About the Follow My Lead Dog Trainers

Dogs add immeasurably to the quality of life of many New Yorkers. But having a dog in the city can also be a challenge. Since February 1992, when it was founded on Manhattan's Upper West Side by Phyllis Couvares and Peggy Spencer, Follow My Lead has been one of the foremost schools addressing the special training needs of the urban dog.

The trainers at Follow My Lead (Tara Green and David Hawke joined in 1995) are accomplished professionals committed to reward-based training. All of us have worked with dogs of different sizes, ages, breeds, and temperaments. Our understanding of canine behavior is deepened by our recognition that the study of canine behavior is an evolving field. Our openness to that evolution, combined with the depth of our experience and insight, means that we offer a variety of up-to-date solutions to your training issues.

In our classes and our private lessons, we hope that the enthusiasm and joy we find in working with dogs translates into classes that are equal parts instructive and fun. When we talk about "working" with our dogs, we are talking about finding better ways to communicate, which often involves play. We want you to have a great time training your dog, and for your dog to have a great time learning with you.

Phyllis Couvares

Phyllis' keen observation and skillful handling have been developed over a 20-year career. She has a remarkable ability to teach owners how to overcome the frustrations that sometimes keep them from fully enjoying their dogs.

Peggy Spencer

Peggy is extremely successful in finding creative yet practical solutions to counter a variety of behavior problems (including aggression). For more than 25 years, she has been teaching people how to bring out the best in their dogs.

Tara Green

Tara's attentiveness to the needs of her students and her infectious enthusiasm for dog training imbue her lessons and classes with a unique sense of fun.  

David Hawke

David is an exceptionally patient and gentle teacher who takes particular delight in the "light bulb" moment that occurs when students realize they are able to communicate with their dogs, and when dogs get that they can be understood.