My name is Ashley, I am the Owner of Malleable Mutts Dog Training.
I have always had a deep connection to the animal kingdom and a strong fascination with animal behaviour.
While completing a BSc. (Hons) in Zoology from UBCO, I began professionally working with dogs in 2016. After spending two years working and managing a boarding kennel and dog daycare facility, I decided I wanted to take a more proactive approach with dogs.
Learning about structured socialization led me to my mentor, Heather Beck, the owner of K9 Lifeline. She is a specialist in dog socialization and at the forefront for running structured daycare and boarding for all breeds and all behaviours. Heather has decades of experience working with dogs. She is a pioneer in her field and runs a very thorough training program for dog trainers who want to take their skills and business to the next level.
After learning about her programs designed for dog trainers, I reached out to attend. In November 2018, I flew to Draper, Utah for the hands-on dog training Shadow Program held by Heather Beck and Petra Sheeley.
I created Malleable Mutts when I got home from the shadow program to begin practicing and sharing what I learnt down in Utah. Working with dogs in my own company allows me the freedom to use modern and compassionate methods while incorporating all that I have learnt from working in many different dog related environments such as: boarding facilities, dog daycare, in-home visits, off-leash pack hikes, structured on-leash walks, agility (both urban and competitive), obedience, group workshops, and shelters.
Undergoing Heathers intensive training program gave me the tools to switch gears in my career. I began building Malleable Mutts while working full time as a Pack Leader for Rad Rover Dog Hiking. Working alongside the owner of Rad Rover, Jessica, allowed me to expand my knowledge and expertise in dog behaviour, communication, and pack dynamic.
Having experience in many different aspects of the dog world has given me a variety of insights and allows me to be a very well-rounded handler and trainer. I am continuously researching, practicing, and refining my methods. Dog training is a dynamic field and everyone (both dogs and humans alike) learn in different ways. My goal is to expand my knowledge and expertise so I have the ability to help as many people and dogs as possible. I do this by continuing my education and working alongside leaders in the dog training world.
In May of 2019, I attended the 3 day Relationship Based Behaviour Modification workshop held by Nelson Hodges, the creator of the Canine - Human Relationship Institute. Following that, in June 2019, I went down to Dickinson, Texas where Jason Vasconi, a specialist in outdoor socialization and owner of Transform My Dog, hosted Heather Beck and the K9 Lifeline team for her Dealing with Difficult Dogs workshop. Attending many different workshops held by world leaders in dog training has helped me develop my training packages and expand my knowledge and skills.
My dog Yama, along with all I continue to learn from Heather, Petra, Nelson, Jason, and Jessica inspires me to help others understand how to efficiently communicate with their dogs.
I believe in developing mutual understanding between humans and canines by creating relationships based on calmness, love, trust, and respect.
Let me help you build that relationship with your dog.
Give your dog the gift of a calm, happy mind by calling me today!
