FAQs
Where are you located and what areas do you visit?
I am based in Frederick, Maryland. I will travel to surrounding areas including Jefferson/Brunswick, Walkersville, Thurmont, Hagerstown and Mount Airy. Depending on your location, there may be a small travel fee. Please reach out with your address and I can let you know if you are in my service area!
What is your educational background? What certifications do you hold?
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and another in Psychology. While my education was focused on assisting humans, all of the learning and behavior theories I learned are applied in the field of dog training.
I have been training for eight years and hold my CPDT-KA certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers. This certification requires a minimum of 300 hours experience as a trainer and passing an exam. I am Fear Free Certified and an AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator. I have completed the Aggression in Dogs Master Course through Michael Shikashio, which provides over 23 hours of education on different topics including resource guarding, dog-dog and dog-human aggression, and how to safely break up a dog fight. I am also a member of the IAABC. I frequently participate in online dog conferences and classes with a focus on behavioral modification.
What training methods do you use?
I use only modern, science-based positive reinforcement methods. This means that I do not use aversive tools such as prong collars or e-collars, physical corrections such as leash pops, or any other punishment-based training methods. My training methods aim to be as force-free, fear-free, and choice-based as possible for your dog. Part of my CPDT-KA certification is adhering to a set of ethics and guidelines, including practicing LIMA (least intrusive, minimally aversive). You can learn more about LIMA here.
Why don’t you use training tools such as prongs/ecollars/chains? These methods worked for my dog!
Punishment-based training and training tools such as prong collars, choke chains, and e-collars work by utilizing negative reinforcement and positive punishment. This means that your dog is actively working to avoid certain feelings (such as a leash jerk or e-collar stimulation) during training. This can lead to many issues, whether it is learned helplessness, redirected aggression, or worsening anxiety.
There are many studies that highlight the potential risks of using punishment and aversive tools in training a dog. I believe that it is our job as trainers and guardians to set our dogs up for success. This means managing our environment, not putting our dogs into situations that they cannot handle, and holding ourselves responsible for mistakes in training.
If you are looking to move away from these training methods, please reach out! I am always happy to assist in helping you find other ways to train your dog.
What equipment do you utilize for training dogs?
It is my goal to find equipment that your dog is comfortable with that will also fit your needs. My general preference is a well-fitted, non-restrictive harness and a non-retractable leash. I am a fan of hands-free leashes, but this is completely personal preference.
Other equipment you may find me using includes flat or martingale collars (for safety), gentle leaders/haltis (for specific needs), and long lines (15-25ft typically). I do utilize clicker training based on owner preference. A treat pouch is not required, but strongly recommended!