Herding Breed Behavior Specialist
When you’ve got big plans for life with your herding breed dog but their reactivity is getting in the way, it can be tough to navigate all the information and advice out there. So it’s a good thing you stumbled upon my page. This is my specialty! And together we can get you and your dog back on track to that life you’ve dreamed of.
Certified
Suzanne holds a certificate in Applied Animal Behavior from the University of Washington and is a Family Dog Mediator (FDM).
Ethical Training based on Science
Suzanne adheres to the Least Inhibitive, Functionally Effective (LIFE) Model in her training practices.
Ethological Perspective
Behavior is a product of a dog’s L.E.G.S.: learning, environment, genetics, and self. Suzanne takes all of these into account when creating training plans.
Does your herding breed dog…
- chase cars, bikes, skateboards, runners, and other fast-moving objects or animals?
- try to control family members or pets?
- bark at all the things in the neighborhood?
- nip at the feet or legs of people or animals?
- use aggressive displays to protect family, territory, or toys?
These are just some of the ways that reactivity can show up in herding breed dogs. If this sounds like your dog, my customized Private Coaching programs can help!
Services
Private Coaching
In-person training: just you, your dog, and Suzanne. One size does not fit all.
- Resolve reactivity and other big feelings with a comprehensive approach.
- Practical training for manners and life skills based on your needs and goals.
- NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. Follow the link below to be placed on the waitlist.
Group Classes
This is the place to go when your dog is ready to train in more distracting environments. While Suzanne specializes in herding breeds, all dog breeds or mixes are welcome to join. Class selection varies throughout the year.
Virtual Programs
Stay tuned for my new program. The Herding Hooligans Membership will include group chats and online video lessons. I’m so excited about this!!!
Webinars
Live and on-demand webinars are a great way to learn what it’s like to work with Suzanne. Take deep-dives into a variety of topics related to living with and training herding breed dogs. You can even request a topic if you don’t see what you’re looking for.
Serving the Heart of the Valley in Oregon
Including Corvallis, Philomath, and Albany
Suzanne Dubnicka
PhD, CPDT-KA, FDM, UW-AAB, CPCFT
I am a dog nerd. And I want you and your herding dog to live your best lives together. Trust me when I say that I know how hard that can be. But I know how to make it a hell of a lot easier!
I didn’t start my professional dog training career intending on working with herding breed dogs. But I am all in now. Herding dogs kind of do that to you. You can read more about how I got started here.
As a dog nerd, I learn all I can about dog training and behavior, and about herding breed dogs in particular, and I apply what I learn. Then I use this wealth of knowledge and experience to solve your herding dog’s behavioral challenges, especially reactivity. I also hold a doctoral degree in statistics from The Pennsylvania State University which tells you that I am willing to dig deep to solve those challenges in the best way possible.
Less formally, I enjoy reading, knitting, running, hiking, and helping my own dogs live their best lives!
That’ll Do!
Are you an engaged owner who’s committed to solving your dog's big feelings (aka reactivity) about the environment? I might just be the dog training coach for you!
In short, Suzanne gave me my dog back!
My Shadow first met Suzanne when she was a 10 week old pup. From her first day in puppy class, through adolescent class and into foundations, Shadow grew from the shy border collie that wouldn’t move from underneath my feet into a confident dog who was eager to try new things, and Suzanne was right there to guide her on her journey.
Sadly, at just 9 months of age, Shadow suffered a torn ligament in her hind leg which meant surgery and a long period of cage rest and rehabilitation. Lucky for us, Suzanne was ready with tricks and brain games to keep Shadow busy while she recovered.
When Shadow was physically ready to attend group classes again she was reactive to dogs and most other humans. That lead to private behavior adjustment therapy lessons on the cold Kansas prairie in February. Before long, it was spring and Shadow trusted human’s again. By summer’s end, Shadow was back in group classes!
It was sad to see Suzanne move so far away. Kansas’ loss is Oregon’s gain. I think of Suzanne every time Shadow crosses a new milestone. (Shadow just rocked a recall class so well that I can let her off leash to chase a frisbee with her sister!)
I like to joke that I’m leaving Shadow to Suzanne in my will.