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Certified dog trainer
Barbara Walmer
Barbara Walmer

Barbara Walmer

Barbara has been training dogs for over 20 years, ranging from working in a vet clinic to animal shelter work (she was Department Head of Behaviour at the Calgary Humane Society for 16 years) to teaching group training classes and providing private behaviour consults. She is also a sought-after expert speaker in the dog training and shelter industry, and serves as an expert witness in dog bite and aggression legal cases.

Training Philosophy

Barbara believes the key to successful dog training is proper support of the humans who love the dogs.

Services

  • Private Dog Training
  • Calm Canines Training
  • Dog Training Classes
  • Puppy Training
  • Platinum Puppy Plus day school puppy training program

Certifications

  • Certified Professional Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA), via the Certification Council of Professional Dog Trainers
  • Certified Behaviour Consultant Canine Knowledge Assessed (CBCC-KA)
  • Associated Certified Dog Behaviour Consultant (ACDBC)
  • Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)
  • Fear Free Certified Practitioner
  • Tellington TTouch Practitioner, Level 2
  • TAGteach Level 1
  • Brene Brown Brave Leader Certified
  • John Maxwell Certified Speaker Coach
  • Member, Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
  • Member, Golden Retriever Club of America (GRCA)

Specializations

Serious behaviour issues, including aggression and leash reactivity, and puppy training and raising.

Training Methods

Positive reinforcement operant conditioning techniques, positive classical conditioning techniques

Social Media Links

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more training news!

Media Appearances

  • Petlynx Seminars, 2008
  • Saskatchewan SPCA Animal Welfare Conference, 2010
  • OPSCA Conference, 2014
  • CAAPDT Conference, 2015
  • Urban Animal Summit, 2015
  • Humane Canada (formerly CFHS) 2017 & 2018

We've got the answers for your questions

Who are the dog trainers listed on this page?

We have created a directory of licensed dog trainers specializing in positive reinforcement methods. These trainers are not affiliated with Dogo, and all information is gathered from publicly available sources. Each profile provides a brief overview of the trainer's experience and expertise.

How can I select the right trainer for my dog?

Start by evaluating your dog's needs and identifying your training objectives. Each trainer's profile provides insights into their areas of expertise. Match these with your dog's character and your goals to find the ideal fit.

How do I ensure these trainers are competent?

All trainers listed here are certified professionals with extensive knowledge of positive reinforcement techniques.

Why is positive reinforcement emphasized, and what is it?

Positive reinforcement centers on rewarding preferred behaviors, ensuring a pleasant learning journey for your dog. This humane approach is scientifically proven to be the most effective long-term training method, strengthening the bond between you and your pet. By consistently rewarding good behavior, your dog learns to associate actions with positive outcomes, leading to lasting improvements and a happier companion.

Are these trainers equipped to address specific behavioral problems?

Yes, they are. Trainers are adept in basic obedience or intricate behavioral challenges. Browse their profiles to identify a trainer who specializes in the particular issues you wish to address.

How do I initiate a training program with a trainer?

Simply click on the preferred trainer's profile to access their contact details. From there, you can get in touch to discuss your requirements and set up training appointments.

How do group sessions differ from private ones?

Group sessions offer a communal setting where your dog learns general obedience alongside other dogs. In contrast, private sessions grant focused attention, making them perfect for targeted behavior modifications or individualized training agendas.

Which training techniques do these trainers abstain from?

All trainers are committed to positive reinforcement techniques and steer clear of any harsh or punitive methods. Their primary goal is to make training a joyous journey for you and your dog.

When can I expect to see results using positive reinforcement training?

Results depend on factors like your dog's nature, the specific behaviors in question, and your training consistency. While many clients observe improvements in just a few sessions, it's crucial to be patient and persistent.

Can I attend a training session to observe before committing?

Reach out to the trainer you're interested in to discuss possibly attending a session. It's a great way to get a feel for their approach and see if it aligns with your expectations.

Want to train your dog independently?

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