Packleader Academy:
Expert Puppy & Adolescent Behaviour Training in Surrey BC

My Pack Leader Training Philosophy: Safety, Science, & Structure I don’t rely on one-size-fits-all methods. Each dog is unique, and my approach is based on canine psychology, clear boundaries, and stress-free learning. You’ll receive personal attention, as I handle every training session myself and offer virtual consultations for those unable to attend in person. My journey into dog training began with Tony Parker, a renowned master trainer and behaviorist who worked globally and consulted on aggressive red-line dog cases. He introduced 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 Lab Buck was a quick learner, allowing me to use gentler methods. I’ve adapted elements of operant conditioning and pack leader skills for greater fluidity, by using language and communication that resonate with dogs. While modern dog training emphasizes positive reinforcement (force-free), and still argue with me that pack life with dogs don't exist, leadership is a power trip, and alpha dominant techniques are aggressive and cruel, they refuse to see the truth, and that is; there is no aggressive or harmful pain delivered when a dog is dominated. Since birth, they have been controlled by someone higher in the hierarchy. It's only when they come to live with humans who lack good common sense they experience total freedom without direction or leadership. And what ends up happening to most of them? Abandonment and shelters because they now can't fix what they have created. It's shameful and intolerant. 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 this dog won't end up in a shelter. Leadership is direction. Treat training is simply bribing. And dogs know it! And the whole idea of the early stages of their introduction to domestication is to lead gently and kindly, but assertively, is to ensure the puppy never entertains the idea of bullying, needing to protect a weak owner or become so afraid of having no protection in their world that they have to become reactive to everything.  Understanding the different training methods helps clarify why trainers select specific tools. Here are old school training steps and if done incorrectly will have negative effect on dogs and their psyche. ​ Negative Reinforcement - Pro: Establishes clear boundaries, providing a reliable " switch" for behaviors. 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. Aversive Punishment - Pro: Delivers quick results for dangerous behaviors. Pro: Effectively stops unwanted actions. ​ Con: May create fear without teaching alternative behaviors. Con: Can lead to increased aggression if not handled properly. I don't want to throw the baby out with the bath water, and I believe that in some cases there is a need for real old school approaches, but if you are starting out with a puppy, there is no need to use most of these old school techniques if you start out right. 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, 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 up 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 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.