Kelly & Newton

I didn't know what I didn't know until we raised our pup Newton; An intelligent, athletic, spirited boy with a willingness to try anything and a capacity for tremendous learning. His 'Joie de Vivre' and deep curiosity led to training challenges during his teenage stage, particularly in social situations (he's a very enthusiastic greeter). Newt cheerfully jumps and lunges when he sees people and other dogs but he had mastered basic skills and tricks and is very friendly. 

I was stuck. Our training stalled and  I needed help building my skills in order to advance his learning while tempering his excitement.  I heard about Melanie through friends with a troubled rescue...however my needs were different, I just had an enthusiastic puppy with a lack of focus. Was she the right fit? Within minutes of our initial consult I knew Melanie had a vast array of skills, tricks and ploys coupled with concise communication which would help me guide my working dog into a reliable and happy companion. Buuuut...Newt is not food motivated. Aaaand ....Newt is a creative thinker, so treat reward training is unreliable. 

Not a problem for Melanie! She examined Newt's unique skill set, learning style and innate traits and created lessons that would address our exact needs and meet our goals using the dog's natural drives to coax success with positive reinforcement.  We train at home, at her training centre, in public parks and in a variety of local businesses in Orangeville who welcome dogs.  The variety of learning environments greatly enhances success by offering endless distraction.  It's exactly what we needed. The teamwork and confidence building set the ground work for predictable day to day activities and rewarding new adventures. Thanks Mel! Your gift is building strong and successful  relationships between humans and their dogs.  And congratulations to you on becoming a certified Canine Good Neighbour Evaluator. Looking forward to attaining that title!