Back to city
Certified dog trainer
Sylvia Currie, MA, BEd, CDBC, TAKL, SA Pro Trainer
Sylvia Currie, MA, BEd, CDBC, TAKL, SA Pro Trainer

Sylvia Currie

Sylvia Currie is a dog trainer, behaviour consultant, learning designer, and founder of Being With Dogs. She has over 30 years experience in curriculum development, learning design, instructor support, and teaching. She has designed, taught and facilitated hundreds of workshops, courses, and seminars — both online and on the ground.

Training Philosophy

Sylvia Currie practices positive reinforcement training methods and fully complies with the codes of conduct of professional organisations of which she is a member:

  • International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) Statement
  • Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT) LIMA Compliance
  • Pet Professional Guild Code of Ethical Conduct
  • CBATI-KSA Code of Conduct
  • Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers (CAPPDT) Code of Ethics (PDF)
  • Professional Animal Care and Training Association of British Columbia PACTA BC Code of Ethics

Services

Sylvia Currie offers a variety of services, including:

  • Behaviour Modification: Customized training and behaviour modification remotely or at a mutually convenient location. Private in-person sessions are scheduled weekdays.
  • Separation Anxiety Training: A two-phase program that includes weekly Zoom sessions, unlimited email and text support, and customized training plans.
  • Breakfast Club: A regularly scheduled gathering for caregivers and their dogs to address issues related to fear, reactivity, frustration, and focus.
  • Learn to teach people: Sylvia can help you plan, develop, and teach your dog training classes and programs.

Certifications

Sylvia Currie holds the following certifications:

  • Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
  • Accredited Dog Trainer by Kay Laurence (TAKL) through Learning About Dogs
  • Certified TTouch Practitioner through Tellington TTouch Canada
  • Separation Anxiety Pro Behaviour Consultant (CSAP-BC by Julie Naismith
  • Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor – Knowledge & Skills Assessed (CBATI-KSA) through Grisha Stewart Academy

Specializations

Sylvia Currie specializes in the prevention and treatment of separation anxiety, reactivity, and aggression.

Training Methods

Sylvia Currie practices positive reinforcement training methods.

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?

Dogo logo

Dogo offers comprehensive and personalized dog training programs, designed by certified trainers, to address specific behavior issues or teach new skills to dogs of all ages and breeds.

Get Dogo App
Start Training
Best dog training app