So You Want to Be a “Balanced” Dog Trainer?
Foundations, Ethics & Critical Thinking
A three-day workshop for trainers, aspiring trainers, and anyone interested in developing a deeper understanding of dog training.
Over three days, we’ll move from the foundations of learning theory into the much messier reality of applying it.
We’ll look at how dogs learn, how different training systems use the same learning principles in different ways, and what happens when we have to take that knowledge and make decisions for an individual dog and owner.
As we move through the workshop, the questions get harder.
What is the dog actually learning? What are we trying to change? Why did we choose this intervention? Is the dog capable of what we're asking? Can the owner realistically follow through? What are the potential consequences of our decision? And what do we do when our original plan isn't working?
Through lecture, discussion, demonstrations, and real-world scenarios, we'll work through those questions together.
What We’ll Cover
Learning Theory
We’ll start with classical and operant conditioning and build a working understanding of the four quadrants. Rather than stopping at definitions, we’ll look at how reinforcement, punishment, pressure, cues, consequences, and associations actually show up during training.
Training Systems
We’ll look at different approaches within dog training and how trainers can use the same principles of learning in very different ways.The focus isn't on deciding which camp is right. It's understanding what is actually happening within each system and recognizing the principles underneath the terminology and methodology.
From Theory to Practice
Once we understand the theory, we have to decide what to actually do with it. We’ll look at the individual dog—including genetics, temperament, learning history, and much more —to how those factors can change the way we approach training.
Decision-Making & Problem Solving
Real clients don't usually arrive with neatly defined training problems. So, we'll work through how to take what an owner tells us, identify the actual behavior, determine what information matters, and turn it into a workable training plan. We'll also discuss what to do when the first plan doesn't work and how the dog's response should shape our next steps.
Owner Capability & Capacity
We'll look at the owner's handling skills and physical capability, but also the reality of their life: work, children, finances, housing, multiple dogs, time, consistency, safety, and how much long-term management they can realistically sustain.
Behavior Modification & Ethics
Moving beyond obedience, this section examines more complex behaviors, including aggression, reactivity, fear, anxiety, and resource guarding. Topics include the relationship between behavior and emotional responses, the distinctions between exposure and flooding, management and modification, and the roles of suppression, punishment, and rehabilitation. This will also address the ethical considerations behind behavioral intervention, including proportionality, welfare, risk, available alternatives, and ultimately, what we're trying to accomplish for both the dog and the owner.
Who Can Attend?
This workshop is open to aspiring trainers, those just starting their careers, established professionals, and anyone with a serious interest in learning more about dog training. No prior professional experience is required, nor do you need to identify as a “balanced” trainer or subscribe to any particular training system. All levels of experience and different perspectives are welcome.
Details
3-Day Workshop
Dates: [DATES]
Location: [CITY, CA]
Attendance: Limited to 12 attendees
Investment: $500 per person