Manners.MeetOurTrainers

Meet the Trainers

Certified means Qualified

All Canine Company trainers receive 360 hours of training.

They participate in a multi-tiered program that involves hands-on coursework in the field under the supervision of experienced trainers who know our standards and practices. Classroom and online instruction support their training as well.

Relationship experts

Manners obedience training is about relationships - starting with the one we have with you.

Our trainers are skilled listeners who will first work on understanding your needs and goals, frustrations and challenges. They are experts at establishing and building confidence and overcoming insecurities and fears - both yours and your dog's.

Dawn

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: Well, I have a lot of patience, which comes in handy when dealing with four-legged friends and sometimes their two-legged owners.

Q: What’s the most unusual name for a dog you’ve ever heard?

A: After 15 years of doing this, it’s still Frog, the name of a yellow lab pup. It felt really odd calling the dog by its name during the visits.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: A mixed breed. But a customer did tell me once that I had the hair of a poodle.

Kristina

Q: When did you first want to be a trainer?

A: As a kid with my first dog, I enjoyed challenging him to do tricks and even though I was too young to know it, I was who he respected the most. I love teaching dogs and when the job opening with Canine Company came up I jumped all over the chance.

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I've learned a lot more about understanding dogs and their behaviors, which helps me not only in obedience training but also in regular visits for Invisible Fence training. I also have patience to handle all kinds of situations, and I welcome a challenge.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: I guess either a Jack Russell or Rat Terrier. Those breads are feisty, lots of energy, don't sit still, want to please, and are tough.

Greg

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: It has to be my personality. I'm a very outgoing person and it allows me to connect with our clients to really find what they are trying to achieve and apply that to the training sessions.

Q: What’s the key to successful dog training?

A: Just being patient. Some dogs take longer to pick up things than others and in those situations remaining patient can be difficult but it’s a must for the dog to learn.

Q: What’s the most unusual name for a dog you’ve ever heard?

A: Whiskey. And the owner didn't even like to drink.

Diana

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: It has to be my 15 years of experience.

Q: What’s the key to effective dog training?

A: Consistency and the owner’s time to commit to training.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: Rottweiler. Good natured, spirited and loyal.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: It’s whenever my clients are confident and able to achieve their goals with their dog’s behavior and I'm thrilled that I was able to lead them to that goal.

Jessica

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: Probably my background in Animal Behavior and Psychology. My approach is not only to understand what the dogs are telling me through body language and behavior, but also to understand their needs, concerns, and limitations.

Q: What’s the key to effective dog training?

A: It’s making sure all members of a household (canine and human) come to an agreement and are on the same page, because consistency, patience, hard work, following through, and confidence are the keys.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: My best #dogboasting moment was when I trained a very large, (and still growing) 120 pound Great Dane named Harbor. He loves people so much, but he would jump and it was dangerous. After he learned to sit to greet people, and earn attention and praise that way, his family was so proud. And you could tell he was also very proud of himself!

Ashley

Q: Why did you become a certified dog trainer?

A: To make a difference in not only the dog’s life but the owner’s life, too. Also, to witness the growth of an individual pet and see the impact training can make on the quality of their life and the household’s.

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: Having 16 years of experience working with animals, starting since I was 10 years old. I've volunteered at animal shelters so I understand rescue dogs and how individualized their trainings need to be. I've also worked and gone to school in the medical field so I'm able to bring that experience to the table and ensure that dogs happy and healthy.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: I was teaching "leave it" for the first time to a young puppy. The client couldn't get over how quickly the dog picked it up. He called in every member of his family, he got his in-laws on Skype, and phoned his neighbors to prove he adopted a smart dog.

Brad

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: My versatility with all aspects of Canine Company, from Invisible Fence installs to Manners training.

Q: What’s the key to successful dog training?

A: Consistency from everyone involved.

Q: What’s the most memorable name for a dog you’ve ever heard?

A: I'll say JJ. It’s just one of those names that sticks out.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: I'd be a Newfoundland. I’m nice and fairly big and cuddly.

Diana

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I’d say my ability to adapt technique to create a customized lesson plan built around an individual pet's needs. My experience working with a long list of breeds has allowed me to see the many personalities canines have to offer. Every dog is special. Discovering what motivates them, and developing a great work ethic within them is the most exciting part of training.

Q: What’s the coolest or most unusual name for a dog you have ever heard?

A: Dee-Oh-Gee

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: I grew up on a horse ranch in AZ and have been riding since I was 6 years old. Over the years I have trained in various disciplines of horseback riding such as jumping, dressage, western pleasure and barrel racing. For as long as I can remember, I wanted to spend my life working with animals. From reptiles to livestock, animals are my passion! I love that I can say that I’m living my dream.

Heather

Q: What sets you apart as a dog trainer?

A: With over 25 years of experience in the field, it would be easy for me to think I know it all, but I am a firm believer that a person, just like a dog, is never done learning! This open-minded approach allows me to be creative in training, so if I’m met with a stubborn canine client, I can combine my knowledge of learning theory with understanding of how to motivate a dog, and end up with a fun learning experience for all involved!

Q: What is the most challenging part of being a dog trainer?

A: With all of the clipped media and TV shows available now, a big challenge is helping clients to understand that modifying their dog’s behavior is not a magic trick! I really enjoy working with whole families, because getting everyone who interacts with the dog on the same page and providing consistent feedback to their pet is where the magic really happens!

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: Hmm… likely a Pit mix. Strong, friendly, loyal, big smile, and still widely misunderstood!

Alexyss

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I absolutely loved the idea of helping people to become closer to their dogs. I really enjoy learning about animal behaviorisms and being able to utilize that knowledge to help train both the animal and help the owner understand their pets body language better.

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: I taught a Belgian Malinois that was unable to be walked and who knocked people down the staircase not only to walk politely but also to wait at the top of the stairs. Now he can go on walks with anyone, including the 65-year-old grandmother of the house. He also waits politely at the top of every staircase for people to get to the bottom. The family feels like I've saved their home!

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: The patience required to work with a more difficult dog. Sometimes the milestone you make in a training sessions isn't the progress you or the client were expecting. The thing to remember is that every dog learns at their own pace and some take longer.

Dave

Q: What do you think makes you a good trainer?

A: Experience. I've been creating safe and happy environments for dogs for over 11 years. Very little can surprise me anymore, which helps me create fast and easy solutions for my clients. I also like to think I make the solutions come about in a fun and interactive way.

Q: What’s the coolest name for a dog you’ve ever heard?

A: One family let their kids name a new dog and they came up with Pajamas. I still smile about that.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: I love the reaction I get from a pessimistic client. Sometimes I'm at a client's home who thinks hope is lost and their dog just will never to behave. Usually before I leave the first session I can see a look of both surprise and relief on their faces.

Sara

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company trainer?

A: Growing up, my best friend had a dog and I did not. I never understood what she meant when she said her dog was part of her family. In high school, my family got a boxer puppy and I truly understood the impact a dog can have on a family. It inspires me every day to work with families so they can have a well-behaved dog.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: German shepherd. I am very hard working, and a loyal companion. I also really need to stay active and busy or else I will get bored and chew on furniture, which in human terms means eating all day. German shepherds have a great work ethic, great personalities, and are very loyal and protective of their own, all qualities I strive to maintain.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: A client went on a 5-mile run or walk every day with their dog, but the dog always wanted to go at the running pace. The mom was really struggling, getting pulled down the street every day. All it took was a few minutes with one of our walking tools and mom and the pup were right next to each other. This was something so simple and a quick fix that changed her entire outlook on running.

Alexis

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I think that what sets me apart as a trainer is that I take time to get to know my canine clients personalities and do my best to adjust the lesson to each dog's learning style.

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: The most challenging part of dog training is finding the best way to determine and explain to a client exactly what their dog needs to succeed. Every dog is different and learns differently.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: If I were a dog, I would be a Pitbull. Though as nails and a good heart. Pitbulls love to please and can easily adapt to most situations.

Christina

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I think my background in zoo-keeping and exotic animal training sets me apart from the other trainers. We use the same method to train tigers as we use to train your dog!

Q: What’s the most challenging part of dog training?

A: The most challenging thing is getting everyone in the house on the same page and having everyone use the same language.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: My best #dogboasting moment was actually a bird boasting moment. I taught a Blue and Gold Macaw to do voluntary nail trims, which is usually a big challenge!

Royah

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: Watching a dog connect the pieces and being part of the transformation has always fascinated me. Becoming a Canine Company certified trainer has allowed me to do just that. I’m living my dream!

Q: What’s the most unusual name for a dog you’ve ever heard?

A: A red and white Boston Terrier named Jackpot. The name fit his personality so well. He was such a character!

Ariella

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I have always had a passion for animals and teaching. Being a trainer allows me to teach both animals and people. I love when I can help people understand more about their pets' behavior; it allows them to have a better understanding and relationship with their pets.

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: My patience. I have been working with both dogs and people for many years and I love seeing when people and dogs have that "ah-ha" moment.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: I would be a Saint Bernard because I have a big heart and love to help people.

Kristina

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I have a variety of work experience. Everything from directing a nature program for kids to doing climate research in the White Mountains to banding birds for MassWildlife. I believe this helps me train with a fresh perspective.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: I would be a Collie - loyal, adaptable, and intuitive.

Q: Tell us about your best #dogboasting moment.

A: My best #dogboasting moment was actually with a bunny! I taught my rabbit to use a litter box and to go back into her house on command. It’s so much easier than running around after her!

Katie

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: Because I have an ongoing passion for dog training and love learning new things. Keeping dogs safe, well-educated, and behaved keeps them in loving homes, which is very important.

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I have been training dogs for 15 years professionally. I have worked with many breeds and behaviors. I know a lot of tricks and tidbits. I love working with dogs and seeing them perfect new commands and tricks.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: I would be a Border Collie or a Cattle Dog as I am active and driven, but also independent and sometimes stubborn.

Ruben

Q: What do you think sets you apart as a trainer?

A: My patience and creativity, as well as my upbringing with dogs in the home.

Q: Tell us about your best dog-boasting moment.

A: I rescued a Pit bull off of the streets in the Bronx who was extremely emaciated. It was the middle of winter and he was shaking from the cold and fear. I gave him a can of wet food, which he devoured. He let me pick him up and on the way to the vet he laid against my chest and fell asleep, as if he knew I was there to help him. After a few months, he regained his weight and spirit and he was later adopted by a family in New Rochelle.

Q: Anything else you can tell us about yourself?

A: I am currently a member of the US Army Reserve and a Brazilian Jujitsu practitioner.

Kyle

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: The most challenging part about dog training is learning the different personalities of dogs and learning how to morph the training around them and to be able to complete the task at hand while instructing the client at the same time.

Q: What's the coolest or most unusual name for a dog you've ever heard?

A: The most interesting dog name I've seen so far would proudly have to be cumulonimbus just like the cloud.

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: My best dog boasting moment would have to be working with my own dog Shamus! He’s a Belgian Malinois who is very stubborn. When I would take him off leash and tell him to run inside he would just run away. Finally, I was able to teach him that once I said “inside” it meant to run inside. So now every time I take him off leash when we get back from a walk I say “inside” and he runs right through the front door. I'm truly proud of that!

Michaela

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I became a Canine Company trainer because I am passionate about the shaping behaviors of dogs and helping them become a well-rounded family companion. Training dogs is not just a job for me but more of a passion.

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: The most challenging part of being a dog trainer is putting yourself into the mindset of a dog and understanding their thought process.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: I would be a coonhound so I could howl to the sky and have big floppy ears!

Mike

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: Trying to figure out what each individual dog's needs are and adapting training methods accordingly. It's more of an art than a science, because every dog is different.

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I am naturally positive and friendly and do my best to make everyone feel comfortable and confident. Dogs who don't typically respond well to men usually take to me pretty quickly. In the past, I've worked with dogs who were in a "last resort" setting and have seen what can happen when dogs haven't been given the opportunity to be trained well and guided in their behavior. That is an advantage for me as I help our customers nip that kind of behavior in the bud.

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: Although I love dogs, I'm a proud cat dad. I'm an avid reader of all kinds of literature. I love to cook (and eat).

Mike

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: Trying to figure out what each individual dog's needs are and adapting training methods accordingly. It's more of an art than a science, because every dog is different.

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: Although I love dogs, I'm a proud cat dad. I'm an avid reader of all kinds of literature. I love to cook (and eat).

Nathan

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I have watched many dogs act inappropriately in their homes and their families just don’t know how to help. I wanted to give them the resources to change that dysfunction and bring about a more orderly home.

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: The most challenging part of dog training is imparting and impressing that consistency in homework is crucial to the long term success of the dog and family.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: I would be a working dog, specifically a German Shepherd.

Erin

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I've always been drawn to animals. Growing up I knew I would be the most fulfilled if I could dedicate my time to benefit them in some way. I am so happy to be a part of Canine Company's mission to better the relationships of pets and their owners!

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: Gaining a very timid dog's trust. Being patient enough to watch a shy pup become more and more comfortable with me is very rewarding.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: Doberman Pinscher. I'm curious, loyal, and loving to people who are close to me. I need to be kept busy and active or I will get stir crazy.

Alexyss

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

Olivia

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: My experience with horses and dogs has given me more confidence in tackling new situations.

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

A: Learning how to adjust your energy to different dogs.

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: The most rewarding thing I get out of work is seeing clients happy because they see success of their dogs in their training for the first time.

Joe

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: I'm a hard working guy who is confident in his abilities to achieve anything he is willing to work for with the drive to make sure things are done right.

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: The best moments for me are when people are happy and stress free because their dog is living a happy healthy life.

Q: What's the coolest or most unusual name for a dog you've ever heard?

A: Once a guy was screaming for "Mike" and I was waiting for Mike, expecting him to be a person. Then a big boxer came flying around the corner.

Juan

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company certified trainer?

A: I love working with dogs! I wanted to help give both the pets and the owners a better quality life in the household.

Q: What’s the most challenging part of dog training?

A: I would say being patient as sometimes it just takes the pet a little time to put everything together.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: I'd be a mixed breed, because they are just awesome. They are energetic, loving, loyal, and always looking to please.

Shelby

Q: Why did you become a Canine Company trainer?

A: I became a trainer because I want people to enjoy living with their dogs. I enjoy helping them learn and teach their dogs to accomplish this. For me the most satisfying part is seeing the relationship develop between the dog and their people.

Q: What’s the most challenging part of dog training?

A: Consistency. Making sure everyone in the household is following the same rules with their dog is key, but very difficult to keep up with. Everyone has to be on the same page. It is easy to let things slide ‘just this once’, which makes training more difficult.

Q: What else can you tell us about yourself?

A: I have competed in each of the televised dog shows, including the Westminster Dog Show, AKC National Championship, and National Dog Show. I have also earned titles in a number of AKC venues. I live with Fable, a Border Collie.

Heather

Q: What sets you apart as a dog trainer?

Q: What is the most challenging part of being a dog trainer?

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

A: Hmm… likely a Pit mix. Strong, friendly, loyal, big smile, and still widely misunderstood!

Nikki

Q: What sets you apart as a dog trainer?

A: What sets me apart as a trainer are my unique experiences. Not only have I trained dogs, but I previously worked at a zoo where I trained all types of species including parrots, reptiles, and even a porcupine. I'm able to apply all these previous interactions to the dogs I work with every day.

Q: What is the most challenging part of being a dog trainer?

A: The most challenging part of dog training is consistency. When life gets crazy or busy, it can sometimes be very difficult making sure the dog gets in some training time.

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: My best #dogboasting moment was when I worked at an animal shelter. We had a very large dog that would constantly pull on leash and was very mouthy. He was almost impossible to walk! Through a lot of patience, strength and a great walking tool I was able to get him walking calmly, even in a busy downtown area.

Kyle

Q: What is the most challenging part of Dog Training?

Q: What's the coolest or most unusual name for a dog you've ever heard?

A: The most interesting dog name I've seen so far would proudly have to be cumulonimbus just like the cloud.

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

Dave

Q: Tell us about your best dog boasting moment.

A: My best dog boasting moment was with a dog that was notorious for jumping up and mouthing people he just met. He had even accidentally hurt people with his excitement. He was very large and hyper and our training sessions were slow until finally it started to click and he understood what we wanted from him. The first time he greeted a new person by sitting, I felt so proud of our hard work together.

Q: What sets you apart as a trainer?

A: What sets me apart as a trainer is my experience working with many different animal species other than just dogs. I can gather my knowledge from working with other species and apply it to dog training.

Q: If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

A: If I were a dog I would be an American Brittany. They are energetic, intelligent, and friendly and I feel I connect well with the energy of the breed.