Thinkers Dog Training

FAQs

• What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

  I'm a certified professional dog trainer through the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers. I am constantly attending workshops and seminars around the country to learn new and improved ways of helping dogs.

• How did you get started doing this type of work?

  I made the decision to pivot from teaching to dog training 5 years ago. I was first introduced to behavior modification techniques in the classroom where I worked as a special education teacher for high school students who had emotional and behavior disorders. I discovered how to identify effective reinforcers and how to apply the reinforcers consistently to maintain, shape, or change the students’ behavior. My strategies were exceptionally effective and I quickly discovered a passion for the process of behavior modification. My background in teaching special education has helped me tremendously with the communication skills and empathy required to be a successful dog trainer. During this time I also adopted my first dog from the city shelter, and began applying the same behavior modification strategies to his training. Through his training I realized the joy of effective communication between humans and canines and decided to make the change from two legged students to four legged students.

• What types of customers have you worked with?

  I love working with all kinds of dogs with all types of behaviors. I spent a few years working in the local shelters so I have experience working a wide range of behaviors. My speciality and focus is working with puppies. I love helping owners gain confidence in their abilities to successfully raise their puppies to be happy, confident, and relaxed dogs. My puppy training covers the basics like potty training, crate training, and socialization. I also love covering more advanced techniques with owners like: how to reduce mouthing; how to prep your puppy to be successful at the vet and groomers; and how to teach boundaries (and your puppy feel good about them!)