For Penelope Scott-Fox, training dogs isn’t about commanding obedience—it’s about building trust.
As the founder and owner of Scott-Fox Training in Pasadena, Scott-Fox brings decades of experience, including 18 years as head of behavior at the Pasadena Humane Society, to her individualized, straightforward approach to dog training. She specializes in obedience and nose work, and also runs a beloved Puppy Preschool for dogs ages 8 weeks to 6 months.
“No two dogs are the same, and neither are their people,” Scott-Fox said in a recent interview. “There’s rarely anything actually wrong with the dog. Most of the time, it’s just a matter of helping the owner understand how to be consistent, confident, and clear.”
Scott-Fox’s approach centers on teaching humans to be better partners to their pets—by offering structure, affirmation, and well-timed play. Her clients praise the effectiveness of her methods and the depth of her expertise. Some newcomers, however, may find her direct British style surprising at first. She acknowledges this with characteristic honesty.
“I sometimes use expressions that catch people off guard,” she said with a lighthearted laugh, “but it always comes from a place of wanting to communicate clearly. My goal is to share what I believe will truly help—because at the end of the day, it’s all about doing what’s best for the dog.”
Her results speak for themselves. A certified nose work competitor with high-level detection titles, Scott-Fox is a founding instructor in the national scent detection training movement. She trains dogs of all breeds and ages, from eight weeks to 16 years, using nose work to build confidence and engagement.
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of dogs from all walks of life,” she shared warmly. “Whether purebred or mixed, each one deserves the opportunity to thrive with their people—and that’s what I’m here to support.”
In addition to her group programs, Scott-Fox offers behavior consultations and one-on-one training—especially valuable for owners of rescue dogs or those with specific behavioral challenges.
She approaches each training relationship with honesty and mutual respect. “If I sense that my methods may not be the right match for an owner at that moment, I share that openly,” she said. “It’s not about turning people away—it’s about honoring their investment, their time, and most importantly, their dog’s well-being.”
With a reputation for results, a record of service to the Pasadena community, and a heart devoted to dogs of all stripes, Penny Scott-Fox continues to shape not only better pets, but better partnerships.
“Dog training,” she said, “shouldn’t be about control. It should be about connection.”
Scott-Fox Training, 600 W. Woodbury Road, Altadena. (626) 375-5550. scott-foxdogtraining.com.
