Training Philosophy and Profiles

Regarding Obedience Training:
In brief, we believe behavior is shaped through the consistent reward of desired, yet offered behavior: In this way the dog is set-up to succeed without coercion. We are also strong proponents of positive reinforcement in behavior conditioning, transitioning voluntary behavior into involuntary responses. In addition, we believe that training is not without consequences or corrections. Just as a den mother would gently correct improper behavior in a pup, unwanted behavior can be marked and mildly re-directed.

Regarding Behavior Management:
We believe in rules & boundaries (expectations) as set by the human members of the household. The humans should occupy a higher ranking status in the home; dogs either lead or are led by nature, therefore how they are led in a domesticated environment is the responsibility of the humans. With that said, the human relationship with the dog should be one of fairness and respect. In training to resolve problematic behavior and/or compounding behaviors we develop Intelligent Leadership Programs (ILP) unique to each dog. ILPs are steered by breed, temperament, history, environment, relationship with owner and owner dynamics (mindset, willingness, capabilities, etc.).

		Diane Kunas Lead Trainer Certified Behaviorist and Trainer Diane is originally from the Midwest where she began her journey with dogs as a volunteer trainer. It was when she relocated to the UK in 2003 that she focused her full attention on the advanced study of dogs through the Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training (CIDBT). She holds certification from the Cambridge Institute of Dog Behavior & Training, is a full member of the Canine & Feline Behaviour Association (CFBA) of Great Britain, and is currently working towards an accredited masters degree in Breed-Specific Behaviour from Middlesex University in London.

Call 206.484.3696 or email us at training@strutthepup.com