Listen up, dog trainers. If you think you’ve "arrived" because you’ve mastered sit, stay, and the art of bribing your client’s dog with a handful of liver treats, let me gently (and humorously) remind you: you haven’t. Dog training isn’t a destination; it’s a perpetually winding road with new trails, potholes, and surprise squirrel sightings at every turn.
Continuing Education: A Lifelong Journey
As a trainer, I’ve made it my mission to stay ahead in this ever-evolving profession. No two dogs are alike, and a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I’m constantly learning, traveling, and absorbing information to better serve dogs and their owners. Here’s a glimpse into how I keep sharpening my skills:
The Triple Helix with Dr. Melanie Uhde
Currently, I’m immersed in Dr. Melanie Uhde’s "Triple Helix" course, which dives deep into canine neurobiology, behaviour, and learning. This month-long journey is a masterclass in understanding the intricate workings of a dog’s mind, from how they perceive the world to how hormones and stress shape their behaviour. It’s like attending Hogwarts for dog trainers—minus the wand.
Shadowing LEO Seminars
I frequently travel with our CEO, Michael Nezbeth, to shadow some incredibly informative Law Enforcement (LEO) seminars. These deep dives into the world of working dogs have provided invaluable insights, many of which I’ve integrated into my behaviour modification programs. From understanding drive to advanced obedience, these experiences have profoundly shaped my approach to training.
Attending Ivan Balabanov’s Seminar
I’ve had the privilege of traveling to California to learn from Ivan Balabanov, one of the industry’s most respected trainers. His techniques and philosophies on training have challenged me to think critically and adapt new strategies for working with clients and their dogs.
Kynology Week with Industry Greats
Recently, I completed a week-long Kynology lecture with Stewart Hillard, Forrest Micke, and Michael Ellis. These sessions were a goldmine of information, covering everything from foundational principles to nuanced behaviour modification techniques. The experience has enriched my understanding of canine behaviour and reinforced my commitment to continuous learning.
Learning Opportunities Closer to Home
If traveling to seminars isn’t feasible, we’ve got you covered. Our company hosts amazing summer seminars at our Dundalk farm, bringing in world-class trainers from across the globe. It’s a fountain of learning right in your backyard! From advanced behaviour modification techniques to working dog fundamentals, there’s something for everyone.
We also offer:
Immersive Train the Trainer Program: A hands-on, in-depth training experience designed to turn passion into expertise.
Apprenticeships: Offered throughout the year, these programs provide the perfect opportunity to learn the art and science of dog training under experienced mentorship.
Why It Matters
Every dog is unique, and not every approach works for every situation. By exposing myself to a variety of methodologies and training philosophies, I can better tailor my programs to meet the individual needs of dogs and their owners. My ultimate goal is to help dogs live their best lives and to empower their humans with the knowledge to make that happen.
Looking Ahead to 2025
My goals for this year include expanding our team with knowledgeable trainers who can not only teach obedience but also connect with clients on a deeper level. It’s about creating partnerships that go beyond commands and diving into what truly makes a dog-human relationship thrive. Whether it’s through advanced behaviour modification or simply helping a family understand their dog’s needs, we’re here and want to make a difference.
A Word To The Wise:
To all the trainers out there: stay curious, stay humble, and never stop learning. The dogs we train deserve our best, and that means constantly evolving, adapting, and growing. For me, this journey isn’t just about becoming a better trainer—it’s about creating a world where dogs and their humans can truly thrive together.
Now, go out there and learn something new. And remember, the only thing standing between you and the next breakthrough in your training career might just be a plane ticket, a lecture, or an open mind.
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