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Providing Wholistic Training Solutions to Our Clients in Western North Carolina Since 2002

Our Mission is to Help Dogs and Their Humans attain a Mutual Understanding Thru the Use of Compassionate Force Free Training Methods.

Our Training Philosophies are Based on Effective Leadership, Scientific Methods, and are Client Friendly.

We are Veterinarian, and Client Approved.

Certified, Ethical, Knowledgable.

Advocates Against Shock Collar Training

Based on current scientific evidence, the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior recommends that only reward-based training methods are used for all dog training, including the treatment of behavior problems.

Nan is the best! Nice small class, excellent information shared in class & take home sheets, and amazing interaction with each dog. She is skilled at knowing the temperaments of different breeds and helps each owner work with their particular dog’s characteristics. Nan always takes time to answer each owner’s questions and offers several good examples for problem solving. It’s obvious Nan loves her job from the thought and care she puts into her class. Our Sweet Pea Aussiedoodle loves her!

Diane Carr

Nan is the best!

Nan was recommended by my dog’s foster mom. I found her to be extremely professional and so wise about dogs. My dog, a rescue (and part Jack Russell) took to her immediately. Not only was she kind and knowledgable, she was an excellent role model for me and for my husband. After just a few sessions, we started to respond differently to our dog and he has calmed down considerably.
I highly recommend Nan as a trainer. She has given us the confidence and skill to deal with our lovable but highly energetic dog. And she accomplished this with gentleness and positivity, not physical intimidation.

Ellen Marsh

Nan trains with gentleness and positivity…

Puppies! Let the fun begin!

January 6, 2023 by Nan Long

The work starts immediately upon bringing your puppy home. No puppy should leave it’s mother or litter mates before 8 weeks of age. Of course there will occasionally be exceptions with rescue puppies. There are crucial social interactions that are needed prior to that time with their puppy family. It is important that their next … Continue reading Puppies! Let the fun begin!

We Are Force Free Canine Professionals

December 27, 2022December 27, 2022 by Nan Long

This is a good share and so true today. We humanize our dogs and expect them to be perfect and never display dog behaviors. They are after all dogs and it is our job to help them cope in our human world. Our private in-home consults help you gain the exact help you need. A … Continue reading We Are Force Free Canine Professionals

Dangers of Positive Punishment

December 12, 2022December 12, 2022 by Nan Long

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the destructive power of shock collars in dog training. Shock collar and electric fence companies will tell you they’re not harmful when used ‘correctly,’ but this is false. What they don’t tell you about is the damage these devices can do, both to the human/canine bond and to a dog’s emotional stability. … Continue reading Dangers of Positive Punishment

Effective Use of Management and Training

November 26, 2022 by Nan Long

(Great tips for the Holidays!) When work with clients one of the first things we talk about is proper management. That is the use of management so dogs can’t practice behaviors we don’t want. What our dogs practice, they get better at! Until consistent training can occur management is very helpful. An example of this … Continue reading Effective Use of Management and Training

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