Why I Follow A Reward-Based Training Philosophy 

Many potential clients or fellow trainers will come to me and ask, “What kind of trainer are you?” or, “What type of training methods do you use?”

First and foremost, I am a certified, professional trainer and behavior specialist. I am a dog trainer that believes in science and canine psychology, and by that, I mean I am a balanced dog trainer that acknowledges and incorporates the quadrants of operant conditioning. I am a dog trainer but I am also an owner trainer, making sure that the owner is educated and understands how to handle their own dog, and maintain a consistent structure that the dog can continuously thrive in.

My techniques are reward-based. This does not mean I simply bribe dogs with treats, though I do like to use them occasionally and utilize a lot of positive reinforcement. But the treats is not used to completely modify the dog’s behavior. What makes a dog change is a consistent regimen, backed by solid leadership from the owner, and through exercises that aim to set the dog up for success.

Some trainers will create situations where the dog is tested and where the dog is set to fail. This is used to teach the dog and have them learn new behaviors. I do not follow this…I want to set the dog up for success so that any negativity is minimized! I believe constant negative instruction where there is no chance to win and be rewarded will ultimately shape your dog to become more nervous and only behave out of fear. You may get the behavioral results you want, but do you really want a scared dog that only behaves because they think you are going to yell at them or hurt them? I believe in a Decisions, Not Dominance motto, where we want to teach the dogs to make better decisions, and they do it because they want to! Because it ends with reward and with a happy family all around!

If you are wondering if I am the right trainer for your dog, give me a call at 800-649-7297, and we can assess the behavioral situation and I will discuss in greater detail what I can offer for you and your dog. But know this – I aim to work with you until your goals are met, and all the training will customized to you and your dog. It will be reward-based and it will teach your dog the joys of being an obedient dog!