Our Approach

Beyond Canine Learning is dedicated to providing exceptional behavior modification consulting for dogs, utilizing the most up-to-date humane, positive reinforcement techniques supported by scientific research. Our business is led by a Certified Canine Behavior Consultant and Professional Dog Trainer, holding certifications from the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers. We specialize in addressing a wide range of canine behavior issues including impulsivity, reactivity, separation anxiety, resource guarding, leash manners, aggression, puppy skills, and low resiliency fear-related issues. Additionally, we offer Pet CPR/First Aid certification classes through ProPet Heros.

Our target audience encompasses dog daycares, boarding facilities, dog walkers, pet sitters, auxiliary veterinary staff, pet-friendly housing management, first responders, pet insurance providers, dog and cat lovers and owners, breeders, pet-friendly corporations, retailers, and policymakers. We also serve as a Legislative Consultant and Policy Advisor for state and federal lawmakers seeking to pass animal-related legislation.

Beyond Canine Learning also provides expert witness case work as a certified Dog Behavior Consultant, professional business consulting for professional development and business practices, and sessions available in person and via zoom worldwide. Our business is based in Bothell, Washington, and our owner brings over 25 years of industry experience to the table.

Our standout feature lies in our extensive expertise and experience in the field, as well as the diverse range of services we offer, including behavior modification consulting, legislative consulting, expert witness case work, and professional business consulting.

Meet Our Founder

Leslie Csokasy, CDBC, CPDT-KA, FFCP

Founder & Lead Consultant

Leslie Csokasy is a nationally recognized canine behavior consultant with over 24 years of experience transforming the lives of dogs and their families through compassionate, science-based training and behavior modification. As the founder and director of Great Dog in Seattle and owner of Beyond Canine Learning, Leslie specializes in addressing complex behavioral challenges including aggression, reactivity, separation anxiety, and fear-based behaviors.

With a deep commitment to building trust and improving communication between dogs and their people, Leslie has dedicated her career to creating customized solutions that honor each dog's unique needs while empowering owners with the knowledge and skills to support lasting behavioral change. Leslie also works alongside her certified therapy dogs, demonstrating her dedication to the transformative power of the human-canine bond.

Education & Credentials

Leslie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Hope College and has pursued extensive professional education in canine behavior and training. Her certifications include:

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) – International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) – Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
Fear Free Professional Consultant (FFCP) – Fear Free Pets
Certified Pet Dog Ambassador Instructor & Assessor (PDA-PPG) – Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Certified Canine Good Citizen Evaluator – American Kennel Club (AKC)
Certified Pet CPR and First Aid Instructor and First Responder – ProPet
Graduate of APDT's Behavior Consultant Certificate Program

Leadership & Community Impact

Beyond her direct work with dogs, Leslie has made significant contributions to the broader canine welfare community:

Founder & Director, Great Dog (2001–Present) – Established a premier dog training and behavior modification organization serving Seattle and beyond
Owner/Operator, BARK Espresso (2010–Present) – Created Seattle's beloved dog-friendly café, fostering community connections and supporting local animal welfare organizations
Founder, Project Canine (2006–2011) – Built a nonprofit organization dedicated to therapy dog programs and education
President, Seattle Dog Daycare Association (2003–2011) – Led industry advancement through best practices, advocacy, and professional development
Director, National Greyhound Association (2015–Present) – Advocates for greyhound welfare, adoption, and education on a national scale

Legislative & Legal Expertise

Leslie brings valuable expertise to legislative consulting and expert witness testimony, having advised state and federal lawmakers across Washington, Oregon, North Dakota, West Virginia, Florida, and Kansas on animal welfare policy, breed-specific legislation, and pet industry regulations. Her science-backed testimony in legal proceedings involving dog bites, aggression assessments, training disputes, and animal welfare violations provides courts and legislators with clear, credible insights grounded in current canine behavioral science.

Professional Approach

Leslie's work is rooted in positive reinforcement, relationship-based training methods that prioritize the emotional well-being of both dogs and their families. As a Fear Free Certified Professional, she emphasizes stress-free handling and creates environments where dogs can learn and thrive. Her unique combination of hands-on training expertise, business acumen, and policy experience makes her a sought-after consultant for pet professionals, lawmakers, and legal teams alike.

Professional Affiliations

Member, International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Member, Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
Member, Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
Member & PDA Assessor, Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
Member, Science Matters, LLC

Whether working one-on-one with families, mentoring emerging trainers, shaping animal welfare policy, or providing expert testimony, Leslie Csokasy brings decades of knowledge, compassion, and proven results to every engagement.