My Story
The Balanced Canine all began because I was struggling to train my second dog, Ace - a German Shepherd with no food or toy drive. I spent days researching how to train dogs before coming to the conclusion that there was no single “correct way” to train a dog. My research led to coutnless ways to reward a dog, but I was still at a loss in training a dog that didn’t like food! I stumbled upon several Instagram accounts of trainers using “balanced” training methods. As I studied these trainers’ accounts, I became familiar with operant conditioning - the use of rewards AND punishment to modify behavior. I spent the better part of 2 years studying these trainers and doing my own research on balanced dog training.
In 2017, I decided to give it a try with a few friends’ dogs and family members’ dogs. With the success my “clients” were yielding from my guidance when their own internet research left them hopeless, I went for the big deal and officially started my business in the summer of 2018. My personal dog, Grayson, has been through every step of my journey - even my mistakes!
In 2022 I had to rebuild my business from what seemed like the ground up. Thanks to faithful clients that awaited my availability to open up and offer boarding again, business took off and I am thrilled to be able to offer help to dog owners who have troubled dogs!
How I do it.
Every training program begins with a detailed questionnaire to help me get to know your dog, your family and household dynamic, and talk about the best plan moving forward to ensure that we can reach your goals.
In order to have a happy and balanced dog, it is important that you commit to meeting your dog’s needs every day. This looks like daily play WITH your dog, structured exercise, and working for their meals - yes, ditch the bowl!
Once we establish a routine that will work for you and your household, we begin working on leash skills right away so that your dog can learn to follow you as their leader and you can enjoy walks with your dog as quickly as possible. Then we’ll layer in proper play skills so you and your dog can start to build a strong bond, and we’ll finally learn all the obedience you wish to teach your dog.
If you’re struggling with reactivity, resource guarding, anxiety, fear, or aggression; I can help you! The Balanced Canine training programs address the dog’s state of mind throughout training to ensure your dog is not only learning in the best way possible but also learning how to navigate life in real-time.
Meet the Team
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Ariel Scott
FOUNDER | OWNER | LEAD TRAINER
She has a unique passion for dogs and making sure they live their best life.
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