Our Method

The foundation for shaping a courageous and confident dog includes Consistency and Clear Communications. Dogs need us to communicate with them in ways that THEY understand. 

We need to be calm and clear before we expect that of them. The process involves forming new habits, seeing things from a different perspective, and practice. 

My job is to show you how this happens and to support & help you on your own journey.  Your dog needs to be recognized with mindful regard for who he or she is. I can help you with that, bringing out the best in you and your dog.  

Dogs don't have "good and bad" or "right and wrong." They simply have "works" and "doesn't work." Dogs begin to respond when we meet them where they are and position ourselves as their benevolent guardian. They need to feel safe, they need to feel included & have things be interesting, and they need to be rewarded in ways that matter to them. 

Your job is to show up, to commit to being present for your dog, to set aside what you think you may know and be willing to take the time to practice. Many people want a dog ready-made to go on long hikes and rides and trips to the dog park. When we begin training, we have to sometimes make their world smaller and more manageable, and then systematically and consistently give them more experiences and chances to "win" the game.

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"We rescued a very smart but challenging pup. After we have been working with Gaia, Girlie is a rock star! Gaia not only taught me training techniques but also how important my emotions, reactions, and behaviors are to effectively communicate what I want her to do. Gaia is a skilled trainer and truly devoted to dogs and 'she has been there' and understands the human emotions and perceptions that ultimately affect building a relationship with and training your dog. " -- Michael White, PhD