What We Believe

Welcome to Grounded Roots. Here, we believe that a self-aware, calm dog is a truly healthy, happy, and enjoyable companion to have around. Our mission is to prioritize and advocate for the well being of our four-legged friends, and teach owners how to bring out the best in their pets. At Grounded Roots, we don't only teach dogs fun things like obedience, tricks, and sports. We make it a priority to show you, the owner, how to assess the mental well-being of your pup, and teach them to remain calm and focused in various environments. We understand that just like humans, dogs have emotional needs that deserve attention. Through customized training, care, and education, you will learn to understand what your dog is communicating, and how to respond in ways that facilitate connection and understanding between you both.

Isabelle Martin

(She/Her)

Founder & Lead Trainer

CPDT-KA, Fear Free, & ABCDT Certified Trainer

Isabelle has been training animals for over five years, and although dogs have always been her main interest, she has also worked closely with horses, promoting the use of positive reinforcement in the equestrian field. Isabelle decided to turn her passion for dogs into a profession in 2019. She attended and graduated from Animal Behavioral College, then partnered with Austin Pets Alive!’s Behavior Program to rehabilitate shelter dogs with severe behavioral and medical needs. She then continued her education and received her CPDT-KA and Fear Free Certifications before branching out and founding Grounded Roots. Isabelle is now educating people-dog teams all over Central Texas on how to build stronger, more satisfying relationships with each other through training. Isabelle owns two dogs - Toad, a lovable mutt who got lucky enough to be picked up by the right car on a rainy day, and Matcha, a deaf and special needs rescue that she saved from euthanasia.

You are the most important member of your dog’s team. Thank you for being here! That being said, we are excited to introduce ourselves and join your team in creating a fun, relaxing connection with your dog that lasts a lifetime.

Welcome to the Team!



Toad Martin

Good Boy Certified Trainer’s Assistant

Toad has been working to help build confidence in other dogs since he first came into Isabelle’s life, and now specializes in making other dogs feel safe around him during training with his playful, easy-going attitude, and his gentle spirit.