About Sean Rivera
Sean Rivera: Head Trainer, Owner
From a life-changing K-9 internship to 35 years of professional dog training, Absolute Canine builds confident, well-trained dogs for families, sport, and law enforcement.
Get certified expert advice
17+ years
experience
First Free Evaluation
100% of Dogs We Board Have Trained with Us
A Tailored Plan for Every Case
3–4 Dogs per Trainer
Free Evaluation
100% of Dogs We Board Have Trained with Us
A Tailored Plan for Every Case
Serving Bucks County and surrounding areas since 1996
17+ years experience
About Absolute Canine
About Sean Rivera
The birth of my professional career began with an important phone call. The call came from the chair of the Criminal Justice Department during my junior year at The College of New Jersey. The Chair asked me if I had interest in doing an internship with New Jersey State Police K-9 Unit as part of a requirement for graduation.
My answer was simple, where and when do I get started. From an early age, I loved dogs and knew this was a once in a lifetime opportunity. Working closely with Lieutenant and Police K9 handler Anne Marie Grant, I completed the internship. Shortly after, I started my own business as a professional dog trainer.
I am the founder and CEO of Absolute Canine, a full service dog training company located in New Hope, PA. We have successfully serviced our community, dog sport professionals and enthusiasts, as well as law enforcement for over 25 years!
About Sean Rivera
Accomplishments & Highlights
I am currently competitive in the sport of IPO. Some of my highlights include:
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17+ years experience in IPO dog sport
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Graduate New Jersey State Police K-9 Unit Intern Program
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Training director, Trial & Training Helper, Police K9 Instructor
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3x IPO Handler Owned Trained
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North Eastern Regional Championship Helper Front Half (1999)
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2x New England Regional Champion (2008, 2009)
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4x Consecutive AWMA IPO3 National Championship High Female (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010)
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2x Vice National Champion H.O.T AWMA & WDC (2009, 2012)
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AWMA Vice National Champion 2009
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8x World Team Qualifier FMBB & FCI (2009-2013)
Real dogs. Real results.
Watch our Training in Action
Training clips that show the results in motion.
Our Team
Remarkable Achievements and Standout Moments
Dog training accomplishments and highlights encompass the significant achievements and standout moments in a dog trainer’s career. These achievements demonstrate the trainer’s expertise, dedication, and ability to positively impact both dogs and their owners.
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5x World Team Member FMBB & FCI (2011-2013)
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AWMA National H.O.T. Champion 2011
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4x World Team Member FMBB & FCI (2011-2012)
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FMBB Nieuwpoort, Belgium World Championship 5th Overall (2011)
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FMBB Rocca Priora, Italy World Championship 6th Overall (2012)
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FH1 100 Points Alpha K9 Schutzhund Club 5/27/2012
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In 2012 received the highest IPO Obedience score (99 pts) of any competitor in the past 20 years.
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FCI Zalaegerszeg, Hungary World Championship 13th Overall (2012)
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FCI Zalaegerszeg, Hungary World Championship High Obedience in Trial – 99 points
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AWMA National H.O.T. Champion 2012
Testimonials
See Why Dog Owners Trust Us
Every transformation we achieve starts with trust. Here’s what dog owners share about their experience with Absolute Canine.
“We knew we wanted a well-trained dog, and Absolute Canine made that possible. They were clear, professional, and incredibly effective throughout the process.”
Edward Z.
Client
Edward Zwilling
Client
Melissa Shubert
Client
“From the moment I met them, I felt comfortable moving forward. They were open, honest, and gave me the confidence I needed to proceed.”
Neil O.
Client
Our Team
Meet Our Team of Certified Dog Experts in PA
Other Team Members
At Absolute Canine, our passionate trainers bring years of elite experience and endless respect for dogs to each session.
30+ years
Sean Rivera
Trainer
8+ years
Amanda Rivera
Trainer
4+ years
Jessica Brawn
Apprentice Trainer
Trusted for Over 25+ years
Rated 5.0
Every Dog Deserves an Education
Every dog deserves more than obedience. They deserve an education. Start early, build trust, and raise a calm, well-mannered companion who belongs at the heart of your home.
Trusted Dog Trainers
Frequently Asked Questions
Before You Book: Key Questions Answered
We know choosing the right training program is a big decision. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from dog owners.
Have a different question?
If you don’t find the answers you’re looking for here, contact us.
5.0
from 200+ reviews
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What happens in the free evaluation?
We meet your dog, discuss goals/challenges, assess fit, and recommend the right program with clear next steps and timeline. -
What training approach do you use?
Balanced, humane, operant-based training with a clear marker system—rewarding what we want and fairly interrupting what we don’t. -
Do you use tools like prong or e-collars?
Only when appropriate for the dog and goals, and always with owner consent and coaching. Tools are introduced thoughtfully and phased as skills grow. -
Do you work with reactivity or aggression?
Yes—case by case. We start with safety and management, set realistic milestones, and progress as your dog is ready. -
Will my dog forget me during a board & train?
No. Your bond isn’t replaced. We include owner transfer sessions and a maintenance plan so behaviors stick at home. -
What skills do you teach?
Engagement, heel/loose-leash, sit/down/stay, place, recall, calm greetings, and household manners; advanced tracks add off-leash reliability. -
How do you choose between private lessons, day school, and board & train?
After the evaluation we match your goals, schedule, and your dog’s temperament to the program that delivers reliable results fastest. -
When can we start training (puppies/adults)?
Puppies can begin foundations as soon as they’re home and cleared by your vet; adult dogs can start anytime after evaluation. -
What’s included after training?
Owner transfer coaching, a written maintenance plan, and access to follow-up support or refreshers as needed. -
How is pricing handled?
We share pricing after the evaluation along with a tailored plan—no surprise add-ons. We’ll outline deposits, schedule, and next steps in writing.
