The Journey into Dog Training: From Volunteer to Profession

Interest in dog training often starts with a love for dogs and a desire to understand their behavior and enhance the human-dog bond. Exposure to dogs with varying temperaments and observing their responses to training methods can spark an interest in learning more about canine behavior and training techniques. My journey into dog training is no different, and I am here to share how it all began and the many experiences that shaped my path into it.

Volunteering at Big Dog Ranch Rescue

I have always been passionate about helping dogs in need. This passion is what led me to volunteer at Big Dog Ranch Rescue. During my time there, I not only appreciated the great work being done by the trainers but was also inspired to be a trainer myself. Watching the trainers interact with the dogs and seeing the positive transformations they brought to these animals' lives was truly motivating.

Motivated by a Disturbing Incident

Many many years ago, at least 50, I had a deeply disturbing experience where I was assaulted in some remote woodland while walking with my 2 German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs). To my surprise, my dogs were more interested in the assailant's dog than in coming to my defense. This unfortunate event forced me to seek guidance from a dog trainer who often worked with the police in training defense dogs. This encounter dramatically changed the course of my life.

Realizing that I needed to be trained on how to handle my dogs more effectively, teach them obedience, and ensure they could be reliable in protection work and tracking tasks, I took the next step. Under the guidance of experienced trainers, I learned how to control the situation and prevent similar incidents in the future. Owing to the expertise and mentorship of the trainers, my bond with my dogs intensified, and I decided to delve deeper into the world of dog training.

Engaging with Exerted Military and Security Teams

Since then, I have had the opportunity to work with:

Ex MOD dog trainers: These trainers were instrumental in teaching me the intricacies of military-grade dog training, encompassing not only obedience but also protection and tracking. Security dog trainers: Their expertise in specialized training and handling security dogs played a crucial role in honing my skills in protection and search and rescue operations. Ex Metropolitan Policeman: The trip down memory lane brings to mind the 35-year career of this ex-policeman, who trained dog handlers and dogs for the Metropolitan Police Force. His profound experience and knowledge were invaluable in refining my skills and understanding the needs of various job roles that dogs undertake.

More recently, I had the opportunity to work alongside this well-known judge of working dogs, who later retired and now works with sniffer dogs. His guidance on competitive canine events and the professional recognition by his peers have provided me with additional insights into the professional aspects of dog training.

A Young and Talented Mentor

My journey into dog training also involves the essential mentoring that I received at a very young age under the guidance of a local trainer. I absolutely loved every minute of it.

Recognizing that my interest was not in biology but in canine behavior, I pursued a bachelor of science in biology to gain a comprehensive understanding. This degree enabled me to study the complexities of canine behavior, which I found incredibly fascinating. Shortly thereafter, I embraced the opportunity to delve into training as a business.

Conclusion

The journey into dog training is a profound and enriching experience that involves personal growth, professional development, and a deep connection with canines. My experiences have not only shaped my skills but also reinforced my passion for helping dogs and their human families. Whether through volunteering, hands-on training, or mentoring younger trainers, the love for this noble profession remains unwavering.