Alex Onitsuka has spent countless thousands of hours in dog rescue and shelter environments since 2017, observing, studying, practicing, and learning from/with other humans and thousands of wonderful unique personalities of incredible canine teachers (a.k.a. dogs). He was born with a lot of sensitivities and for most of his life he’s had various difficulties with his health – as a result, he often wishes and dreams to simply be happy and comfortable in his own skin, to find peace in the present moment – this is something that he does his best to find for himself, and share with others, especially with very special shelter and rescue dogs.
Training Philosophy
Alex believes that dogs are sentient beings full of emotions and unique personalities. He emphasizes getting to know the dog in front of you, for who they are in the present moment, and doing his best to meet their individual needs. He uses Low Stress Handling and Fear Free practices to encourage empowerment, develop good decision-making habits, and ultimately find the path to their best life.
Services
Alex offers a variety of services, including:
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Dog Decompression Board and Train Reset Program:
A unique program that takes place in Burson, California on 40 acres of secluded/private grasslands and rolling hills. This program is designed to help dogs who are struggling with fear, anxiety, and stress. It includes training, decompression, and enrichment activities.
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“Quick Fix” Sessions:
30-60 minute sessions via video call or phone to troubleshoot specific dog behavior problems. These sessions include pre-session questions, a Zoom session, and a follow-up report.
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Adoption Support:
Alex provides post-adoption support to families who adopt dogs from The Dog Decompression Center.
Certifications
Alex holds the following certifications:
- Certified Behavior Consultant Canine – Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA)
- Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA)
- Low Stress Handling Certified-Silver (LSHC-S)
- Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCP)
- Certified Animal Reiki Practitioner
- Certified Puppy Behavior Consultant
- Certified Pet Food Nutrition Specialist
- Certified Raw Dog Food Nutrition Specialist
- Certified Advanced Canine Nutrition Specialist
Specializations
Alex specializes in working with dogs who are struggling with fear, anxiety, stress, and aggression. He also has experience working with shelter and rescue dogs, and dogs with separation anxiety.
Training Methods
Alex uses a variety of training methods, including:
- Positive reinforcement
- Low Stress Handling
- Fear Free practices
- Classical and operant conditioning
- Clicker training
- Food rewards
- Play rewards
- Verbal praise
- Shaping
- Desensitization and counterconditioning
