Dedicated to Transforming Lives—One Dog at a Time

My Pack Leader Training Philosophy: Safety, Science, & Structure I don’t rely on a one-size-fits-all method. Each dog is unique, and my approach is based on canine psychology, clear boundaries, and stress-free learning. Allow me to explain my theory; My journey into dog training began with watching "The other end of the leash" on tv. Brad Pattison left a real impression on me. My trainer Tony Parker, a renowned master trainer and behaviorist, who worked globally and consulted on legal cases regarding aggressive red-line dogs, reintroduced me to operant conditioning, and even though I found his techniques a bit harsh at times, he was a brilliant behaviourist and taught me a lot. Luckily, my class dog Buck was a quick learner, allowing me to use gentler methods. I’ve adapted elements of operant conditioning and blended it with pack leader skills for greater fluidity, by using language and communication that resonate with dogs. While modern dog training emphasizes positive reinforcement (force-free training), and still argue with me that packs don't exist, leadership is just a power trip, and alpha dominant techniques are aggressive and cruel, refuse to see the truth, and that is; there is no aggressive or harmful pain delivered when a dog is dominated. Since birth, dogs have been dominated by either the mom or the top dog in the litter, hence the term alpha and runt. Dogs are controlled by someone higher up in the hierarchy. It's only when they come to live with humans, who lack good common sense and leadership skills, that they experience total freedom without direction or limitations. And what ends up happening to most of them? Abandonment and being dropped at shelters by the age of 2, because they can't fix what they have created. And most dog trainers can't even help them, because treats have no real value to them any more. It's shameful and intolerant. That's when they come to me for help. Dogs bullying other dogs are the ones being dominant, and if ignored, that behaviour will become dangerous for someone. The one putting that dog in it's place is the one protecting everyone else and ensuring the dog won't end up in a shelter or worse, put down. And that's a trainer with operant conditioning skills, not afraid to put that dog in its place. And knows how to do it without destroying the dogs spirit. Leadership is direction. Treat training is simply bribing and love bombing. And dogs know it! And my idea of the early stages of their introduction to domestication is to be lead gently and kindly, but with assertive energy. just like a dog would do it. Consistency is key. It is to ensure the puppy never entertains the idea of stepping out of line, or becoming so afraid of having no protection in their world that they have to become reactive to everything because their owner is weak. Fight or flight seems the only option, but when stuck on a leash that is not an option. When attached to a weak owner, dogs will resort to reactive behaviours because of fear. Fear because they can't get away and have no one protecting them. Understanding the different training methods helps clarify why trainers select specific tools. There are old school training steps, and if done incorrectly will have negative effect on dogs and their psyche. No dogs should have to suffer pain and humiliation. In operant conditioning dog training, mastering these four quadrants is the secret to clear communication with your dog. Modern dog training heavily emphasizes R+ and P- (often called "force-free" or "positive reinforcement" training) because they build trust and trigger Jaak Panksepp's SEEKING and PLAY systems. But you can't leave out the 2 other parts of the quadrant if you want balance. Negative Reinforcement - Pro: Establishes clear boundaries, providing a reliable " switch" for behaviors. Positive reinforcement Pro: Utilizes low-intensity guidance instead of harsh corrections. Con: Timing is crucial; mismanagement can inadvertently punish good behavior. Con: Prolonged use can lead to anxiety in dogs because they can't figure out what you want. Positive Punishment - Pro: Delivers quick results for dangerous behaviors by adding an unpleasant consequence to make a behavior happen less often. Pro: Effectively stops unwanted actions. Negative Punishment- You remove something the animal wants to make a behavior happen less often. (e.g., Taking away a toy because a puppy is biting too hard) Con: May create fear without teaching alternative behaviors. Con: Can lead to increased aggression if not handled properly. I believe that in some cases there is a need for real old school approaches, and if you are starting out with a puppy, there is no need to use most of these old school techniques. I created a program that merges both approaches into a force-free training system utilizing sound, touch, body blocking, and effective communication. You'll even learn how to growl effectively, without being aggressive!  Pack Leadership Pro: Body blocking establishes ownership of space and provides clear boundaries, providing a clear "switch" for behaviours. Pro: Utilizes our bodies without sound, like dogs do, to own and to remove a dog without harsh corrections. No con here because it is delivered slowly and without sound or eye contact, so it allows the dog to 'think' and make a decision on what to do, again, without harsh correction. We want the dog to make the decision to submit. No con here either, because it is not delivered in a harmful or aggressive way, so leaves dog calm and submitting to the more dominant and calm body.  *From the Webster Dictionary for the word 'Dominant'. The word "dominant" is defined as "more important, strong, or more noticeable than anything else of the same type." It can also mean "ruling; governing; prevailing; controlling; predominant.​ ​An example that I see often in the pack is the higher ups in the hierarchy of the pack will want a spot to lay down, be it on the couch or a pet bed. He will just walk over and stand, not looking at the dog, making no sound, and perhaps moving a bit closer after a short time. The dog on the bed or couch will start looking around, looking a bit confused at first but then figures out that it should get up and move. The dominant dog takes the spot. There is no pain or mental distress in the younger dog, and it teaches the dog to respect the pack and the leaders, and learns its place in the hierarchy of the pack. Now isn't that what we want from our dogs in the family? Respect is a two way street. If we deliver leadership with love, respect and kindness, our dogs will mirror that behaviour with us and will become the best family dog ever. We don't yell, BARK, toss rock bottles at them, yank on their leash, force them to wear torture collars or muzzles, or love bomb the dog, sounding like a squeak toy or dying mouse, and act weak with the dogs. All these things will cause the dog to distrust and disrespect you.  If you are struggling and all your attempts at training your dog have failed, you should give us a call so I can come out to see you and help you get back on track with your dog. If for some reason you can't come in due to mobility or geography, I offer 'Virtual Therapy Consultations', so check that out below. I always say "the hardest one to train is the human", but that does not mean we can't change our own behaviours.  And the best part of this training is seeing "the lightbulb moment" happen, when they realize their approach has been futile. So be one of the wise ones, and look for a new approach.