About Me
I’ve spent my life working with animals, with a strong focus on dogs and behavior. From volunteering in shelters and rescues to working hands-on with fearful, high-drive, and behaviorally complex dogs. I’ve gained experience with a wide range of temperaments and training needs.
My background in rescue and service dog work gave me the opportunity to see both ends of the spectrum: from dogs struggling with reactivity and stress to highly stable, task-trained working dogs. This experience shaped my balanced, individualized approach to training, focused on clear communication, structure, and helping both dogs and owners succeed together.
My Training Philosophy
My training philosophy is rooted in patience, respect, and clear communication between dogs and their humans. As a balanced trainer using LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) methods, I tailor my approach to each individual dog’s learning style while focusing on building trust, confidence, and understanding. I believe dogs should be taught not only what not to do, but also how to make better choices through guidance and consistency. Never fear or force. My goal is to help dogs and owners build a strong relationship that creates lasting, real-world results while still allowing dogs to be dogs, not robots.
Positive Reinforcement
Adding something the dog enjoys to increase desired behaviors.
Examples: treats, praise, toys, affection, or play.
+R
Negative Reinforcement
Removing pressure or discomfort when the dog responds correctly.
Examples: releasing leash pressure or spatial pressure.
-R
Positive Punishment
Adding a consequence to decrease unwanted behaviors.
Examples: verbal corrections, leash guidance, or interruptions used fairly and appropriately.
+P
Negative Punishment
Removing something the dog wants to reduce unwanted behaviors.
Examples: withholding attention, stopping play, or removing rewards when inappropriate behavior occurs.
