About Gonzo Dog

Congratulations on taking the plunge and seeing what Force-Free, Positive Reinforcement dog training and behavior modification is all about with Gonzo Dog! 

Hi, my name is Kellie! I'm a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC), and I am so excited to introduce you to the world of science-based and humane behavior modification! Force-Free (FF), Positive Reinforcement (R+) methods offer an incredible opportunity to deepen your bond with your dog and learn how to shape behavior you don't want to see into behavior you do - making life easier for everyone involved. 

I'm here to establish a bridge of understanding between you and your dog, empowering you to work together as a unified team!

Like many of you, I was the lifelong guardian of a highly anxious and reactive dog in a bustling, trigger-filled city. Learning to work with Cbass (2009-2021) using R+, FF training instilled a deep understanding and empathy for both dogs and their guardians. That experience fueled my passion to begin a career as a dog behavior consultant in 2014. I understand what drives dogs. recognize the gaps that lie in our understanding and communication with them as humans, and I know how to teach all of this with a blend of fun, humor, compassion and results!

My specialization lies in adult behavioral issues such as shyness/fear, reactivity, fear-based aggression and biting, stranger danger, general and separation anxiety, resource guarding and more. Having spent the last 13 years as a dog behavior consultant in New York City, I'm well-versed in urban management and leash reactivity. I tackle all of these challenges without the use of aversive methods or tools (e.g. prong or choke collars, e-collars, spray bottles, etc.) as I have learned from personal experience these are temporary “fixes” that can worsen the situation over time. 

You’re about to make a lifetime investment in training your dog and helping them thrive in a human world!

Learn how to:

• Start working with your dog as a cohesive team

• Decode canine body language and understand what your dog is saying/feeling

• Understand the way dog brains work (Canine Learning Theory)

• Meet your dog’s needs to ensure your needs can be met too!

• Build your/dog’s confidence, communication and skill set

• Modify your dog’s behavior without resorting to force or fear

• Develop management and training plans to overcome obstacles

So, are you ready to learn how to do all this and more? Let's arrange a virtual consultation! Fill out the contact form to share your challenges and find out how I can help!

Credentials:

• IAABC Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)

• [Previously] CCPDT Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)

Select List of Continuing Education:

• Canine Misbehavior Modification with Pat Miller, CBCC-KA, and Trish King, CDBC (2023)

• Social Justice: Cultivating Equity for All Dog Professionals with Katherina Alvarez, PhD (2023)

• 3 Strategies to Uplevel Your Consulting Skills to Solve Behavior Challenges with Allie Bender, CDBC (2023)

• Play it Cool (canine body language and dog-dog play) with Ali Sutch, KPA-CTP, CCUI (2023)

• Kids, Race and Positive Reinforcement with Linda Randall, DVM (2021)

• International Dog Trainers Winter Summit (2020)