Hi, I'm Leila
From my early days as a teenage dog-sitter, evolving into a seasoned professional trainer, my journey with dogs has been the most rewarding adventure. When the pandemic emerged in 2020, I welcomed a puppy of my own, a Maltipoo named Boo. While I had always cherished working with dogs, it wasn't until I had my own that I grasped the significance of training.
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My passion didn't stem from curiosity, but necessity, after Boo endured a tragic accident. It led to the loss of his vision and a series of interconnected health challenges. With each bout of illness, new behavioral issues surfaced. Previously he greeted new pups with excitement, but after a few months of health complications, he began to tremble at every encounter.​
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While Boo's vet prescribed dozens of medications and advised showering him with love, I felt compelled to take further action. Witnessing my puppy undergo such changes spurred me to reject the notion that there was "nothing I could do" to help him. So I immersed myself in the art of training.
I firmly believe in the transformative power of positive reinforcement, as Boo stands as living proof of its ability to change lives. His remarkable transformation ignited a profound passion for training and led me to devote my career to my greatest love. Equipped with years of professional experience and continued education through the Animal Behavior College, I am committed to making a lasting impact on the lives of both dogs and their owners. ​I am Fear Fee certified and LIMA compliant.
Our Philosophy
At The Doggy Dojo, our philosophy is rooted in the belief that dog training is more than just teaching commands and modifying behaviors; it's about fostering a deep and enduring connection between dogs and their owners. We emphasize a holistic approach that considers the emotional and physical well-being of each dog, ensuring that our training methods are as compassionate as they are effective.
We use the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach to training and follow the Humane Hierarchy. Learn more about our methods.
Respect and Understanding
We respect each dog's unique background, tailoring our training to their specific needs. This personalized approach makes the training process more effective and enjoyable for both dogs and owners.
Positive
Reinforcement
Our primary training method is positive reinforcement, using rewards and praise to encourage desired behaviors. This approach strengthens the bond between dog and owner and promotes a harmonious home environment.
Education and Empowerment
We focus on educating owners alongside training their dogs, providing them with the knowledge and tools to communicate effectively with their pets. This helps build relationships based on mutual trust and understanding.
Continuous
Learning
We continuously update our knowledge with the latest dog training research to provide the best service, reflecting our dedication to the dogs and families we serve.
Community and
Support
We foster a supportive community where dog owners can share experiences and build lasting relationships. Our welcoming environment extends beyond training, offering a network of care for all members.