In the quiet hills of Northwest Arkansas, there’s a place where leash tugs turn into tail wags, and canine chaos melts into calm. Welcome to Zen Dog Training NWA, where dogs and humans alike find their groove—and it’s all thanks to the passion of one determined woman, Lola
Run by local dog-whisperer-in-chief Lola, Zen Dog is more than just a training service. It’s a safe space where dogs learn to listen, people learn to lead with heart, and everyone comes out more connected than when they started.
A Life Led by Dogs (and a Little Destiny)
Lola didn’t always plan to be a dog trainer. In fact, she was once on the road to becoming a neurosurgeon. But life threw her a curveball when her daughter was born with spina bifida—and she followed her instincts toward something she already knew she was great at: connecting with animals others couldn’t.
Her first job as a teen was scooping poop at a kennel. But even then, something clicked. The dogs who were too scared or aggressive for others? They trusted her. She started training informally at 15, and by the time her daughter was born in 2009, Lola turned that passion into a full-time career.
Now, with nearly 25 years of hands-on experience, she’s one of the most respected names in dog training in Northwest Arkansas—and for good reason.
“It’s literally been my life’s work,” she told us. And it shows.
Training With a Heart (and a Brain)
One of the things that makes Zen Dog stand out is Lola’s approach to training. It’s called LIMA, short for Least Invasive, Minimally Aversive. That might sound technical, but the heart of it is simple: build trust, communicate clearly, and avoid fear-based methods.
Yes, Zen Dog uses tools like e-collars—but these aren’t the harsh “shock collars” from back in the day. They’re more like the gentle buzz of a TENS unit, the kind used in physical therapy. It’s just one more way to give dogs a little nudge that says, “Hey, I need your attention now,” without causing pain or panic.
It’s all about meeting dogs where they are—and helping their humans do the same.
Mission Service Dog: Training with Purpose
As if running a thriving business weren’t enough, Lola is also reviving her nonprofit, Mission Service Dog. This deeply personal project provides service dog training for two groups close to her heart: children with disabilities and combat veterans.
Inspired by her own daughter’s journey and her husband’s military service, Lola hopes to have Mission Service Dog fully relaunched by the end of the year. If you’re looking to support a cause that truly makes a difference in our community, keep this one on your radar.
Real Support, For the Long Haul
One of the coolest things about Zen Dog Training? They don’t just train your pup and send you on your way. They offer what Lola calls “behavior insurance.”
Once your dog completes the program, you’re welcome to come back for follow-ups—anytime, for the life of your dog. New behavior cropping up? Life getting hectic? No problem. Lola’s team is there to support you, without any surprise charges.
“We call it behavior insurance. Once you’re part of our program, we’re here for the life of your dog—no matter what pops up. It’s about trust, support, and helping families thrive.”
— Lola, Zen Dog Training NWA
No Pressure, Just Possibilities
If you’re the kind of person who likes to feel things out before making a big decision (hi, fellow overthinkers 👋), you’ll appreciate this: Zen Dog offers free one-hour consultations. You and your pup get a no-strings-attached session to see how the training feels, get a quote (good for six months), and ask all the questions your dog would ask if they could talk.
No pushy sales tactics. No guilt trips. Just a friendly conversation and a chance to see if it clicks.
Balancing Business with Big Hearts
Running a business has its challenges—especially when your coworkers bark and your clients chew furniture. But Lola finds joy in the chaos. “Love what you do and you’ll never work a day in your life,” she laughs. That joy is contagious, whether she’s on the Bentonville Square filming a Facebook reel or wrangling her own four-dog pack.
Want to Meet the Team?
📍 Located in Bentonville, AR
🌐 Check out the website
📱 Follow Zen Dog on Facebook
💬 Free consultations available—because every good relationship starts with a conversation
Whether you’ve got a feisty Fido or a skittish Scruffy, Zen Dog Training might just be the calm in your storm. And with a heart like Lola’s behind it all, you know your dog’s in good paws.
