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!
Kellie on the beach, wearing all black and leaning over to pet Smithers, a medium sized white/tan dog wearing a harness and an orange long line
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.
Aversive methods suppress behavior -
we’re going to change it.
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)
Gonzo Dog believes in diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as the intersection of human rights with animal welfare. I am committed to creating a safe, inclusive space that celebrates individual uniqueness and welcomes every race, gender, ethnicity, religion, orientation, ability, age (and dog breed!).