​​Hi I’m Clara and I am an Accredited Dog Trainer, certified by IAABC and AVS*. My dog training journey started when I watched a video about teaching dogs through positive reinforcement.
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It reminded me of my own journey as a student often hearing - “Don’t do this!” “Don’t do that!” “Why you do like this?”. ​ This is similar to how some of us teach our dogs, we tell them what not to do but provide insufficient feedback on what to do. Positive reinforcement training caught my attention because one of the guiding principles was to teach your learner (dog) what to do. This method of teaching sounded less frustrating to me and I was excited to be a teacher with it.
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That inspired me to get my dog Maki (yes what an unusual reason to get a dog) and began my journey of teaching. With Maki in tow, I attened puppy classes conducted by Al from My Dog Trainer and progressed to being a Trainee at his school for dog trainers.
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To enjoy our dog’s companionship, it’s helpful for our dogs to learn rather unnatural behaviors such as walking by a loud trolley or other dogs, standing stationary while a vet checks them, and the list goes on! I believe in teaching our dogs these skills to prepare them for their lives with us. And as our dogs learn, we as owners, improve in our skills of teaching them.
*AVS-accredited dog trainers have met AVS’ criteria for accreditation. Notwithstanding this, all potential customers are expected to conduct their own due diligence and assessment of the services and products offered by the dog trainer as appropriate for their needs. AVS is not affiliated with and does not endorse or recommend any specific ACDT. NParks assumes no liability whatsoever arising from or in connection with the acceptance of services and/or use of products offered by the dog trainer.