What training methods do you use, and how are they different?

I use balanced training methods, which means I teach your dog both what to do and what not to do. That includes using rewards like food, praise, and play to reinforce the good stuff. And clear feedback or consequences for behaviors that aren’t safe, respectful, or welcome.

What makes my approach different is that it’s not just about obedience cues. It’s about creating a clear language between you and your dog so you can actually communicate with them, and they can understand how you need them to behave. 

Every training plan is customized to your lifestyle, your goals, and your dog’s unique needs. Sure, obedience is part of it—but that’s just one piece of the puzzle. We will also work on behavior modification, lifestyle tweaks, and integrating predictable routines into your life to make good behavior almost second nature for your dog.

What training tools do you use?

I generally use prong collars, e-collars, slip leads, and food rewards.. When used correctly, these tools are safe, effective, and humane. 

For example, a prong collar evenly distributes pressure around the neck, allowing a handler to easily communicate with their dog with a leash. The prongs are blunt, not sharp, and make teaching new behaviors and giving information with a leash much more effective. 

E-collars (like the Mini Educator) use a gentle sensation similar to a TENS unit in physical therapy.  Once a dog is conditioned to an e-collar, it can be used to communicate with a dog in any situation, ensuring off-leash reliability, safety, and effective corrections. Whatever training tools or protocols we end up implementing, my goal is always to establish and maintain a consistent and reliable language between human and dog. I’ll show you exactly how to use each tool so you feel confident and your dog feels supported.

Do you guarantee results?

I don’t believe in sugarcoated promises. Your dog’s success depends on your commitment, consistency, and follow-through. There are no magic pills for dog behavior, and anyone who claims otherwise is lying to you. The good news is I have never had a dog who failed to make incredible progress when their owner is willing to put in the work. What I can guarantee is this: you’ll get a clear, personalized training plan with step-by-step guidance and support. I’ll coach you through it, explain the “why” behind everything we do, and stick with you through the entire process. Any struggle or setback you face, you will face with my support. I will help you in any way that I can to achieve the results you want with your dog. 

Should I choose private lessons, day training, or board & train?

It ultimately comes down to you and your lifestyle. 

Private lessons are great for motivated dog owners who have the time and discipline to be consistent in implementing gradual changes. You will be largely responsible for the early teaching stages of the training program, and will have more homework than the other options. 

Board and train programs, on the other hand, are much more intensive. You will typically only learn about the final stages of the training program. In other words, I will take care of all the training, then guide you on how to use and enforce the training system, and how to integrate it into your life.

Day training programs are a nice marriage of the two. 

Most behavioral issues can be accommodated in any program. 

I usually recommend that you follow your gut about which program will work best for you. But you don’t have to decide now! Reach out. I’d be happy to discuss it with you and help you decide which option is the best fit for you and your dog. 

What’s a typical day like during board & train?

Any dogs staying with me for a board & train program follow a structured daily schedule focusing on obedience training, physical and mental exercise, and their unique behavioral issues. The structure focuses more on our routines and how we do things than on specific times of the day. 

The day starts with potty breaks and breakfast. After a bit of downtime to digest, we will get into the main part of our day. While the daily schedule varies, I aim to do roughly 2-3 hours per day of individual training sessions focusing on obedience commands, duration and mindset work, socialization, and behavioral modification. In the evening, the dogs have dinner and an evening walk prior to being kenneled for the night. 

In addition to this general framework, I also aim to do field trips and outings with dogs staying with me, but these aren’t a daily occurrence. 

They get plenty of movement, downtime, and feedback throughout the day. It’s immersive but balanced. And you’ll see it all through regular updates.

Can I check in while my dog is with you?

Absolutely. I send regular updates so you can see exactly what your dog is working on and how they are doing. You’ll get full transparency and an open line of communication.

Got questions? Just ask. I’m always happy to talk through what’s going on.

Do you work with fear, aggression, or reactivity?

Yes—this is one of my main specialties. I help dogs with reactivity, fear, anxiety, and aggression every week. These aren’t easy issues, but you can make amazing progress with the right plan and structure.

We’ll build a realistic program that keeps everyone safe and gives your dog better tools to navigate the world.

Note that if your dog is human aggressive or has issues with strangers, you will need to do some preparation work prior to starting your training program, such as conditioning your dog to a muzzle. 

What’s my role during (and after) training?

Your role is crucial. Training is a communication system between human and dog. Consistent communication (or lack thereof) creates the relationship dynamic between you and your dog. In other words, training doesn’t “stick” without your consistency at home.

If you choose private lessons, that means practicing between sessions. If your dog is in board & train, it means showing up for your weekly lesson, practicing over the weekend, and continuing to follow through and uphold your expectations once your dog is home long-term. I’ll coach, guide, and support you, but I can’t move in with you. You ultimately have to be the one your dog follows, listens to, and looks to for guidance.

Do you train puppies or senior dogs?

Both! I work with puppies starting at 8 weeks old in private lessons, and dogs 5 months or older in board & train. No matter your dog’s age or behavioral problems (reactivity, aggression, separation anxiety, etc.) I’ll meet you where you are and build a plan that works.

What are your payment options?

I take all major credit cards and offer PayPal’s “Pay It Later” option. If you need a custom payment plan, just reach out—I want to make quality training accessible for owners who are ready to do the work.