Meet Our Team
Cindy Caldwell-Certified Dog Trainer
I’ve always believed dogs are a gift from God. When we truly connect with them, life feels calmer, happier, and more fulfilling. Helping others build that special bond is what I love most—the same joy I get every day from our two rescue dogs, Jaxon, a 4-year-old multi-breed, and Kaia, a young Rottie-Pittie mix.
My love for animals started as a child. Growing up in a family of seven, convincing my parents we needed a dog wasn’t easy—but I was determined. They finally relented, with one condition: it had to be a collie as well-behaved as Lassie. That’s how Sir Lancelot (Lance) came into our lives. Training him felt natural, and he became the loyal, obedient, loving companion every dog owner dreams of.
Over the years, our family has shared life with a variety of dogs—purebred and rescued—plus cats, ferrets, gerbils, hamsters, reptiles, and even a skunk. Today, our children are raising their own families, each with their beloved pets.
After retiring from pastoral ministry, I turned my focus to dog training. Working with my own reactive dog, Jaxon, I learned firsthand how patience, understanding, and thoughtful training can transform a dog’s behavior and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.
I’m now an ABC-certified trainer, dedicated to helping dogs and their humans build happier, calmer relationships. Together, we can tackle jumping, barking, door-dashing, leash-pulling, ignoring calls, reactivity, and other frustrating behaviors—so your dog becomes the well-behaved, trusting companion you’ve always dreamed of. Lessons are tailored to your goals and can take place in your home or out in the community.
Jaxon-Canine Assistant Trainer
Hi there! I’m Jaxon, a four-legged member of the Smart Paws Academy training team. My story began in the winter of 2021 somewhere in the hills of West Virginia, before I found my way to a shelter in Ellicott City, MD. When my family adopted me at six months old, I was sweet and full of energy—but I was also pretty scared of… well, lots of things: Cars, people, other dogs—you get the picture. I didn’t know how to feel safe, so I barked and lunged at just about anyone who came too close.
With a lot of patience, high hopes, love, and plenty of behavioral training, I’ve grown into the calm, confident, people-loving dude I am today. I’m still a bit of an introvert (big noisy crowds aren’t really my thing), but I love helping out in training sessions, showing other dogs how to walk nicely, greet politely, and stay cool in public.
My journey with fear and reactivity inspired my human to learn more about canine behavior and become a certified professional dog trainer. Pretty cool, right? I’ve taught her a lot about dogs, about patience, and even about herself.
When I’m not working, you can find me shopping at pet-friendly stores, taking long walks with my peeps, tracking rabbits, doing fun tricks in the yard, or chilling with my favorite toys. I’m proud to be part of the Smart Paws team, and I can’t wait to meet you (and your pup)!
Mac Caldwell-COO
I share Cindy's lifelong love of dogs; the connection we feel with these gifts from God is undeniable, and I believe God created them as one means of connecting with God and knowing Him better. I can’t imagine life without dogs.
I am privileged to serve as COO, helping Cindy bring her expertise and love of dog training to our community. As a certified StoryBrand Flight Plan Business and Life Coach, I’m able to bring my gifts to bear as we offer this much-needed service to folks who desire to live their best lives together with their beloved pup.
Kaia—Canine Assistant Trainer
Hi! I’m Kaia, the junior member of the Smart Paws training team—and proud Rottweiler-Pitbull mix!
My story started almost 2 years ago under a backyard shed somewhere in West Virginia, where I was born with my two brothers. It was dark and kinda scary at first, but then a kind foster mom showed us that sunshine, people, and belly rubs are amazing. By the time I was 12 weeks old, I found my forever family—and I’ve been spreading joy, laughter, and flying fur ever since.
I’m what you might call a “bull-in-a-china-shop” kind of gal—full of love, energy, and enthusiasm. If you stop by, just a friendly warning: my tail has been known to clear a coffee table in one swoosh.
My favorite part of being on the Smart Paws team? Helping other dogs feel calm and confident! I’ve got a knack for putting nervous or reactive pups at ease—something about my happy-go-lucky energy just makes them relax. I can roughhouse with the big dogs, tiptoe with the little ones, and always know when someone needs a gentle approach.
When I’m not helping out at training sessions, you’ll find me chasing tennis balls, catching Frisbees mid-air, or zooming through my backyard tunnel like a pro athlete. I love going new places, meeting new people, and learning new games.
Can’t wait to meet you and your pup—I promise to bring the wiggles, the smiles, and maybe a little extra slobber.