I love dogs.
I know – it’s what every person that works with dogs says.
I think what makes me different is that I also love helping people who love their dogs work better together. That and I as you’ll see below, I’ve spent a lot of time getting what I do right. No cookie cutter solutions or standard “alpha dog” theories involved.
Hi. I’m Lisa Marie
I am a Canine Insights Coach, Dog Trainer, or Dog Decoder (whatever title you like) and I’ve spent years helping people understand their dogs in a way that feels natural and compassionate. I believe every dog is doing the best they can with the information they have and when we learn to see things from their point of view, real change happens.
I have watched dog parents try their absolute best while feeling confused, frustrated, or like they were somehow failing. Not because they didn’t love their dogs but because most training approaches focus on techniques instead of understanding. They are cookie cutter approaches that leaves little room for all the other variables that impact learning.
Once I started looking at behavior through the dog’s point of view, everything shifted. Challenges made more sense. Solutions became clearer and the relationship between dog and human grew calmer, easier, and more connected. That’s why I do this work. To help you understand your dog in a way that feels compassionate, practical, and deeply humane.
GREAT LISA MARIE…
so you love dogs but can you really help?
Many trainers just decided one day that since they’ve owned dogs (maybe even a lot of them) that makes them a trainer. I don’t agree and I’ve spent many years learning, gaining certifications, and honing what I do. I started with a certification from a program built by Karen Pryor and Jean Donaldson.
What I Believe
My work is rooted in positive reinforcement and the science of how dogs think, feel, and process the world around them. I’m not just a “cookie pusher” though as that’s only the starting point. I also believe dogs learn best when they feel safe, supported, and understood.
How Do I know
I’ve been training dogs and their people for more than 25 years. My path started with degrees in sociology and veterinary technology along with a career in consumer research. A combination that taught me as much about human behavior as canine behavior, and how deeply the two are connected.
The Proof
Train/Foster Service Dogs
Formerly CPDT and NADOI Certified
AKC STAR Puppy and CGC Evaluator
PetSmart Certified Trainer
AKC Breed Club Trainer: GSDC of Twin Cities, Heart of MN Pug Club
Invisible Fence Trainer*
HGTV Pet Expert
*I don’t typically work with e-collars however in my area, these fencing systems are popular and many of my clients were having difficulties so I worked with the local IF office to bring a different approach to the training for my clients to lessen the negative effects for their dogs.
MY PARTNERS
I know what I know thanks to some of the best dogs I’ve ever known.
Fonzie is the black Labrador Retriever. He is a go getter, with a drive that doesn’t quit! Raised as a service dog, all he wants to do is help. When he isn’t helping out, his favorite thing to do is play ball, swim, and bring me my shoes. He is an AKC Canine Good Citizen.
Yale is a yellow Labrador Retriever. He is very laid back, barely barks and enjoys a good afternoon on a sunny deck. If he isn’t doing that, you might find him by the fireplace or perhaps hanging out with friends at the local dog park. He is an AKC Canine Good Citizen.
Book a Strategy Session
If you need help, feel free to book a strategy session or check to see which of my paid or free resources might be helpful. You can email me too if you have other questions.
