Chrissy Neumyer Smith MGBS, MCS, CBCC-KA, CPDT-KA, CPG, FFCP
About the Instructor
My journey in grooming and training began in 1986 during a high school internship at a boarding kennel. I was captivated by the groomers’ work, spending my lunch breaks watching them and staying after hours to observe training classes. This early passion led me to graduate from Essex Agricultural and Technical Institute’s Animal Science program in 1989, where I gained hands-on experience with a wide range of animals.
After completing a grooming apprenticeship in 1992, I further refined my skills as a veterinary technician, gaining valuable insights that continue to shape my grooming and training approach today. Always ahead of the curve, I embraced house call grooming and training services, launching Happy Critters in 2000. I specialize in working with “little behavior cases”—helping anxious and fearful dogs overcome their challenges with patience and skill.
In 2018, I took my passion for education to the next level by launching the Creating Great Grooming Dogs podcast, bridging the gap between grooming and training. This platform has allowed me to share my expertise with a broad audience, leading to speaking engagements at grooming expos and a 2024 Barkleigh Honors award nomination. Expanding my reach further, I joined The Knowledgeable Pet Owner podcast in 2024, bringing valuable insights to both pet owners and industry professionals.
As Dean of Academics at the Whole Pet Grooming Academy and an Educator for the Master Groomer Behavior Specialist Diploma Program, I am dedicated to mentoring the next generation of professionals. I thrive on collaboration, constantly expanding my expertise through continuing education and working alongside other industry leaders.
Outside of my professional life, I compete in Flyball with my Border Collies, Brok and Po, who have proudly earned their Iron Dog titles and are now enjoying their well-earned retirement. Whether working with dogs or teaching others, I see dog training as a logic puzzle and grooming as an art—two disciplines that blend beautifully when approached with understanding and skill.
MasterGroomerBehaviorSpecialist.com
