Train with your dog, not against them.
Control the environment, not your dog.
Quick Links:
Understand your dog
The book “Meet Your Dog” introduces a comprehensive framework known as L.E.G.S. (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) to explain all four aspects of a dog’s behavior. When these are in balance, they work in harmony, but if not, they can create discord or disaster. This dog training book is a groundbreaking opportunity for dog lovers to fully understand their dogs, and form truly authentic relationships with them.
Choose the right dog training & dog trainers
SAFE is a simple set of principles that keep building a strong trusting bond with your dog at the foundation of your training.
I recommend people use SAFE when choosing the right dog training and/or dog trainers for their dog.
Find a positive reinforcement trainer who supports you AND your dog! Don’t let people label your dog as reactive, aggressive, anxious or fearful.
Learn the science
Amy Cook, Ph.D. is an expert on science-based dog training, and how play is a critical part of how dogs learn and navigate their worlds.
She is the most amazing dog trainer! She taught me the foundation I have built my own training on. Through the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy, where Amy is a teacher, you can learn from her as well.
Scroll down for video examples
What are these dog training resources for?
Watch this video about 2 San Francisco families with reactive dogs. See what happens when the dog training makes it worse.
There is so much pressure to have a “well trained” dog in San Francisco.
Many forms of dog training are outdated and damage your relationship with your dog.
Many people are told their dog is aggressive and needs corrections.
Many dog trainers focus on obedience, using harsh training methods.
If that’s happened to you, I’m so sorry!
I want to help you repair your relationship.
I’ve created this resource so you can learn more about modern science-based dog training.
As a resident of the Mission District of San Francisco, I understand how stressful it can be to just take a walk in your neighborhood.
But you don't have to be a dog trainer to support your dog.
Want to see some examples?
The right dog training is…
Playful
The science is simple — play is both the ingredient to a strong relationship with your dog, and the key to dog training in a positive, healthy way.
This clip introduces the game of “UP”, one of many games I teach as part of Gamify Your Walks. Don’t be fooled by its simplicity — games like this can transform how you and your dog navigate the world.
Safe
Your dog relies on you for their safety.
Be your dog’s bodyguard! When we can provide social support, we can significantly reduce our dog’s stress.
Watch this video to see how we can help our dogs thrive, not just survive.
Connected
Your dog’s ability to bond with you works in the same way young children form bonds with their parents.
When children have a “secure base”, they are able to freely explore their environment with confidence.
I want you and your dog to establish that same relationship.
What is it like?
Hear what the dog training journey has been like for others:
You and your dog are unique, but the tools to creating a rewarding healthy relationship are universal - they are a part of what makes us humans and them dogs.
Here are stories about other dogs who went on the journey to discover the dog training that was right for them.
