About John – Certifications

Hello There, I’m John!

I’ve always had a deep love for animals, especially dogs. Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by them—dogs, cats, even small critters—and I felt a unique connection with them from a young age. It was clear to me that working with animals wasn’t just a passion; it was my calling.

Over the years, my journey led me to work with animal shelters, including the ASPCA. It was there that I truly understood how life-changing proper training and behavior support can be for dogs. So many dogs ended up in shelters, not because they were “bad” dogs, but because their owners simply didn’t know how to address their behavioral needs. Seeing this broke my heart and also fueled my drive to be part of the solution.

When it comes to puppies, early training is crucial. One of the most common challenges for new dog owners is potty training, which can set the foundation for a strong, trusting relationship. I guide families through the process with patience and consistency, using positive reinforcement to help puppies understand what’s expected of them. Beyond potty training, teaching basic cues like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” early on ensures that puppies grow into well-behaved adult dogs. These cues become the building blocks for more advanced behavior as they mature, helping them become not just obedient, but also confident and well-adjusted companions.

For adult dogs, the learning never stops. Whether it’s fine-tuning existing skills or working through specific behavioral issues, my approach emphasizes continuous growth. Even well-behaved adult dogs can become better by reinforcing good habits, strengthening their bond with their owners, and addressing any lingering challenges. No matter the age or stage, every dog has the potential to improve and thrive with the right guidance.

Helping dogs overcome behavioral issues means everything to me because I know it can mean the difference between a dog staying with a loving family or being surrendered to a shelter. I realized that by giving dogs and their humans the right tools, I could make a real difference—not just in individual lives but in the broader effort to keep dogs out of shelters and in happy homes.

With over 20 years of experience and several certifications in dog training and behavior modification, my goal is simple: to help as many dogs (and people!) as I can. Whether it’s working with a playful puppy, helping a rescue dog settle into their new home, or coaching families through tricky behavioral challenges, I’m here for all of it. I’ve spent years learning, and now I’m passionate about sharing that knowledge with others. Because at the end of the day, it’s all about building a stronger, more understanding bond between dogs and the people who love them.

@JohnsDogMagic

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