The first step in our booking process is scheduling an initial consultation. During this 60-minute Zoom call, we will: Assess your dog's behavior history: We'll discuss the challenges you're experiencing and identify your training priorities, creating a list of clear goals to work towards. Implement management & safety strategies: I'll provide immediate strategies to reduce the frequency of undesirable behaviors, giving you some immediate relief. Provide practical tips: I'll offer 2-3 practical tips to address your primary challenge or frustration. Explain our training methods: I'll explain the positive reinforcement training methods and techniques we will use during our sessions. Recommend a training program: Based on our discussion, I'll recommend a training program tailored to equip you with the skills necessary to achieve your dog training goals. After the consultation, you'll choose and purchase the recommended training program that best fits your needs. Our training programs include: Puppy Programs (under 20 weeks at start date): These programs cover positive reinforcement training, setting up and managing your puppy's environment, socialization, crate and potty training, handling “naughty” puppy behaviors, and starting foundation behaviors. Our comprehensive option also includes manners training and support for the adolescent period. Manners Programs (5 months and older): Designed for older puppies and adult dogs, these programs focus on essential manners training, addressing common behaviors such as jumping, pulling on the leash, and ignoring commands. Reactive & Fearful Program: These specialized programs are tailored for dogs who exhibit reactivity or fearfulness. We'll work on building confidence, reducing anxiety, and managing triggers to help your dog feel more comfortable and secure. Once you've chosen and purchased the appropriate training program, we'll book your first training session. This marks the beginning of a supportive journey towards a well-behaved and happy dog. Ready to get started? Book your initial consultation today and take the first step towards a happier, better-behaved dog!

I want you to be successful, so it’s essential for me to thoroughly understand your dog and your training needs. Meeting virtually is an ideal way to achieve this. During the consultation, I will ask detailed questions about your dog's behavior and history. With my extensive experience in conducting these consultations, I can effectively assess your dog's behavior based on your observations and descriptions. These consultations require a lot of discussion, and meeting virtually minimizes distractions from your dog, allowing us to focus on the conversation. This approach enables me to create a tailored training plan that addresses your dog's unique needs and your specific situation. Once we move forward with a training program, the actual training sessions will be conducted in person, ensuring hands-on guidance and support for you and your dog.

Choosing the right training program for your dog depends on several factors, such as the behaviors you'd like to work on, your dog's age, and their unique needs. We can determine the best fit during an initial consultation. Here are the three main types of programs we offer: Puppy Programs (under 20 weeks at start date): These programs focus on positive reinforcement training, setting up and managing your puppy's environment, socialization, crate and potty training, handling naughty behaviors, and starting foundation behaviors. Our comprehensive option also includes manners training and support for the adolescent period. Manners Programs (5 months and older): Ideal for older puppies and adult dogs, these programs address essential manners training, tackling common behaviors like jumping, pulling on the leash, and ignoring commands. Reactive & Fearful Program: These specialized programs are designed for dogs who show reactivity or fearfulness. We'll work on building confidence, reducing anxiety, and managing triggers to help your dog feel more comfortable and secure. To find the most suitable program for your dog, please book an initial consultation. This will help me understand your dog's needs and recommend the perfect training plan. To learn more about our programs and get started, visit the following pages: Please contact me directly if you have any questions or need further assistance.

Private training offers a range of benefits tailored specifically to you and your dog's unique needs: Accelerated Learning in a Controlled Environment: Private lessons can speed up your dog's learning process because they take place in a familiar, comfortable setting with minimal distractions. We gradually introduce new distractions at a pace that suits your dog's progress. Flexible Scheduling: Private sessions offer more flexibility, as they can be scheduled at times that are convenient for you, rather than adhering to a fixed class schedule. Customized Training Plans: Based on the initial consultation, I will develop a training plan that is tailored to your dog's needs, allowing us to focus on the particular behaviors or challenges that require attention. Direct Support: You receive personalized attention and ample time to address your questions and concerns, ensuring you have a thorough understanding and a highly effective training experience. In-Depth Troubleshooting: Private lessons provide the opportunity to thoroughly explore and address any challenges you're facing with your dog, without the time constraints of a group class. Now, are you wondering whether to enroll your dog in private lessons or group lessons? From my experience, most dogs benefit greatly from private lessons. The personalized attention they receive in these sessions ensures that training is specifically adapted to your dog's unique needs, which often leads to quicker and more effective learning. Dog training is not just about teaching your dog; it's equally about educating you, the dog guardian. Private lessons provide a focused environment that is ideal for learning and practicing new techniques. These sessions offer detailed instruction, empowering you to understand and implement training methods confidently. For reactive or fearful dogs, private lessons are particularly advantageous. In these one-on-one settings, we can concentrate on building your dog's confidence and reducing their anxiety without the distractions of other dogs or external noises. This focused approach helps create a calm environment that is perfect for your dog to make substantial progress. My training programs are built on years of experience with a diverse range of dogs and their families. Each program is designed to address common training needs, yet they are flexible enough to be tailored to the specific circumstances of each individual dog and family. This customization ensures that we achieve the most effective and lasting training outcomes.

I use scientifically proven, positive reinforcement, reward-based training methods. I believe that training should be fun, humane, and effective, and I am proud to never use fear, pain, or force. Scientific studies have shown that reward-based training is the most effective way to train dogs. The BC SPCA advocates for the use of force-free, humane training techniques that utilize evidence-based learning theories, fostering trust and building positive human-animal relationships. Our dogs are constantly learning, and it is our job as their guardians to set them up for success and help them understand what we want. I use food, toys, play, and real-life rewards to motivate your dog and gain their willing cooperation. By using positive, science-backed training techniques, I build skills on both ends of the leash, promoting a lifelong, adventure-filled friendship between dogs and their humans. I am dedicated to helping you strengthen your relationship and improve your dog's behavior, ensuring a harmonious and fulfilling companionship.

Treats are a highly effective tool in dog training because they serve as a strong motivator and reinforcer, providing immediate positive reinforcement for desired behaviors. Most dogs are very food-driven, making treats an excellent way to capture their attention and focus during training. By using treats, training sessions become enjoyable and rewarding for your dog, building a positive association with learning. While praise and petting can also be effective, many dog guardians overestimate their value in training. For most dogs, these forms of affection are nice but not compelling enough to encourage behavior change and can sometimes be distracting if the dog is engaged in another activity. Treats, however, are typically more motivating and effective in reinforcing desired behaviors.

The duration of the training process varies based on several factors. My training programs are structured with a specific number of sessions to provide you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to confidently work with your dog. These sessions also provide ample time for you to practice the training exercises with your dog and receive feedback from me. However, dog training is an ongoing journey without a fixed timeframe. Factors such as your dog's age, prior learning history and genetics, your commitment and consistency in following the training recommendations, and environmental factors all influence the process and outcomes. I prioritize setting realistic expectations and supporting my clients throughout the entire training experience to achieve long-lasting results.

Opting for a multi-session training program is highly beneficial for several reasons. Behavioral change takes time; it involves replacing old habits with new desired behaviours, which requires patience and consistent reinforcement. Dogs, much like humans, require time to learn and internalize new skills effectively. A multi-session approach allows for a gradual learning curve, ensuring that your dog not only learns but retains these skills over the long term. The success of training also relies heavily on your skills and consistency as the dog's guardian. Multiple sessions provide the opportunity for you to refine your techniques, better understand your dog’s unique needs, and gain confidence in managing various situations. Our programs are designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to support and improve your dog's behaviour over time. Through my programs, I provide comprehensive support, including ongoing guidance, check-in texts between sessions, and recommendations for helpful tools, ensuring that you and your dog continue to progress and thrive together.

Due to the many variables in dog training and behavior modification, we cannot guarantee specific results. Every dog is unique, with their own personality, temperament, and learning style. Some dogs may pick up new behaviours quickly, while others may require more time and patience. Successful training also relies heavily on your commitment and consistency as the dog guardian. Environmental factors and specific behavioral issues can further influence outcomes. In cases where dogs present with specific behavioral issues, such as aggression, general anxiety or separation anxiety, guaranteeing results becomes even more challenging. While I will work diligently to address these issues and provide you with behaviour modification strategies, progress may be slow, and setbacks can occur. In some cases, complete resolution of the behavior is not possible. In these instances, our focus may shift to managing the behavior and ensuring the safety and well-being of both your dog and those around them. Our ultimate goal remains to help your dog reach their full potential. While I do not guarantee specific training results, I can guarantee: · Stellar Customer Service: I prioritize clear communication, timely responses, and a supportive experience for every client. · Customized Approach: Each dog's training plan is tailored to their unique needs and the goals of their guardians. · Commitment to Excellence: I strive for the highest standards in my training methods and client interactions. · Ongoing Continuing Education: I continuously update my knowledge and skills to provide the most effective and humane training techniques. My focus is on providing you and your dog with the best possible support and guidance, ensuring a positive and enriching training journey. By approaching training with realistic expectations, dedication to ongoing learning, and a focus on progress and collaboration, we can work together to help your dog reach their full potential and strengthen the bond you share.