Like many dog trainers, Amy's first love is dogs and she has shared her life with many dogs over the years... as a family member, a dog sitter, dog walker, as a volunteer and later an employee at her local SPCA, and as a teacher of dogs and their human families. 

Inspired many years ago by Victoria Stilwell and her show "It's Me or the Dog," which introduced her to the positive reinforcement training world, Amy decided to pursue her long-held dream of becoming a dog trainer. 

As a passionate advocate of positive reinforcement and force-free training methods, my mission as a dog teacher is to create a positive and respectful learning environment that promotes the well-being and happiness of dogs and their families. I am committed to utilizing effective, humane, and gentle training techniques backed by scientific research and evidence, that enhance the bond between dogs and their owners.

At the core of my approach is the principle of positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding desired behaviors rather than using punishment or force. By using treats, praise, toys, and other rewards, I provide dogs with positive feedback that encourages them to repeat those behaviors willingly. This approach not only creates a joyful learning experience for dogs but also fosters a sense of trust, confidence, and cooperation.

One of the key aspects of my mission is to help dog parents understand and translate their dog's "language." Dogs communicate through a variety of signals, including body language, vocalizations, and facial expressions. By educating and empowering dog owners about these communication cues, I enable them to better understand their dogs' emotions, needs, and intentions. This understanding is crucial for establishing clear and effective communication, which forms the foundation of a strong and mutually respectful relationship.

To achieve this, I work closely with dog parents to develop their observation skills and teach them how to recognize and interpret their dog's behaviors. By becoming more attuned to their dog's signals, owners can address potential issues, prevent misunderstandings, and respond appropriately to their dog's needs. This process of "translating" a dog's language is essential for effective training and enhancing the overall well-being of the dog.

I also recognize that frustrated dog families often seek relief from behavioral challenges and unwanted behaviors. Whether it's excessive barking, jumping, leash pulling, or puppy nipping, I strive to provide practical solutions and support to overcome these challenges. By identifying the underlying causes of these behaviors, I can develop personalized training plans that focus on positive behavior modification and teach alternative, desirable behaviors. Through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, I help frustrated dog families navigate these challenges and transform their dogs into well-mannered and balanced companions.

Central to my mission is staying up-to-date with the latest scientific research and advancements in dog training and behavior. I regularly engage in professional development, attend seminars, and collaborate with fellow trainers to ensure that my methods align with the most effective and ethical practices in the field. By incorporating evidence-based techniques into my training approach, I can provide dog parents with the highest level of expertise and guidance.

In addition to training dogs and their owners, I am dedicated to promoting a compassionate and humane approach to dog training within the wider community. I actively participate in educational initiatives, workshops, and public events to raise awareness about the benefits of positive reinforcement and force-free methods. By sharing my knowledge and experiences, I aim to inspire and empower others to prioritize the well-being and happiness of their canine companions.

Ultimately, my mission as a positive reinforcement, force-free dog teacher is to create a harmonious and joyful relationship between dogs and their families. Through training methods backed by science, I strive to educate, support, and empower dog parents in understanding their dogs, resolving behavioral challenges, and building a strong bond based on trust, respect, and positive communication. Together, we can create a world where every dog is treated with kindness, and every dog-owner relationship flourishes.