Naturally Fluent Animal Training, Mobile, Grande Prairie, AB (2025)

10/14/2025

Coffee has nothing on Frenchie energy ☕🐾💥

09/24/2025

“Won’t my dog just bark until I give them a treat?”

One of the biggest myths about force-free training—right up there with “you’ll need treats forever” and “clickers are bribery.” 🙃

Here’s the truth: dogs are clever pattern-finders. They can chain behaviours, like:
🐾 Bark → get called over → get a treat
🐾 Jump up → get asked to sit → get a treat

Pretty soon, you’ve got a pup who barks, sits, and stares like: “Hello human… where’s my paycheck?” 🐶💰

✨ The good news: we can prevent (or fix) it!

1️⃣ Add a buffer. Don’t reward right after the bark. Ask for something in between, like “touch.” Reward the touch, then beat them to the next bark by rewarding the quiet moment. Slowly stretch out that quiet, then finish with a toy or braid.

2️⃣ Get ahead of it. Catch them before the bark or jump. Reward the calm, quiet approach the moment it happens.

Force-free training isn’t bribery—it’s timing, consistency, and teaching the behaviours we actually want. Treats and clickers? They’re just the tools to get us there. 💡🐾

09/22/2025

✨ The First Hurdle ✨

“Right dog, wrong time.” That’s what I told myself the first time I met Zara. One look into her eyes and I knew she was special… but with three kids, a new city, a business to rebuild, and boxes still stacked around the house, I thought: this is absolutely not the time to do something completely unmanageable.

Then came the adoption event. Somehow, Zara ended up at the other end of my leash. And wow. She welcomed everyone with calm sweetness, greeted dogs like a seasoned diplomat, and even patiently played with a group of puppies (who, spoiler alert, were hers!). Over a shared hamburger, I realized she had exactly what I look for in a working partner: confidence, balance, and a “bring it on” approach to the world.

Still, the timing couldn’t have been worse. Our new house isn’t fully fenced, and keeping Moo from wandering across the alley to her puppy friend was already giving me gray hairs. Normally, I avoid leashed intros unless both dogs are trained for it—but safety comes first, and this was my only option. I laid out every reason why taking her home right now was a terrible idea… and offered to foster her instead. The rescue agreed—though I’m pretty sure bets were quietly placed on how long it would take before I realized she was already my dog.

Bringing home a new dog is rarely seamless, even for trainers. Moo, my excitable teenager, forgot nine months of training in about thirty seconds. She wanted to play right now. Zara, steady and gentle, was polite but made it very clear she was not interested in that level of chaos. Their leashed introduction went about as well as you’d expect: one dog bouncing like a human-powered pogo stick, the other thinking, “thanks, but no thanks, I’ll pass.”

I knew both dogs were social, but they needed a better setup. So we loaded up the car—tuna fudge, scrambled eggs, and grated cheese in tow—and headed for the forest. Wide open space, fresh air, and natural distractions helped keep energy in check. Within minutes, Zara and Moo were trotting side by side, splashing in puddles, and testing the waters of a brand-new friendship.

Back home, the game wasn’t over. Zara was hesitant to explore new rooms, so I let her roam at her own pace while Moo spent the night with me in my room (the ultimate calm-down zone). Baby gates, calm rewards, and strategic patience became our daily rhythm. Slowly but surely, Zara started venturing further, and Moo began learning that calm attention was just as satisfying as wrestling nonstop.

It wasn’t perfect—but it was a start. And sometimes, in dog training (and life), a start is everything.

Stay tuned—the next post is all about the very first win that told me these two were going to figure it out. Spoiler: it’s cuteness overload. 🐾✨

09/19/2025

✨ Honest Moment ✨

There’s a big misconception out there: that dog trainers live with “perfect” dogs.

But here’s the truth—“perfect” doesn’t exist.

We all have things we’re working on, and our dogs are no different. Perfect is simply what works for your family. For some, that’s a boisterous greeting at the door, tail wags and jumping included. For others, it’s calm cuddles on the couch and keeping the wild side outdoors. There’s no right or wrong—it’s about what makes your home happy.

Even trainers face struggles. Our homes can be just as chaotic as anyone else’s. Our dogs have quirks, big personalities, and needs that don’t always fit into tidy boxes. And sometimes? Training takes the back seat to life.

When Zara arrived, our house flipped upside down. She’s timid and gentle, while Moo—our excitable teenager—shows love with the subtlety of a freight train. Penny, our 10-year-old Mastiff, was a breeze.

But Moo’s big energy didn’t exactly make Zara feel welcomed. It was more like being hugged by a stranger at the grocery store—well-intentioned, but way too much, way too soon.

Now, a week later, we’re starting to see the beginning of a beautiful friendship. But it’s been messy, imperfect, and very real. Some days I wore my trainer hat and things flowed. Other days I wore my “mom hat” and felt completely overwhelmed.

That’s why I’m sharing our journey—not just the highlight reel, but the struggles too. If you’re having a hard time with your dog, you’re not alone.

I hope Zara’s story, and everything we’re learning along the way, brings you a little comfort and support. 🐾💛

09/18/2025

Welcome Zara!

We’re thrilled to announce that Zara is officially part of the Naturally Fluent team! ✨ Our friends at Pawsitive Paws Rescue Ltd. knew she’d be the perfect fit, and we couldn’t agree more.

This little husky is more than just a beauty—she speaks “dog” fluently. With calm confidence and endless patience, she’s exactly the teammate we need to help pups (and their people) learn important skills.

Zara will kick off her teaching career in puppy class 🐾, but her future is wide open. Soon, she’ll be working with dogs (and humans!) who need a little extra guidance from the dog side of the classroom.

We’re beyond excited to have her on board… and yes, she’s already negotiated her salary in snacks. 🍖😉

09/01/2025

Reactivity is hard.

It’s an emotional journey for both the human and the dog.

Your dog is losing their mind, and all you want to do is help. Not knowing how can leave you frustrated and embarrassed.
Why can’t the world see the sweet, cuddly couch hippo you have at home?!

Choosing between group classes and private sessions is tough—they both have benefits.
That’s why we’ve completely redesigned our approach to reactive dog training.

✨ Introducing our new 7-week program:
• 3 private sessions to build solid foundations in your own environment (without the chaos of barking dogs or your pup thinking they’ve landed in Disneyland).
• 4 group classes where you’ll finally get to apply your skills with support, structure, and other guardians who get it.

Here’s the best part: everyone walks into class already knowing what to do. It’s like showing up to the exam with the answers. 😉

No more trying to learn a brand-new skill while your dog is over threshold and your brain is screaming “find the nearest exit!” That frustration? Gone.
⸻
New class times are live for all programs!
If the original schedule didn’t fit, check again—we’ve added evenings and more options based on your requests.

🐾 Skip the chaos. Start with the answers →

https://forms.gle/FUf5vmaCBHLbgXe3A

08/30/2025

🐶✏️ Sharpen those pencils (and stock up on treats)—dog school is back in session!

The kids are back in class, and now it’s your pup’s turn! 🎒🐾
Until the end of September, all group classes are 20% off!

Whether your dog’s aiming for teacher’s pet, needs to brush up on their manners, or just wants an excuse to wag their way through class—there’s a desk with their name on it.

✨ Fun. Positive. Science-based.
✨ A class for every dog and every family.

👉 Sign up today—our fall classes are filling up faster than recess snacks disappear! 🍎🐕

⚡️ PS: Got a reactive dog? Keep your eyes peeled tomorrow—we’re dropping new dates and times for our revamped reactivity classes, built around your requests.

08/19/2025

📣🐾 Attention, Agents-in-Training!
Our next mission is officially a GO: Class Registration is OPEN!

Whether you’ve got a rookie pup, a leash-pulling sidekick, or a reactive dog who needs a new strategy—there’s a mission designed just for you.

✅ Force-free, science-based training
✅ Real-life skills
✅ Ongoing support (yes—phone, text, email are included!)

🎯 Choose your mission:
🐕 Reactive Dog Class
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftHD-gC726MHeUG0PaqqOze1Yy2zImDL6paPr-uvCOTamnkw/viewform

🐾 Puppy Socialization
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxPTqgX0mW7-V4SRJxCN2wu33sX-_AKAns5sXTGj8VpWkJCw/viewform

🦴 Leash Skills Workshop
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScFI9A3RfSxKHEHcIurbfE2SErxQqc3cD0Si5GtDqpr7p-ahQ/viewform

🎓 Waggology
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAn1TBO9MoLJPCqsYqeI-l2FbN497EslVAmeejKIj93K9C7A/viewform

Classes launch soon at Pawsitive Kennels in Sexsmith—and spots vanish faster than a rogue tennis ball.

👉 Secure your place now, agent. Your mission (should you choose to accept it) starts here.

08/18/2025

🚨 Mission Briefing: Class Registration is NOW OPEN!

Got a puppy? A puller? A dog who loses it around others?
Sometimes training feels like an impossible mission—but with the right plan and support, you and your dog can succeed.

🌟 Classes run outdoors at Pawsitive Kennels in Sexsmith.

Your assignment, should you choose to accept it:

🐕 Reactive Dog Group Class
Think your dog could never handle a group class? Think again.
We start with a humans-only orientation so you feel confident before your dog even steps paw in the classroom.
📍 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftHD-gC726MHeUG0PaqqOze1Yy2zImDL6paPr-uvCOTamnkw/viewform

🐾 Puppy Socialization
New experiences each week, safe playtime, and guidance for all your puppy questions.
Build confidence, prevent fear, and lay the groundwork for a lifetime of good behaviour.
📍 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScxPTqgX0mW7-V4SRJxCN2wu33sX-_AKAns5sXTGj8VpWkJCw/viewform

🦴 Leash Skills Weekend Workshop
Tired of being dragged, tangled, or ignored?
This two-day workshop gives you hands-on tools and practice for smoother, stress-free walks.
📍 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScFI9A3RfSxKHEHcIurbfE2SErxQqc3cD0Si5GtDqpr7p-ahQ/viewform

🕵️‍♂️ Waggology
Our signature training system—science-based, force-free, and designed to make even the toughest missions possible. From puppy basics to advanced problem-solving, Waggology gives you the tools to understand your dog and work as a true team.
📍 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdAn1TBO9MoLJPCqsYqeI-l2FbN497EslVAmeejKIj93K9C7A/viewform

✨ Every class blends real-life learning, science-based methods, and a dash of humour.
Private add-ons are available if your dog needs extra support—and I’m just a call or message away for follow-up.

📅 Classes start soon and spots are limited.

🐾 Your dog’s next mission starts now.

08/14/2025

Once rescue gets in your blood… it finds you anywhere you go. 🐾

One of the many perks of holding classes at Pawsitive Kennels?
They run an incredible program for the dogs in their care—boarding guests and those still waiting for forever.
Bonus for me? I get to work with some of the amazing rescue dogs while they’re here.

That’s how I met Milo.
The sweetest Bully, learning how to be a gentleman.
He’s got sweeping women off their feet and snuggling down to a fine art.
And when he knows he’s nailed it? The Prince literally prances. 👑✨

Milo’s looking for a forever home where he can keep perfecting his gentleman skills—someone who loves a good cuddle and can appreciate a dog who takes pride in his prance.
If you think you might be his match, reach out to Pawsitive Paws Rescue Ltd. to meet this handsome boy.

08/12/2025

New home, new look, new domain — dogtraineralberta.ca.
Same Naturally Fluent vibes.

Training designed to fit your dog and your life

08/10/2025

Your dog isn’t dramatic… they just have big feelings. 🐾

When we say “reactive,” we’re talking about dogs who overreact to something in their environment — barking, lunging, growling, or even freezing.
It’s not about being “bad” or “dominant”… it’s about big feelings in a small furry body.

Reactivity is usually driven by:
✅ Fear or uncertainty – “I’m not sure if that’s safe, so I’ll make it go away.”
✅ Frustration – “I want to get to that thing, and this leash is ruining my plan!”
✅ Past experiences – “Last time I saw that, something scary happened.”

Why do they react so strongly?
Think of it like a pressure cooker. Every trigger adds steam. When it builds too high, p**f! — you’ve got a barking, lunging, spinning little kettle. Training helps release that pressure so your dog can think before they boil over.

What helps?
🐶 Distance – The further from the trigger, the easier it is to cope.
🐶 Safe spaces – Everyone needs a spot where they can relax and reset.
🐶 Positive associations – Pair the trigger with something your dog loves (treats, play, maybe a good butt scratch).
🐶 Predictability – The more they know what’s coming, the calmer they feel.

The good news?
Reactivity is not a life sentence. With patience, practice, and the right plan, your dog can go from “Oh no!!” to “I’ve got this.”

💬 Tell me: What’s your dog’s biggest trigger right now? Squirrels? Strangers? Other dogs? The mail carrier who dares to walk past their house?

Naturally Fluent Animal Training

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