You may be wondering why a dog trainer has a Ph.D...

Initially I studied to become a scientist and my love for animals led me to choose the Neuroscience and Behavior program at UMass. My degree gave me an excellent background in animal learning and now I am delighted to be using my education to teach people how to train their dogs.

I started teaching dog obedience classes for the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District in 1995 and continued offering classes there for 10 years. In 1996, I began developing and my own dog training business; offering private training and teaching classes at several locations on Portland’s West Side. In 2002, I joined the Association of Pet Dog Trainers and passed their exam to become a Certified Pet Dog Trainer. Currently I teach training classes exclusively at Schroeder's Den Dog Daycare. I was greatly honored to be voted the Willamete Valley's best behaviorist (and #2 trainer!) by Spot Magazine readers in 2008.

As for my approach to dog training, I don't insist that people use a particular training method. I prefer to help them discover what works best for them and their dog. In general, I emphasize using praise and built-in rewards to teach dogs good habits in any situation. With this approach, results can be achieved even if treats or training equipment are unavailable.

I strive to be the best teacher I can so that my students understand the philosophy behind the training. That way they can adapt to any new training challenges they encounter. Above all, I want to help owners provide a better life for their dogs through understanding their dogs’ needs and through fun and effective training.

My Dogs…

The Alaskan Malamute has been my personal breed of choice since I was 10 years old. I have enjoyed the challenges of training them to compete in obedience and have been rewarded with top finishes on the way to finishing their titles. My dogs and I also love backpacking, agility, dog sledding, and skijoring (the dog is harnessed to a skier). I have also had the pleasure of living with other breeds large (a Doberman) and small (a Schipperke). One of the things I love about my job is the chance to work with all types of dogs.