Labels can be helpful — and they can also be limiting.

I am a positive reinforcement–based trainer, which means I believe positive reinforcement is the most effective way to influence behavior while protecting the relationship we have with our animals. I do not use aversive tools or corrections.

For me, the most important questions in any training plan are:

1. What happens when my dog does something right?

Your dog is set up to succeed and rewarded for making good choices. Rewards might include food, toys, movement, access to something they enjoy, or social interaction.

2. What happens when my dog does something wrong?

In the moment, we step in as guardians — removing the dog from a situation they aren’t ready to handle. In the bigger picture, “mistakes” mean we’ve asked for something beyond the dog’s current skill level. That’s information, not failure.

3. Is there a less invasive way to solve this?

Often, yes. I’m committed to ongoing education and to using the least invasive, most effective approach for each dog and family. What’s sustainable varies — not just between dogs, but between humans, too.

Training methods reflect what a program values.

When choosing a trainer, consider how they answer the three questions above — and whether those answers align with the relationship you want with your dog.

There are excellent trainers across many methodologies. You should always feel comfortable:

• Asking why something is recommended

• Expressing what will or won’t work for your family

• Advocating for your dog’s emotional wellbeing

Good training should feel collaborative, not coercive.

CBCC-KA — Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CCPDT)

The CBCC-KA credential represents advanced specialization in canine behavior consultation. To earn this certification, I demonstrated extensive hands-on experience working with complex behavior cases, including fear, anxiety, aggression, and reactivity, and passed a rigorous examination covering:

• Learning theory and behavior modification

• Assessment of aggressive and fearful behavior

• Case management and client coaching

• Ethics, safety, and welfare-centered decision-making

Behavior consultants differ from general trainers in that our work goes beyond teaching skills. Much of behavior work focuses on:

• Understanding why behavior is happening

• Modifying emotional responses, not just outward actions

• Adjusting environments and expectations

• Supporting the human side of behavior change

This certification reflects my commitment to working thoughtfully and safely with dogs whose challenges are rooted in stress, fear, or unmet needs — and to guiding families through those challenges with clarity and care.

CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CCPDT)

CPDT-KA certification means I’ve:

• Completed extensive hands-on teaching and coaching hours

• Passed a comprehensive written exam on learning theory, behavior, and training

• Committed to ongoing, vetted continuing education

• Agreed to pursue the least invasive, minimally aversive approach available

Fear Free Certified Professional (FFCP) certification reflects training in reducing fear, anxiety, and stress during training, handling, and care.

In addition, I’ve completed advanced coursework in dog aggression and family-dog dynamics.

Continuing Education Goals

Over the next year, I plan to:

• Progressing my own training knowledge with mentorship from Sarah Stremming of The Cognitive Canine

• Complete Treat & Retreat certification with Suzanne Clothier

• Complete my Predation Substitute Training certification with Simone Mueller

• Continue expanding my work with anxious, fearful, and reactive dogs

No, and I believe it would be unethical to do so.

Dogs are individuals. Behavior is shaped by genetics, emotions, physical health, environment, and learning history. These factors can not be fully controlled.

What I do guarantee:

• Thoughtful, evidence-based skill building

• Clear communication and honest feedback

• A training plan rooted in your real life

• Ongoing support as you and your dog grow together

Training is a process, not a finish line - and success looks different for every family.

The first and most important step is listening.

A Guidance Call allows us to:

• Understand your dog’s behavior in context

• Identify immediate management changes

• Build a plan that fits your household

• Position you as the most relevant part of your dog’s learning process

Starting virtually also reduces pressure on your dog. Instead of learning that “training = exciting stranger with meatballs,” your dog learns that training happens with you.

After the session, you’ll receive:

• A personalized training webpage

• A clear plan for the coming weeks

• Ongoing updates based on your videos and feedback

From there, we can decide together how to continue.

Online learning offers flexibility, clarity, and consistency.

Self-led and virtual formats allow you to:

• Train when your dog is ready

• Revisit material as needed

• Avoid unnecessary distractions

• Learn at your own pace

I use online learning extensively with my own dogs and for my own continuing education — and when used intentionally, it can be incredibly effective.