I am an accredited dog trainer through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and a certified Family Dog Mediator through Kim Brophey's Applied Ethology LEGS course. I have also studied under Michael Shikashio CDBC, completing his Aggression in Dogs Master Course. I have been working with dogs and their families professionally since 2012, starting off working in the shelter environment and later doggy daycare, before switching to training full-time in 2017. I've worked with dogs with an assortment of problems, but I specialize in aggression. My science-based, positive reinforcement approach to training puts an emphasis on clear communication, compassion for handlers and dogs, and having fun with each other. I believe in looking at the whole picture for both humans and dogs to help them learn to live their best lives together.
Certifications:
IAABC-ADT, FDM
Dog training services include
Aggressive dog training
Reactive dog training
In home training
Off leash training
Puppy training
More info about Ashton Gray's dog training:
I work at the What a Great Dog Training Facility in Frisco and Richardson where I teach an assortment of manners/obedience and nose work classes. I also teach private lessons there with a focus on reactivity. I also do in-home training through RAD Animal Training, specializing in aggression cases.
Behavioral issue focus:
I primarily work with aggressive dogs, whether that aggression is directed at people or other dogs. This can be cases including leash reactivity, resource guarding, and more.
Dog training methods:
I tend to refer to myself as a Least Intrusive Minimally Aversive trainer. I focus primarily on teaching dogs what we want them to do while preventing them from doing what we don't want them to do. I start with a consult to talk with the owners about what is going on and gather information about their dog and their lives together. We will discuss putting a training plan together and adjust as needed.
Why I became a dog trainer:
My dog training journey started as many dog trainers do: with a dog that presented behavioral challenges. Potter, a coonhound mix with big feelings and an explosive personality, was my introduction to the world of behavior modification. Helping Potter learn how to navigate a world that overwhelmed him sparked a deep passion in me to want to help others with their own dogs.
My favorite part of being a dog trainer:
My favorite part of being a dog trainer is helping dogs and owners learn how to communicate and understand each other - getting conversations going between them so that they can live their best lives together.
My #1 dog training tip:
You can never over reward a behavior, but you can under reward.
David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development.
David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners.
Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature.
David is based in Salem, MA.
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