I work with clients in a custom and personal way, for their dog and their lifestyle. I just don’t think a cookie cutter approach to working with dogs and their owners is as successful. There are so many factors in each household, and success depends on taking all into account. Breed needs, the specific dog’s learning abilities and background, family members, time availability, realistic approaches for all to be happy and be able to carry out and work on my suggestions.

I believe in choice training and use positive reinforcements; like food, owner praise/enthusiasm (most dogs love a cheerleader lol) and environmental rewards are great. I use a lot of games and focus exercises that are easy for all family members to practice successfully. With the right knowledge and focus kids are great dog trainers! Dogs learn very differently from how humans learn, so teaching them in ways that might work for you, doesn’t usually work for them. They do not arrive being indebted to us or have any knowledge of how to behave in our human world/home. It is amazing what one session can achieve. So it is best not to wait till you are at your wit’s end! Also I am NOT a “balanced trainer” meaning one who uses punishment and rewards. To me that is very confusing for a dog and can cause behavioral fallout. Best to really know what you can expect from a trainer before they arrive.

Dogs should love training, it should be fun and they should want to learn. Why? Because then life is much easier for them, they have the knowledge and tools to live in our world with us! Also training is entertainment for them, it is learning, challenging and exercises their brains. It allows them to feel successful. Along with quality food, loving care and shelter, and exercise; proper cooperative training is the best thing you can do for them! 

My goal is to teach you how to communicate better with your dog, so cues are understood and carried out promptly, and with reliability. Also if you understand your dog's communication, this can prevent such expressions as, "OMG, my dog has NEVER done THAT before." Learn what can lead up to the various "THATs." It is wise for children, especially, to learn dog body language.

If you are just living along with upsetting or annoying behaviors from your dog, let's help you and your dog!