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Certified dog trainer
Deborah J. DeSilva
Deborah J. DeSilva

Cadyville, NY

Deb DeSilva, a Certified Professional Dog Trainer - Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) under the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT), operates My Canine Companion, LLC. The training facility, Canine Adventure, located at 6140 Route 22, Plattsburgh, New York, offers engaging and easy training classes and private sessions focusing on fostering a harmonious bond between dogs and their owners.

Services range from Off-Leash Puppy and AKC STAR Puppy classes to Therapy Dog, Canine Companion performance courses in Trick Dog, Canine Freestyle, Nose Work, and Agility Fun Certifications. Deb specializes in positive reinforcement and force-free methods, utilizing equipment appropriate for these approaches. As a Canine Coach & Trainer, she concentrates on puppy and adolescent behavior, aiding pups in developing critical social skills through positive reinforcement.

The training facility serves Clinton, Franklin, and Essex counties of New York State. Deb's training philosophy centers on small group classes, private one-on-one instruction, live virtual training, behavioral consultations, and assessments. With 35 years of experience as a college professor in communication and a background in canine training and behavior, she offers dynamic and easy training methods to establish a strong bond with canine companions.

Puppy training begins as early as 8 weeks, including specialized Off-Leash Puppy Primary, Pre-Adolescent Puppy Training, and AKC S.T.A.R Puppy classes. For adolescent and adult dogs, classes are available in Canine Companion Basic through Advanced, AKC Canine Good Citizen, Therapy Dog, Canine Nose Work, Trick Dog, Canine Freestyle, and Agility.

Deb is the only Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed in northern New York, and she is an approved evaluator for Love on a Leash, a national AKC-approved therapy dog organization. Additionally, she serves as an evaluator for AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC), AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy, AKC Trick Dog, and Duke University’s Dognition Program. She is a certified Pet Dog Ambassador Instructor for the Pet Professional Guild and a member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).

Deb also held three terms as President of the Clinton County Canine Club. For more information, individuals can visit the website http://www.mycaninecompaniontraining.com or call (518) 293-7619. Training information for Canine Adventure can be found at http://www

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Our trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All our trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

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