Founding the PROPER PUP co.
Hey, I’m Lindsey! The trainer and owner behind The Proper Pup Co.! The Marine Corps brought my family to Eastern North Carolina back in 2015, and we loved it so much we never left. In 2021, I founded The Proper Pup Co., a small, boutique-style dog training business right here in New Bern, NC.
I wasn't always a dog trainer.
I was actually once the anxious, overwhelmed dog owner trying to figure it all out. I watched every YouTube video I could find, tried all the tips and tricks, and did my best to train my first dog on my own. Needless to say, that only got me so far.
When we first moved to North Carolina, we sought professional help for some pretty challenging behaviors with our own dogs, including separation anxiety and reactivity. I had no idea at the time just how much that experience would change my life.
Not only did I discover a completely different way of understanding and communicating with dogs, but I fell in love with the entire process. I eventually began interning and working with the training company that had helped us. I soaked up everything I could, and several years later, The Proper Pup Co. was born.
That experience is still a huge part of how I approach training today. I know what it's like to love your dog and feel frustrated, confused, or unsure of what to do next. And I also know how incredible it feels when things finally start to click.
For me, dog training is about so much more than obedience. It's about understanding the dog in front of you, building trust, setting clear expectations, and giving dogs the outlets and freedom they need to thrive. The first time you see your dog having true freedom, you’ll never go back.
That same philosophy inspired the newest chapter of The Proper Pup Co., our Off Leash Adventure Club. I wanted to create something that gives dogs the opportunity to get out, explore, socialize, and actually use the skills we've worked so hard to build. What's the point of all that training if we aren't out enjoying life with our dogs?
And when I'm not hanging out with dogs? There's a good chance you'll find me at the barn. I'm a lifelong horse girl and compete with my hunter/jumper mare. Apparently, I just can't get enough of working with four-legged animals!
Whether you're starting fresh with a puppy, navigating some challenging behaviors, or dreaming of more freedom and adventures with your dog, I'd love to be part of your journey.
Meet my Proper Pups
Zella
Our first pup, an irreplaceable, beautiful, 9-year-old Plott Hound. She loved basking in a cozy, sunny spot, and lived for chasing a ball. Zella gave me my first experience with the hound group, dogs with high drive and one-track minds.
IN MEMORIAM 2021
Rico
12 year old Kelpie? Heeler mix? We found him on the side of the road in Alabama! Rico is always up for a new challenge. He has a quick brain and loves free shaping to learn new skills. He has taught me how to train the dog you have. My journey with Rico has given me invaluable experience on how to develop confidence in anxious fearful dogs.
BETTY
Betty, the 3 year old Golden Retriever! Betty has an exuberant personality and is a grade A cuddler. She is absolutely obsessed with people and like a true golden has never met a stranger.

