In the world of dog training and behavior, I offer a different perspective—one grounded in empathy, experience, and science. My journey with dogs has been anything but conventional. It began with a traumatic loss of my first dog to a tragic event with another dog. That heart-wrenching experience sparked a passion for training dogs and education. Since then, I've worked with over 250 dogs and fostered more than 100, from the vet clinic to a goat farm, to grooming tables, and beyond. And of course, my life wouldn't be complete without the company of two senior dogs and a toddler—a true test of patience and flexibility!
I’ve been called radical, and I wear that label proudly. Why? Because my approach is different #fearfree #forcefree #choice #coorperativecare #enrichment—it's a mix of data-driven science and heartfelt empathy. Giving dogs choice and speaking up LOUDLY for them. I’m not just about training basic skills; I'm about understanding the whole dog, fulfilling their needs and making it all work within their human's schedules. I truly believe that when you see the dog as a living being with complex emotional and physical needs, everything changes. This is where my methods stand apart. I’m rooted in proven scientific principles—Pavlov and Skinner’s work on learning and behavior has shaped my foundation—but it’s not just about the science. It's about connection.
I've spent years learning, reading, and refining my techniques. And, like many in my field, I've struggled with balancing the scientific side of training with the emotional and empathetic side of dog behavior. That’s where Kim Brophey’s approach came into my life. As an award-winning canine behavior consultant, Kim developed a groundbreaking model called L.E.G.S., which stands for Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self. This model truly resonated with me because it acknowledges the whole dog—everything I had been working on but with structure, clarity, and a cool acronym!
Kim's insights have given me confidence in my approach and validation for my perspective. As someone who didn’t always fit into the traditional scientific dog training community #aba, I’ve always known deep down that I was making a difference—really seeing dogs as individuals. With the L.E.G.S. model, I now have a framework that puts the dog’s learning history, environment, genetics, and individuality at the forefront. This approach is what I believe will make the biggest impact for both dogs and their families. And now, as I continue learning from Kim’s Family Dog Mediator Certification and her work, I’m better equipped to help both dogs and their guardians in a more meaningful, compassionate way. #knowbetterdobetter
As we approach this holiday season, I want to give you the gift of knowledge. The knowledge that can transform your relationship with your dog. It’s time we look at the world from a different perspective and understand what’s really going on for them. 2024 world is much louder and busier than the 1980's, is it any wonder why they're struggling?
The Gift: I’m going to share with you one incredibly important video that has the power to change how you think about your dog and the way you live together. It may challenge you, it may make you uncomfortable, but trust me—your dog needs you to watch it. I need you to watch it. Because in doing so, you’ll be better equipped to be the person your dog thinks you are.
The science, the feeling, and the connection—all of these come together when you see your dog through a lens of empathy and understanding. Let’s stop treating them as mere companions to manage, and instead, let’s be the people who are truly worthy of their love and trust.
From me and mine, Happy Holidays to you and yours.
May we all continue to grow in knowledge and kindness, together.
For more information on Kim Brophey’s revolutionary L.E.G.S. model and her book Meet Your Dog, please visit Kim Brophey's website or check out her book.
Kim Brophey, CDBC, BA, is a nationally certified and award-winning canine behavior consultant, and the owner of the Dog Door Behavior Center in Asheville, North Carolina. Her work has inspired countless dog owners and trainers to approach canine behavior with a more holistic, empathetic mindset.
Be kind to your dog.
Be kind to yourself.
-Katie Powers, CPDT-KA, FFCT
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