"Clear, two-way communication is the cornerstone of successful animal training." -Dr. Susan Friedman
I strive to teach clear communication and build trust-based relationships between dogs and their people. I want to offer both dogs and people the choice to opt in joyfully and strengthen their relationships by learning together. It's purely magical (and scientific!) to help people and dogs understand each other. I am certified by the Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), and I'm committed to learning about individuals and their dogs. Dogs are like us--they are individuals with differing needs and motivations. Whether you are looking for basics like attention, sit, down, puppy training and socialization, or are struggling with a behavior issue, I can help!
About Rebecca
Rebecca currently offers remote and in person private training in greater Portland. She previously taught group classes at New England Dog Training Club in Cambridge, and Donna's Do Right Dogs in Norwell. She previously assisted and then taught clicker-training classes at the Pet Republic.
Education and Experience
Guilford College, BA English Language and Literature
CCPDT Certified Trainer
Living and Learning with Animals Course with Dr. Susan Friedman, Behavior Works, 2020
IAABC Animal Behavior Consulting: Principles & Practice, 2018
I started on my journey to become a dog trainer after getting my dog, Evey. She was a rescue from Tennessee and I had no idea what I was getting into. As she grew from a shy, fearful puppy into a reactive adolescent dog who barked and lunged at everything that moved, I realized that I needed some more tools in my toolbox. With a little luck and some incredible mentors, I started learning more about dogs and how to communicate and build trust-based relationships with them. I gained an immense amount of knowledge working as a dog walker at Neighborhood Paws, a locally owned company that uses positive reinforcement training in their dog walking, playgroups and doggie hikes. I spent time as a teenager and as an adult volunteering at the Animal Rescue Leagues in Portland, ME, and Boston, MA, respectively. Evey and I continue our training journey together, and I'm so proud of how far she's come and how much she has taught me.
