Helping Dogs Shine
Brighter
About Constellation Dog Academy
Constellation Dog Academy proudly offers compassionate, science-based training for dogs and their humans throughout Philadelphia and Montgomery Counties. Our philosophy is simple: training that emphasizes partnership over control leads to lasting behavior, stronger bonds, and a happier life with your dog.
We take the time to understand who your dog is—their needs, quirks, strengths, and motivations—and build training plans that let them shine.
The result? Training that not only works, but feels good for both ends of the leash.
Our Core Values
Fair and Respectful Training
We believe all dogs deserves kindness, patience, and respect. Our force-free approach focuses on trust, choice, and clear communication to help dogs and people thrive together. By meeting each dog where they are, we bring out their best and strengthen the bond that makes them family.
Joyful and Individualized Care
Every dog has their own story, and we honor that uniqueness in every session. Our certified trainers create personalized plans that fit each dog and family, using joyful, compassionate methods that make learning a positive experience. We celebrate progress, nurture confidence, and build lasting partnerships rooted in trust.
Proven Science-Based Training
Our work is guided by science and grounded in a genuine love for dogs. Every Constellation trainer is certified or actively pursuing certification through trusted positive reinforcement programs. We learn, share, and grow together to ensure every dog benefits from the most effective and humane training methods available.
Meet our team of Dog Experts
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Audrey Culp
Owner and Lead Trainer (CPDT-KA)
Audrey’s passion for dog behavior began in 2007 at the PSPCA in Philadelphia, where she interned and assisted training with classes before becoming a lead trainer in 2011. She continued building her expertise while working with other local training companies, leading classes, private lessons, and developing curricula.
An honors graduate of Animal Behavior College’s Dog Training Program (ABCDT) and CPDT-KA certified since 2015, Audrey credits most of her education to the thousands of dogs she has worked with over the last 15 years. She specializes in helping dogs with behavioral challenges like reactivity, aggression, and separation anxiety - always using positive, choice-driven, and force-free methods.
Audrey lives in Germantown with her husband, daughter, and two dogs, Inu and Toast. Her mission is to use training as a way to mend relationships, build confidence, develop shared languages, and foster joy.
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Hannah Silvis
Trainer
Hannah has been working with dogs professionally since 2016, beginning as an apprentice with a positive-reinforcement company in NYC. There, she assisted in puppy and adult classes, shadowed private sessions, and helped run a public playgroup—building a strong foundation in reading canine body language and facilitating safe, fun interactions. She also pursued coursework in animal behavior at Hunter College and volunteered at the Thinking Dog Center, deepening her knowledge of cognition and learning.
After moving to Philadelphia, Hannah joined Constellation Dog Academy in 2021 and has been part of the team ever since. Her relationship with her retired racing greyhound, Breezy, inspires her holistic approach, which considers each dog’s health, enrichment, and emotional needs. A Fear Free Shelter Program graduate, she volunteers locally and is currently working toward CPDT-KA certification while continuing her education in force-free training.
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Amanda Morell
Trainer (KPA-CTP)
Amanda’s curiosity about animal behavior began on her grandparents’ farm and deepened while studying Biology at Temple University. Her training journey started in 2020 after adopting Mochi, a 15-week-old Blue Heeler mix rehomed due to behavioral concerns, which led her to explore force-free, science-based training methods.
Inspired by Mochi’s transformation, Amanda continued her education and graduated with distinction from the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training and Behavior in May 2025. As a Certified Training Partner, she follows the KPA Pledge to teach with compassion, use positive reinforcement, and uphold the highest standards in humane, science-based training.
Fluent in English and Spanish, Amanda is passionate about helping pets and their people thrive together. Guided by empathy, patience, and curiosity, she brings a calm, encouraging energy to every session. When not in Fishtown, she and Mochi enjoy exploring trails and spending time outdoors.
Our Certifications
Our Certifications
Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner
The KPA-CTP is awarded by the Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior, a leader in force-free, science-based training. Trainers complete extensive coursework and hands-on assessments to demonstrate their skill in using positive reinforcement effectively. For you, this means your dog learns in a safe, fun, and rewarding way that strengthens your bond.
Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed
The CPDT-KA is awarded by the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers, the leading independent organization in the profession. To earn it, trainers must pass a rigorous exam that proves their knowledge of humane, science-based methods. This certification provides peace of mind, knowing our trainers are held to the highest standards and committed to ongoing education.
Animal Behavior College Certified Dog Trainer
The ABC-DT is earned through Animal Behavior College, a program that combines coursework with hands-on training in the field. Students gain experience working with professional trainers and volunteering at local shelters. We feel its important that our staff has both academic knowledge and real-world practice working with dogs in many environments.
Fear Free Certified Professional
The Fear Free Certification is awarded through the Fear Free program, which focuses on improving pets’ emotional well-being. Trainers are educated in techniques that reduce fear, anxiety, and stress during training and care. This means your dog’s emotional needs are always respected, creating a safe and supportive training experience.
Why Certification Matters
Dog training is an unregulated field, which means anyone can call themselves a trainer without formal education or experience. At Constellation Dog Academy, we choose certification because we believe in holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards.
Here’s what certification means for you:
Trainers must log real-world experience before being eligible
Certification requires passing rigorous exams on humane, science-based methods
Continuing education ensures we stay current with the latest research
Trainers uphold a professional code of ethics
Our team is also proud to be affiliated with AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), IAABC, and Philadelphia Ethical Pet Professionals.
Looking for
the Right Direction?
Every dog is unique, and the support they need is too. Let’s find the approach that makes life smoother and more enjoyable for both of you.
