Featured Student
Our students are the future of dog training and the heart of our school.
That’s why we regularly take a moment to recognize one of our top aspiring trainers here.
Our Featured Student this month is Olivia Tumbarello of Portland, Oregon. At the time of this posting, Olivia is studying Phase 8 of the Master Class, and she is doing an impressive job with her studies!
A Word from Olivia
My Favorite Recent Study Topics:
My favorite topics of study so far are Phase 2 (Understanding Dog Behavior, Body Language, and Vocalizations), Phase 3 (How Dogs Think and Learn) and Phase 7 (Behavior Problem Solving).
My Favorite Recent Hands-On Activity:
My favorite hands-on activity is in Phase 7, desensitizing and counter conditioning fear.
How My Studies Have Changed the Way I See Dogs:
What a good question at this point in my studies. Now that I can read dogs way better, I see too much. I see owners who can’t read their dogs, I see abuse, I see miscommunication between dog and owners, I can’t go to fenced in dog parks, I can’t shut my mouth when I see a dog being hit or wearing a prong collar and sometimes, I just can’t look because I need a break. As for my dog, he’s living the best life!!! All in all I have a greater respect for dogs. I’m pretty sure all humans have to go to a few dog body language classes before adopting. I’m almost sure most dogs have leash reactivity.
What I’m Most Excited About:
My passion for dog training has grown tremendously since I started school. It’s helped my business, it’s given me a great opportunity to grow and learn. I’m so glad I made this choice in my life. I’ve never finished any kind of schooling so this is big for me.
Way to go, Olivia, we’re so proud of you!