From Stress to Calm: Helping dogs learn to think and respond differently

What’s Your Superpower?

Recently, I was unexpectedly asked a powerful question:
“What is your superpower?”

At first, I was a little taken aback. But almost instantly, my mind honed in on something true for me:
Helping people to think differently.

It’s something I’ve always loved. As a coach and trainer of humans for many years, I’ve found joy in giving people the space to pause, reflect, and see things in a new light.

And now? I do the same—but with dogs.

Helping Dogs Think Differently

Through my work as a dog coach, I help dogs prepare to think differently about the everyday situations they struggle with.

For example, your dog doesn’t need to believe that everything is their business. They don’t have to worry about every noise, person, or passing dog. Together, we work on skills like disengagement, building confidence, and learning to stay calm in situations that once felt overwhelming.

Why I’m Not Your Typical Dog Trainer

Here’s where I do things differently:

• I don’t simply train your dog.

• I coach you to train your dog.

Because ultimately, your dog is your companion—not mine. The bond and trust between you and your dog is where the real transformation happens.

I give you the tools to help your dog think differently and, as a result, behave differently. Instead of waiting for tricky situations to happen and reacting in the moment (when stress is high and clarity is low), we prepare your dog ahead of time. This way, you both feel calmer, more confident, and better equipped.

Coaching Both Ends of the Lead

My approach empowers you to become your dog’s coach and cheerleader. Along the way, something special often happens—you start to think differently about your dog too.

Because when you shift how you see your dog’s struggles, you also shift how you support them. And that’s where the real magic of change begins.