It starts with you.
My training style is science-backed, effective, and compassionate. With a balanced training approach, my focus is always on a dog’s overall wellness.
I believe that all good dog training begins with owner education, followed by obedience training. In certain cases, applying therapeutic techniques for dogs struggling with fear, anxiety, aggression, or trigger responses is needed to get to the root of “bad” behavior. In looking at all elements of the overall picture, we can create meaningful change that lasts. You and your dog will be changed for the better.
Owner Education
Often after our first lesson, my clients say, “You’re not really training the dog, you’re training me!”
All dog training requires owner education, but the up dog philosophy puts owner education first. To modify our dog’s behavior, we have to make changes to our own behavior.
Lessons begin with addressing any human behavior that may be causing confusion or contributing to anxiety for the dog. The goal is simple — change the way you communicate with your dog so you can understand each other, strengthen your bond, and enjoy your dog more than ever.
Owners struggling with fear and anxiety are often contributing to the fear and anxiety of the pets they live with. Don’t worry, we can work together towards a calmer, stress-free future, one step at a time.
Dog Therapy
More than just dog training, the up dog approach aims to work at the root of the issue. Many unwanted or aggressive behaviors stem from fear. Whether your dog is the cowering-in-the-corner type or the barky, lungey, nipping type, we’ll take a therapeutic approach to help you and your dog overcome the anxiety and live a fuller life.
Lessons will include desensitization, counter conditioning, and calming practices to help you and your pup be more at ease around triggers.
Obedience Training
AKA Communication that Makes Sense to Humans and Dogs
All dogs and their owners benefit from obedience training. After all, it is the foundation of how we communicate with our dogs.
For wild, unruly, or excitable pups, obedience training teaches them manners and how we’d like them to act around other people and dogs. Often, they really don’t know our expectations.
For nervous, reactive, or aggressive dogs, obedience is a major part of the behavior modification process as we teach them new habits and help them navigate stressful situations.
All up dogs will learn verbal commands and leash skills in their lessons as we create a communication common ground.
up dog 