My Path to Becoming a Dog Trainer
I really love dogs. In this business, everyone should love dogs. But for me, dogs are everything!
As a young girl, my parents let me have all kinds of pets – birds, hamsters, cats – I loved them all. But it was our family dog that stole my heart.
Years later, as a young adult, I got a Bouvier Des Flandres named “Bear.” Bear taught me about patience, discipline, and how a treat could make a bad day better!
Back then, dog training was all about being the boss. But Bear and I were both sensitive, so that approach didn’t work for us.
MY JOURNEY TO R.O.O.T.S.™
I started my career using traditional training methods—teaching
dogs to “sit,” “stay,” and “come” through repetition and correction.
And it worked… sort of.
Dogs learned the behaviours. But something was missing. I saw
fear in their eyes. Hesitation. Confusion. Owners were frustrated
because behaviours would fall apart outside of training sessions.
Then I discovered relationship-based training, and everything changed.
When I shifted my focus from compliance to connection—from
controlling behaviors to understanding their causes—I saw dogs
transform in ways I’d never witnessed before.
They weren’t just obeying. They were trusting. Choosing. Partnering.
That’s why I created the R.O.O.T.S.™ Framework—to give every dog
owner what I wish I’d known from the beginning: training that
strengthens your bond instead of breaking it.
[Read more about the R.O.O.T.S.™ approach →]
My Journey in the Dog World
Years later, I had a family of my own. I jumped into the dog world professionally by starting a dog walking and boarding business. This job allowed me to meet many different dogs with various behaviors, but a few things always stayed the same:
No matter the dog, I found that using rewards made my days with them easier.
The pet parents I worked with faced similar challenges. They struggled to find time and consistency to train their dogs, especially with busy daily lives and sometimes kids running around.
Then, I met Client X. She had just welcomed a new puppy into her life, and she already had an older dog and three teenagers to deal with! This puppy was causing chaos. Client X had recently gone through a divorce and thought a puppy would help, but she wasn’t prepared for the craziness.
I decided to expand my services to assist her. We worked together to teach the puppy good manners and behaviors, making him a balanced and happy part of their family. I’m excited to say that he still is today! Client X was overjoyed to have her life back on track.
My Simple Six-Step Puppy Training Plan
Dealing with clients like Client X inspired me to create my Six-Step Program. Most pet owners face challenges when it comes to finding time and handling all the training needed for their dogs. After lots of trying things out (and working with tons of dogs!), I figured out a way to make it easier for pet parents. It was so fulfilling that I sold my dog-walking and boarding business to focus on this full-time. By following my straightforward Six-Step Program, you’ll achieve what you want – a well-behaved pup. Let’s get started! 🐶🎓
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How It All Works:
I assist my clients by helping you see things from your dog’s perspective – imagine stepping into their paws!
We work together using positive reinforcement techniques that both you and your dog will enjoy. It’s all about helping you and your furry friend communicate effectively.
By the end of it all, you won’t just have a well-behaved pup. You’ll also have a deeper understanding of what motivates your unique dog, what makes them happy, and what frightens them. This way, you can all live your best lives together! 🐾🌟
Are you prepared to take the step toward a life filled with mutual happiness and tranquility, both for yourself and your cherished dog? Enroll with us to experience a harmonious and fear-free partnership.