Expert Dog Trainer in
Upstate New York
Katie Roppolo is the founder and head trainer of Playful Pups LLC, providing professional dog training services throughout Kinderhook, Chatham, and communities across Upstate NY. With almost two decades of experience working with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages, Katie specializes in positive reinforcement dog training that builds trust, confidence, and lasting behavioral success.
Through science-based training methods, she helps dogs overcome issues like resource guarding, separation anxiety, and other behavior concerns while strengthening the relationship between dogs and their owners.
Experience & Professional Background
Katie’s journey into professional dog training began in 2008 after adopting her Pit Bull puppy, Maggie. After enrolling Maggie in a training class, Katie discovered her passion for understanding dog behavior and helping dogs succeed. She soon began working as a dog handler at a professional dog daycare, where she gained hands-on experience working with dogs in group environments before becoming an accredited dog trainer.
After completing the Animal Behavior College Dog Trainer Certification Program, Katie launched her own dog training business and has continued expanding her education and expertise ever since. She is committed to ongoing professional development and staying current with the latest research in humane, science-based dog training methods.
Certifications & Professional Memberships
Katie maintains several respected certifications and professional memberships within the dog training industry, including:
- Certified Dog Trainer – Animal Behavior College
- Certified with the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT)
- Professional Member – Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
- Professional Member – Pet Professional Guild (PPG)
- Certified in Fear Free Handling and Veterinary Visits – Fear Free Pets
Katie is also an official evaluator for several American Kennel Club (AKC) training and temperament programs, including:
- AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy
- AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC)
- AKC Temperament Testing (ATT)
Leadership in Dog Behavior & Training
Throughout her career, Katie has held several leadership roles in the dog training and pet care industry. In 2017 she began teaching group dog training classes at East Greenbush Animal Hospital. When the hospital expanded and opened The Big Red Doghouse in 2020, Katie served as the facility’s manager and head trainer, overseeing dog training programs and behavior support.
In 2022, Katie became the Director of Behavior and Training at Far Fetched Acres, a dog boarding and training facility. In this role she was responsible for monitoring dog welfare, teaching staff how to recognize canine body language, and ensuring that all dogs in the program received safe and positive handling.