Coaching the Handler

Most trainers teach your dog. I teach you. You’ll leave every session understanding not just what to do, but why it worked, and how to carry that into every moment of your dog’s day. The goal isn’t a dog that performs for treats. It’s a dog that genuinely looks to you.

GSD sitting in front of the handler, looking up at attention.

Building the Foundation

Every dog starts somewhere, and we meet yours exactly there. Whether your pup is brand new to training or already knows the basics, we build on what they have, shaping real skills that hold up at the front door, in a busy park, and everywhere life actually happens.

Beyond Basic Obedience

A dog that sits on cue is nice. A dog that chooses you is something else entirely. Alongside the practical sit, down, stay, and recall work, you will learn how dogs actually learn, and use training, play, and everyday moments to build the kind of trust that makes that obedience stick for life.

Our Expertise

Training dogs started at age 10 for me. A retired military dog trainer, a stray dog, and a lesson I’ve never forgotten: that any dog, given the right relationship, is capable of remarkable things.

Over the next thirty years, that foundation grew into importing, training, and titling German Shepherds. Today I bring that same depth of experience to family dogs, because every dog deserves an owner who truly understands them.

Our Training Approach

Sessions are hands-on, high energy, and genuinely fun for your dog. We use markers, treats, praise, and play — but the real focus is on you learning to read the moment and respond with confidence.

No rigid scripts. No cookie-cutter methods. Just clear, consistent communication that builds a routine you can actually live with.

Training Fueled by Motivation and Play

Sessions are 45 minutes, once a week, held at a local park. That’s intentional. Training in the real world, around real temptations, is what builds a dog that actually listens when it matters.

I’ll teach you how to use your dog’s natural drive for toys, praise, and play as your most powerful training tool, so your dog isn’t just tolerating the work, they’re all in.

Home sessions are available upon request.

Is 1-on-1 Training Right for my Dog?

This program is perfect for puppies and young adults who are:
  • Full of energy with little idea what to do with it
  • Nipping, jumping, or pulling on the leash
  • Nervous or easily overwhelmed in new situations
  • Ready to learn the basics — sit, down, stay, come — or build on what they already know
  • In need of an owner who finally feels confident and in control

This program is built for puppies and young dogs, typically under two years old. If your dog is older, reach out anyway. Drive and willingness matter more than age, and we’ll figure out together if it’s a good fit.

All dogs must have a current Rabies vaccination.

Before we begin, we’ll meet for an in-person evaluation to assess your dog’s temperament, motivation, and program fit. The $100 evaluation fee is credited toward the program upon enrollment.

Not sure which is the better fit? We’ll talk through both options during your in-person evaluation and figure out together what makes the most sense for you and your dog. The $100 evaluation fee is credited toward the program upon enrollment.

Every dog is evaluated individually. For training to be successful, your dog needs to be able to accept treats or play as a reward in an unfamiliar outdoor setting. Highly reactive or anxious dogs are often better suited for our Board & Train program. Severe aggression may require a different approach altogether.

Sessions are held at Abernathy Greenway Park or a similar park setting. Home visits are available upon request for an additional fee.

Come prepared with high-value treats, your dog’s favorite toy, and their regular collar and leash. The more motivated your dog is, the more we can accomplish together.

Life happens, and I’m happy to reschedule when needed. To keep momentum and get the best results, we ask that all 5 sessions be completed within 10 weeks of enrollment. Training packages are designed as a complete program and are not eligible for partial refunds.

Yes! Short daily practice is a big part of the program. Expect 5 to 15 minutes of structured exercises between sessions. Consistency between our meetings is what turns new skills into lasting habits.

We train primarily with treats, play, and praise, especially with young puppies. For dogs that need additional structure, a pinch collar may be recommended on a case-by-case basis. We do not use e-collars.


Investment

Price: $600 for a 5-session course.

Details: Includes everything you need to build a real foundation.
Program graduates receive a permanent 20% discount on boutique home boarding for life..

Train the Dog. Coach the Human. Change Everything.

Tell us a little about you and your dog, and we’ll be in touch to schedule your in-person evaluation.
Evaluation fee is $100 and is credited towards the training program you shose.