Dog Training Philosophies

To be certified by the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers I basically swear an oath to follow what is called The Human Hierarchy combined with L.I.M.A (Least Intrusive Minimally Adverse). This basically means that there are humane methods to work with dogs and as a canine professional we must find the best for any situation as everyone is different and what a dog might need will vary greatly. Life and death situations are going to be gone about differently than basic obedience. In short, I will always do what is best for the dog and use positive reinforcement as much as is humanly possible.

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With this being said, my philosophy of working with dogs has evolved over time as I have worked with more dogs and became more knowledgeable of what they really need. My dog training philosophy starts with an appreciation for what dogs are, what they bring to our world, our society, and to our everyday lives. The world is a much better place because of dogs, plain and simple. Maybe it's for cuddles or service work, dogs are simply exceptional and magnificent. But sometimes they need help too and that is the reason why I have dedicated my life to helping as many dogs as I can, focusing on the behavior aspect of their lives. 

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I believe dogs are gifts in our world and we are so lucky to have them as part of lives. If it's detecting cancer or being a friend, dogs bring an attitude to life that all humans can learn and benefit from. From warning of medical attacks to making us laugh, dogs bring so much to so many and yet they are required to live by certain rules which are not of their making, they have no say in or are aware of. So it is up to us to make sure they can do that. 

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The rules are there for a reason, with our society dictating, for better or worse, that dogs cannot act in certain ways even though it may not be their fault. It does not matter if they were abused, starved, or had the best life possible. If they are aggressive, they can be killed because of it. If they jump and hurt someone, their family could be sued. The list goes on. In short, I am here for the dogs who are having problems, no matter the severity of the issue. To help them hopefully overcome and be able to function in our society positively. 

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I work with dogs in a myriad of ways depending on the situation. I am a staunch believer in positive reinforcement-based dog training, but understand things are not so black and white. By no way does this mean that punishment is what replaces it. It means we need to find what is going to work to help the dog by following the tenets of LIMA (Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive) & The Humane Hierarchy.

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I will always do what I think is in the best interest of the dog. 

And that means that they are able to be confident, care-free, and balanced.

It's getting there, that’s the trick. Sometimes that answer is exercise or providing a better environment. Othertime’s it can be relaxation techniques and massages.

I work with a dog to find what they need and how to supply that to them. And then helping their parents provide it in the best ways possible, in the most humane ways as possible.