Frequently Asked Questions

This is not an easy question to answer without over-simplifying . I found this google answer so accurate that I decided to use it here.

Dog trainers have experience in training methods and how a dog relates to learning. Dog behaviorists have an in depth knowledge of the dogs mind and will use psychology to gain the desired behavior and may bring in elements of training to help support the behavioral modification plan.

Usually a dog trainer or a dog behaviorist such as myself will redirect you if we notice that you're not at the right place.

I don't focus much on methods but rather on fundamental principles. As mentioned on my home page, I use Least Intrusive Minimal Aversive (LIMA) principles of training which I believe is the most efficient way to train your dog and to set your realistic goals ahead based on my expertise in Advanced Learning Theory. 

My focus is to get your dog to willingly cooperate. I do NOT teach or encourage acting "Alpha" in order to show your dog who's the "Boss", this is very misunderstood/misused/ ineffective and unreliable in the long-term.

The goal is to get your dog's confidence up in a world where he doesn't understand human culture and the various "crazy" or "noisy" stimuli and reduce his stress response through a carefully set training program that focuses on reinforcing good behavior through various forms of reinforcements/ rewards (not only treats!) and discourage bad behavior through a systemic process of desensitization to help extinguish bad behavior without unnecessary aversives.

All consultations can only be confirmed once you created your client account on: canisense.petssl.com or by clicking the link on top right of the home page "CLIENT LOGIN/ REGISTER". Caution: an appointment request is not automatically confirmed after you request it on your client account account, you must first get my personal confirmation by e-mail before assuming an appointment is set.

The client account has multiple purposes: 

• It allows you to fill in all the required information about you and your pet so that I can view the information and be best prepared to optimize for our training
• It provides a calendar in which we can both schedule our training appointments which I confirm online and it has the option to synchronize your calendar through iCal feeds to get an automatic reminder on your iCal or Google Calendar
• You can upload/ download files (if applicable) and view all instructions pertaining to your dog's training and evolution
• And more...

• Once you complete your client profile, I take care of the rest and I usually come to you for our first appointment depending on the issue at hand. Most importantly, we will go together to the places where you and your dog struggle and I will guide you and your dog through the process

• Before our first session, I will call you and ask you specific questions about your dog's reactiveness, I will then advise or not the carry of a muzzle depending on the situation and your dog's disposition.
• I put an ultimate priority to not confuse your dog any further and will process in the most passive/ gentle manner for your dog to not feel too aroused and will work my way progressively to gain your dog's trust in order to guide him through a mild process of exposure to observe how sensitive your dog can be and evaluate where we can start comfortably

• In most cases, it is even better to get help from an experienced male behaviorist. My training and experience allows me to read your dog's body language and micro-expressions and adjust accordingly to eliminate all reasons why your dog would show fear. My introduction at the moment we meet will also be adjusted to reduce stress as much as possible for your dog.
• Every situation and every dog is unique and I will advise if I see that the level of stress/ fear is too excessive for your dog

No, as a behavior consultant, my focus is 1-on-1 training which allows me to offer my exclusive focus and guidance to you and your dog in circumstances where you both face difficulties and/ or lack understanding.

However, in the near future I will offer the C.L.A.S.S. (Canine Life and Social Skills) service in which part of the program will include group sessions.