Amy Di Piazza has been training dogs since 2012 when she graduated from The Animal Behavior College as a Certified Dog Trainer. She has worked frequently with local rescues as a foster and has a passion for all dogs, but especially the hunting and working breeds. She has completed The Aggression in Dogs Master course created by world renowned behavior trainer Michael Shikashio and has studied extensively to learn and utilize the most up to date, humane methods of working with problem behaviors. She continually updates her education throughout the year to be able to always offer the most current techniques available for helping you and your dog with problem issues.
Training Philosophy
Amy believes in training your dog to thrive in a human world. Reliable training can be achieved without using punitive methods. She teaches with consistency, commitment and the types of reinforcement that your dog finds rewarding. She is a certified Fear Free Trainer, and trains using reinforcement your dog finds to be rewarding. She is a huge advocate for coaching guardians with training their own service dogs to help build a strong team.
Services
Amy offers a variety of services, including:
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Private Coaching:
One-on-one sessions where you and your dog have 100% of the trainer’s attention.
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Day Training:
Multiple days a week training for dogs with busy owners or behavior issues.
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Structured Classes:
Predesigned curriculum for puppies, socialization outings, basic and advanced obedience, and specialty classes.
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Behavior Modification:
Management, commitment and patience are required to resolve aggressive behaviors. Amy works with a variety of issues, including Stranger Danger, Resource Guarding, Reactivity, Shy and Fearful behaviors, Separation Anxiety, Husbandry Issues, Dog to Dog Aggression, and Dog to Human Aggression.
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Behavior Consultation:
An in-depth questionnaire and interview, management strategies, and assessment of necessary handling skills.
Certifications
Certified Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) from The Animal Behavior College, Fear Free Certified Trainer, member of the IAABC and the APDT
Specializations
Problem behaviors, including reactivity, separation anxiety, dog to human aggression, and shy, fearful behaviors. Service dog training.
Training Methods
Positive reinforcement training, Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive (LIMA) training hierarchy, Compatible Cue Training
Customer Reviews
Neri and Andy Say
“We had an excellent experience with Amy from Essential Canines. She is knowledgeable, experienced and very positive in her approach…”
Patti and Duke Say
“Amy is a wonderful teacher and trainer. She is professional and skilled in her work. It is a good learning experience for humans and dog…”
