I have 25 years of experience working with some of the most difficult cases trainers face. I am certified with International Association of Canine Professionals. Additionally, I am a certified AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. I spent three and a half years at UALR learning about primates and behavior as an anthropology major, hold a pet nutritionist certificate, and these can be seen in my photos.
I’m a canine behavior consultant and specialist, adept at solving all your dog’s behavioral problems. My methods are kind, rooted in canine communication, and will NEVER include physical punishment or redirection. I have written books about behavior and aggression for my students.
***FULL TRANSPARENCY IN PRICING - $125/hour or $475 for a package that includes five 1-hour training classes, one toy for your dog, free lifetime support for the dog(s) that includes phone or email consultations, and no pressure to take additional training classes. Most issues can be resolved in the five classes. I have fantastic results with this package. If you have questions, reach out and I'm happy to provide more details or even refer you to previous clients for references. I provide you with written and video performance review and instruction, as well.
*** I do not work with choke chains, pinch collars, or any methods that cause pain. Very limited use of electronic collars in cases where it is a safety concern for the dog.
*** I have 25 plus years of dog training and handling experience. I worked for a veterinary clinic BEFORE becoming a dog trainer, I also have trained service dogs for people with physical and emotional needs, and I've been around animals of all sorts for my entire life.
Aggression issues are oftentimes misunderstandings we humans have. Growling isn’t always aggression, it's just another way for a dog to communicate. Punishing growling can lead to a dog that becomes a silent biter who has given up trying to communicate. This is dangerous, and I caution against working with anyone who tells you to “ put your dog in its place” for growling—they obviously do not know how to handle aggression properly! The wrong person can make the issue worse, so really get to know the trainer and ask a lot of questions before hiring them!
I love the moment that the light bulb goes on, and you know they GET IT—owners and dogs. I also love the smiles on owner's faces when they understand their dog for the first time and they start working together! When the dog learns something right in front of them, the astonishment of the owners is just great to see. I love helping to put those smiles on their faces and the wags in the dog tails!
Follow me on TikTok @ShambalaDog for tons of great videos, tips, and giggles.
Dawn
