Thinking about getting a puppy? First-time puppy parent? There is no better time to begin your dog-training journey than right now. As a Certified Professional Dog Trainer specializing in early puppy development, I use only modern, science-backed methods—none of the outdated “alpha,” dominance, “energy,” or other woo-woo nonsense that confuses owners and harms dogs. Your puppy deserves better—and so do you!

Good habits are much easier to build than bad habits are to break. From day one, I’ll show you how to nurture intrinsic motivation, thoughtful behavior, and emotional regulation. Together, we’ll lay the foundation for a calm, confident, and happy companion who doesn’t require constant micromanagement. With early positive reinforcement, your puppy grows into a dog who naturally wants to make good choices.

You might be wondering: What exactly is positive reinforcement? Does it mean ignoring bad behaviors? And why avoid punishment if it stops unwanted behavior?

“Positive” is not “permissive”—we absolutely address unwanted behavior. But instead of intimidation or physical corrections, we guide, instruct, redirect, and generously reward the behaviors we want to see. Science shows that reward-based systems produce dogs who love to learn, feel safe, and happily listen. Punishment-based methods undermine trust and suppress learning. They create dogs who operate out of fear rather than understanding. My approach is choice-based and relationship-centered; allowing puppies to explore, learn, and occasionally make mistakes without fear of harsh consequences.

Think back to your school days. Who was your favorite teacher—the warm, encouraging one or the rigid, punitive one? What qualities made you feel safe, confident, and eager to learn? Now consider the role you want to play in your dog’s life. The relationship you build is shaped by the training approach you choose. Positive reinforcement is the path to a well-mannered companion and a deep, lasting bond built on trust.

Schedule a pre-adoption counseling session and learn the gold-standard for raising a thriving, resilient puppy. You’ll know exactly what to expect when you bring your new family member home—and exactly how to set them up for success. Don’t be misled by untrained, unscientific “professionals” on the internet. With Art & Science Dog Training, you’ll go from confusion to clarity, guided by a certified professional using clear, evidence-based methods—not myths, trends, or pseudoscience.

Book your pre-adoption counseling session today. I can’t wait to help you welcome your new best friend!