Best Dog Training In Towson

At Sit Means Sit, we’re not just dog trainers-we’re problem solvers. Our mission? To empower you and your pup with tools, techniques, and patience so every walk, fetch session, and cuddle time becomes a joyful, stress-free experience.

Who We Are

We’re Carmen and Nathan Lawless, parents of 3 amazing dogs. Carmen has worked in the SMS world for the past five years, and in April 2025, we took full ownership of Sit Means Sit Towson and Westminster.

Carmen grew up with dogs-training, playing and understanding them from an early age. Nathan? Well he grew up with cats… That contrast gives gives us a unique perspective: we understand both the struggles and successes of dog ownership, whether you’re an experienced handler or bringing home your first pup.

Beyond training, we’re committed to supporting families from Towson to Westminster through community events, behavior workshops, and one-on-one coaching. Whether your dog is mastering basic manners, managing reactivity, or just needs a refresher in good behavior, we’re here to guide you—with heartfelt enthusiasm and real-world wisdom.

Amanda’s journey into dog training started long before it became her career. Growing up with dogs, she developed an early appreciation for the bond between humans and their canine companions. That passion naturally evolved into hands-on experience when she began training dogs part-time in 2017. She continued to train while pursuing a degree in education.

Amanda spent several years in the classroom as a teacher, but she found herself continually drawn back to working with dogs and their owners. The impact of helping families better understand and communicate with their dogs ultimately led her to make a bold decision—in 2024 she left teaching to pursue dog training full-time and work towards owning her own business. She has dedicated herself to consistently improving the client experience, taking on a management role as the Location Operator.

At home, Amanda shares her life with four dogs—three Corgis and a Belgian Malinois. They continue to inspire her training and deepen her understanding of different personalities, energy levels, and needs.

Outside of training, you can usually find Amanda enjoying the outdoors with her dogs—exploring new places, visiting local cafés and coffee shops, thrifting or gardening. She believes that a well-trained dog opens the door to a fuller, more connected life, and she’s passionate about helping others experience that same freedom.

Specializing in Anxious, Reactive, and Deaf Dogs

Liz’s journey into dog training began with her own dog, Finnigan. He came into her life full of love—but also full of anxiety and reactivity. Navigating his challenges opened Liz’s eyes to the struggles so many dogs and their owners face. Through training, patience, and a deep commitment to building trust, Finnigan has transformed. Today, he joins Liz on all kinds of adventures—whether it’s a dog-friendly restaurant, a weekend camping trip, or simply having guests over without the fear of him biting someone. Seeing him live life to the fullest inspired Liz to help other dogs do the same.

As the Lead Trainer here at Sit Means Sit, Liz specializes in helping anxious, reactive, and deaf dogs build confidence and thrive. She knows how overwhelming behavior challenges can feel, and is here to guide you through every step of the training journey. Whether your dog is barking on leash, struggling with fear, or just needs a clearer way to communicate, Liz will help you bring out the best in them.

Chances are, if you’re interested in learning more about our training, you’ll be sitting down to talk with herself or Carmen. They’re here to answer your questions, get to know your dog, and help you move forward with confidence.

Let’s build your dog’s confidence, unlock their freedom, and create unforgettable memories together.

Stephanie’s journey began as a client seeking help for her own dog, Finley, who struggled with reactivity. That personal experience sparked a deeper passion for training and transformed her love for animals into a professional calling. With a background working with horses, Stephanie brings a calm, confident presence and an intuitive understanding of animal behavior.

Outside of training, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and exploring the outdoors with Finley by her side. Stephanie is especially passionate about helping clients build stronger, more connected relationships with their dogs, and she has a special place in her heart for high-energy breeds that thrive on engagement and structure.

Olivia has always been drawn toward working with animals and has now worked with dogs for several years. Her path into dog training came through her own dog, Draco, where consistent structure and daily practice built a strong and lasting bond between them. Over time, as neighbors, friends, family, and even strangers began commenting on how obedient he was and how effectively she guided him, Olivia started to realize that what felt instinctive to her could be something more meaningful. That realization inspired her to help others build the same level of connection, communication, and trust with their own dogs.

Dog training wasn’t a path she planned, but one that naturally unfolded. She approaches this work with empathy and a deep understanding of not only dogs, but the people who love them too. Today, Olivia is dedicated to guiding owners toward balanced, meaningful relationships with their dogs, focusing on clearer communication, stronger trust, and a deeper sense of harmony between both ends of the leash.

Alyssa spent two years working in healthcare before following her passion for social media, photography, and connecting with people. Having grown up with dogs, she has always loved them and continues to expand her knowledge every day in her role at Sit Means Sit. As the Social Media Manager, Alyssa is the one behind the camera capturing the personalities and progress of each dog, so if you see your pup featured on social media, there’s a good chance she took the photo! She is always working to grow in her role, continuing her education through certifications and expanding her knowledge in social media marketing and dogs!