Hearth and Hounds

Hearth and Hounds is a dog training business in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, run by Susan Spinks. Susan holds the Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) credential. They are a member of the Pet Professional Guild, whose members commit to training without shock, prong or choke collars. Services listed include private lessons.

At a glance

• Trainer: Susan Spinks
• Credentials: CPDT-KA · PPG member
• Approach: Positive reinforcement (reward-based)
• Services: Private lessons
• Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina

Why it matters for French Bulldogs

Flat-faced breeds can struggle to breathe under neck pressure, so vets commonly recommend a harness rather than collar corrections for French Bulldogs. Reward-based trainers work without leash pops, prong or shock collars, which keeps the airway out of the lesson. Read our force-free French Bulldog training guide.

Sources: the Pet Professional Guild member directory, checked October 2026. Credentials from the Pet Professional Guild directory are as the trainer lists them. Services and prices change, so confirm directly with the trainer before you book.