How long have you been working as a dog trainer?
I became certified as a dog trainer in 2022.
What inspired you to become a dog trainer?
My dog, Luna, inspired me to learn more about dog behavior. During her adolescent phase, I felt lost and wasn’t always sure how to support her. I decided to enroll in a dog training course, and that’s where I really embraced the world of positive reinforcement. Since then, I’ve continued learning and have expanded my interests into separation anxiety and, more recently, feline behavior. I love being able to take what I’ve learned and use it to help others better understand and support their animals.
What kind of training do you specialize in?
I really enjoy working with puppy owners and dogs who are struggling with anxiety. I love helping people better understand their dogs’ behavior and giving them practical tools they can use to build confidence and strengthen their relationship with their pets. More recently, I’ve also become interested in learning more about feline behavior.
What’s your favorite high-value snack? (For yourself)
I’m a sucker for sour candy and Hi-Chew!
What’s one accomplishment you’re especially proud of in your training career?
My biggest accomplishment is becoming certified as a dog trainer. It was an important milestone for me and the beginning of a journey that has allowed me to continue learning and helping others.
Why do you swear by positive reinforcement? (We know it works, but we want to hear your why!)
Positive reinforcement, in my opinion, is one of the best ways to strengthen the bond between a dog and their owner. When dogs have positive experiences during training, they are more likely to want to engage, participate, and work with you. I also love that positive reinforcement gives us an opportunity to teach dogs what we want them to do while helping them feel safe and confident throughout the learning process.
Give us a tale of a training success that makes you do a happy dance every time you think about it:
I love seeing nervous dogs slowly come out of their shells and gain confidence over time. It’s especially rewarding when someone gives their newly adopted dog the time, patience, and space they need to adjust. Watching those small wins add up and seeing a dog become more comfortable in their new life always brings a smile to my face.
What’s one piece of advice you wish every dog guardian knew?
Giving your dog opportunities to make choices can have a huge impact on the training process. Some dogs need more time to adjust, and giving them space allows them to learn at their own pace. Mistakes are going to happen, and that’s a normal part of learning. Instead of focusing on perfection, I encourage owners to celebrate the small wins and remember that progress takes time.
If you weren’t a dog trainer, what would you be doing instead?
Before becoming a dog trainer, I was considering going into speech-language pathology.
Do you currently have any pets? Tell us about them!
I have a five-year-old Border Collie/Cattle Dog mix named Luna. She is definitely my soul dog and has taught me so much throughout our journey together. I also have a shelter-alum kitten named Bugs. He’s currently a mischievous teenager who always finds a way to brighten my day.
What’s your go-to karaoke song?
“Bye Bye Bye” by *NSYNC!
If you could live anywhere in the world for a year, where would it be?
I’m originally from the desert, so I’d want somewhere warm—but it absolutely needs to have a beach!
If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why? 🐾
I would probably be some kind of herding-breed mix. My brain is constantly looking for something to work on or do, so I think I’d fit right in with a dog who loves having a job!
