About SMART DOGS Dog Training & Behavior Consultation

Force-free training in Van Buren

SMART DOGS is a dog training and behavior practice in Van Buren run by owner Mary A. Gilbreth, Ph.D., a Certified Professional Dog Trainer who describes herself as "an avid clicker and positive reinforcement trainer." Her motto is better behavior at "BOTH ends of the leash," and she sums up the approach as "No pain. No fear. No force." She cites "25+ years experience" across dogs, cats, behavior and wellness, and says she was the first trainer in Arkansas to earn a CPDT.

Programs

All new students start in Life With Dogs, a small group class that meets once a week for one hour over eight weeks, with online video tutorials and coaching by phone, text and email between sessions. From there, SMART DOGS offers dog sports such as agility, freestyle, obedience, parkour, rally and Treibball, therapy dog training and testing, and behavior modification for aggressive, anxious or fearful dogs. Other topics include cooperative care for grooming and vet visits, early puppy socialization, canine fitness and nutrition, and online classes are available too. Spring 2026 is full, and owners can join a waiting list for summer dates.

What owners say

One Greenwood client wrote that the bond with her dog "would never have been as close without Mary's guidance," adding that Mary "has the patience of a Saint."