My training approach centers on positive reinforcement, utilizing rewards like food, play, interaction, and access to motivate and reinforce your dog, while also providing clarity and structure, for both species. I treat each dog and human as unique individuals, applying my extensive hands-on experience and knowledge of scientific learning theory and ethology to tailor my methods. My training is not a generic, “one size fits all” approach.

I adhere to LIMA principles—starting with least invasive, minimally aversive strategies—to effect behavior change. While I most closely identify with the positive reinforcement-based trainer label, that term only refers to one of the 4 learning theory “quadrants”, (positive reinforcement) which doesn’t fully represent how learning theory works in practice.

Together, we will devise creative ways to manage and modify the environment and antecedents (events leading to problematic behavior) to encourage the desired behavior. We’ll teach and reinforce differential behaviors that are incompatible with or alternatives to the problem behavior. We’ll prevent your dog from reverting to old habits while fostering new behavior patterns and guide them back to appropriate behavior when necessary. Additionally, and most importantly, we’ll explore alternative outlets for their behavior. For example, if your dog has a strong herding instinct that’s coming out in a socially unacceptable way, like chasing cars or skateboards, we might use a Collieball to channel that instinct into a controlled game, reducing unwanted behaviors.

I’m all about setting realistic expectations for clients, so if you have concerns about your dog’s potential, we’ll discuss them in our first session. Although there’s flexibility and many opportunities for learning, factors like genetics and early learning history can limit what you and your dog might achieve. I’ll give you my honest opinion based on experience to help determine realistic expectations. In terms of motivators, each dog is unique. We’ll collaborate to identify what drives your dog and use those reinforcers effectively to achieve the best results.

I have been working professionally with dogs and clients since 2010. Before then, I gained experience by walking dogs, working in multiple doggie daycare facilities, and volunteering at Animal Haven, as well as with rescue groups to foster dogs. If you’d like to know more about my background and experience, check out my full resume and additional information about me here.

You don’t need anything except you and your dog to get started! We might discuss different types of walking equipment, toys and treats, but as with everything, there isn’t a one-size-fits all recommendation and I’ll be helping you determine what might work best for your dog in your specific situation.

Yes. After nearly 15 years of working professionally with dogs, I feel competent triaging nearly any type of case or behavior issue. However, for some cases, including serious predation cases or inter-dog household aggression, I might refer you to a colleague or trainer who specializes in those areas. Similarly, while I do work with separation anxiety, I also may refer to a specialist, depending on the situation.

Here are some of the problems I can address:

• Aggression towards people or dogs
• On-leash reactivity
• Specific fears or phobias
• General anxieties
• Territorial or possessive aggression
• Leash walking, including pulling or planting
• Scavenging behavior
• Handling aggression or fears
• Puppy and adolescent training

These are within my expertise, and I’m ready to help you and your dog with these and similar challenges.

Don’t see your issue here? Book a free 15 min call and let’s chat!