Head Trainer

At that time, there was very little information about training puppies.   I was too young to read, but I wore out my dog books and figured out how to train my pup to be a good companion.  Growing up on the edge of suburbia, we had the opportunity to explore the woods, fields, and waterways. There was always a trust and understanding between us.  This was the beginning of a life-long, powerful connection with my canine companions and is the basis for my communication with every dog I have the honor to train. 

 

As an adult,  I was enamored with working line dogs and committed to my first, German Shepherd, who was intense.   He was bred for the sport of Schutzhund (German for protection dog). I quickly learned that  these high drive, high energy dogs needed lots of guidance to live in a household.   Puppyhood was hell.  Every waking moment was management, guidance and redirection.   As Hudson grew it was very apparent that he was a force of nature.  A big dog with a big attitude.  There was plenty of training, and many  hours building our relationship.   Hudson learned what was acceptable behavior and how to live in the hectic city of Los Angeles.

 

True to his genetics, Hudson was calm, stoic and always vigilant. The bond between us was unmistakable.  One day, he and I  were in the car, fighting through traffic when we had an altercation with a guy in another vehicle.  I pulled over to the side and watched as this guy jumped out of his car and headed towards us.  For whatever reason, he was mad, full of road rage.

Hudson was asleep in the back seat and I called for him as the guy arrived at my open window.  In an instant he let the stranger know, that in no uncertain terms, he was not to come any closer. His job done, he went back to sleep like his nap time was disturbed.  Me, I was a bit shaken but eternally grateful for his effort. He had my back.  The many hours of work to build our relationship had paid off. I was hooked. 

 

More recently, I had the great privilege to spend countless hours learning from some of the best dog trainers in the country.   On the weekends this dedicated group would gather to train their dogs.  These were mainly Malinois, Dutch Shepherds and German Shepherds.  Very serious dogs being trained to do what they were bred for.  I was very fortunate to be asked to join them and work with my dog.   By learning the  intricate details and minute adjustments needed to fine tune training, I became aware of the importance of clarity and timing when communicating with a dog.   It was an eye opener.  That  knowledge has been critical to help me improve the lives of so many dogs and their owners.

 

Over the years I’ve been to numerous seminars, earned many certificates and have enjoyed hands-on training with all kinds of dogs and owners.  Each time I learn something new that helps improve training with a future client.  I enjoy sharing my knowledge and love that moment  when ’the lightbulb goes on’ and a dog and their owner connect instinctively.

 

Locally, I volunteer and consult with Second Chance Humane Society.   I have trained rescue dogs; worked with staff and volunteers on safety protocols, handling and just having some fun to build confidence and relationships.   I’m also on their Board of Directors.   I’ve had the pleasure to work with the Telluride Humane Society, as well.  I’ve seen the passion and effort that goes into their rescues and love to help when I can lend my expertise. 

 

Through the 55 odd years I’ve spent training dogs, I have learned that the common thread to success is building a substantial bond and relationship.  The foundation of this bond is trust and understanding through clear communication, consistency and fairness.   Dogs are intuitive creatures and know how to read a human.  That’s what they are great at.  Our job is to develop similar skills and learn how to be a trusted partner for our dog.