Meet Our Lead Trainer: Ruth Haugan, Certified Professional Trainer (CPT)

With a passion for dogs and a dedication to excellence, Ruth Haugan, Certified Professional Trainer (CPT), brings over a decade of professional dog training experience to Whole Dog University, LLC. Ruth has successfully trained countless dogs and their owners, helping families create stronger bonds with their canine companions.

Originally from Minnesota, Ruth has lived in the Ohio Valley and Southeastern United States since completing her master’s degree in Sports Medicine in 1989. After founding Whole Dog University in Tupelo, Mississippi, in early 2011, Ruth relocated to Lebanon, Ohio, at the end of 2016 to be closer to her family. Known as Warren County Ohio’s “Canine Educator” to many, Ruth has trained more than 1500 dogs (and counting) first in Mississippi and now in Ohio--- dogs of all ages and a diversity of breeds—helping them become the best version of themselves and helping their pet-parents achieve their training and behavioral goals for their canine companions.

Now settled in historic Lebanon, when Ruth is not educating dog owners and training dogs, she helps care for her elderly mother, enjoys time with family in the area, enjoys her own dogs and cat, and spending time with fellow believers who share her faith in Yeshua / Jesus.

Professional Preparation and Affiliations

Ruth's journey to becoming a dog trainer is rooted in both passion and professional excellence. Before transitioning to dog training and canine leadership education, Ruth had a 22-year career in sports medicine as a NATABOC Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), retiring from the field in late 2009.

She took her lifelong love and respect for dogs and elevated it to a professional level by completing an in-residence program at the prestigious National K-9 School for Dog Trainers in Columbus, Ohio. Earning her certification in 2010, Ruth has since specialized in a variety of training disciplines, including:

• Basic Obedience
• Advanced Obedience
• Behavior Modification
• Early Puppy Development
• Tracking
• Scent Detection
• Retrieval (Soft Mouth)
• Assistance (Service) Dog Training

Ruth is also a Professional Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals and a member of the National K-9 Dog Trainers Association, staying connected with the latest advancements and best practices in the field through continuing education from multiple resources.