups, and offering a space for peer-to-peer support.
More About Annie
The founder of The Phenix Advocacy Center
Through her work with PAC, Annie has witnessed the emotional toll many dog professionals face, including exhaustion, stress, and the isolation caused by the toxicity and misogyny that persist in the industry. Her advocacy center serves as a much-needed resource to help individuals navigate these challenges, offering a supportive environment for those committed to positive reinforcement (R+) methods, while also tackling the prevalence of cyberbullying and the growing presence of force-based training techniques like shock collars. Annie's work helps reinforce the importance of compassion, emotional well-being, and mental health for those dedicated to force-free, science-backed training.
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She is the author of two highly regarded books: The Midnight Dog Walkers (2016), nominated for a Maxwell Award by the Dog Writers Association of America, and Positive Training for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs (2022), both of which have had a significant impact on the dog training community.
Annie's contributions go beyond training dogs; she is a powerful advocate for changing the narrative within the industry. Her recent book, Positive Training for Aggressive and Reactive Dogs, and her leadership at PAC emphasize the necessity for a global, supportive community of R+ trainers. She is a tireless advocate for fostering unity, healing, and emotional awareness within the canine community, recognizing that the well-being of dogs is intricately tied to how we support the people who care for them.
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Annie holds numerous certifications, including Certified Family Dog Mediator, Certified Canine Behaviorist (INTODogs), CPDT-KA (retired), and Fear Free Certified Professional.
​Annie runs a successful canine behavior consulting business Choose To Train Humane and she consults with dogs owners worldwide. In 2023, she founded The Canine Trauma Clinic, an online community where healing begins for dogs.
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Annie’s involvement in the Dog People Evolution Conference is pivotal in advancing our mission to create a world where dog people thrive—through growth, understanding, and mutual respect. Her deep commitment to promoting emotional awareness and supporting those working in the dog training profession aligns perfectly with our vision. She is a vital force in helping transform the industry, not just for the dogs, but for the people who dedicate their lives to helping them.