MEET OUR TEAM
Customized training tailored to you and your dog
MATT DELLAIRA
CERTIFIED DOG TRAINER
Matt brings over 11 years of experience in dog training, having honed his skills under the guidance of renowned trainer Joel Silverman. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with numerous trainers and veterinarians, carefully selecting the most effective techniques from each mentor. As the head trainer at K9 Learning Academy, Matt has developed a distinctive training approach known as vocalized coaching. He prioritizes staying current with the latest methods and nutritional advice by regularly consulting with local veterinarians, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of every dog he works with.
What truly distinguishes Matt from other trainers is his belief that successful training is a collaborative journey between the owner and their dog. Many clients have noted that dogs naturally gravitate towards him, often responding to his presence without the need for verbal commands. Unlike traditional trainers, Matt employs a largely non-verbal approach, focusing on shaping desired behaviors while ignoring unwanted ones. This innovative method allows him to offer a variety of training options, including in-home sessions, group classes, and board-and-train programs, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each dog.
The cornerstone of Matt's training philosophy is the active involvement of the owner throughout the entire process. Each of his trainers works closely with the pet owner, demonstrating the techniques used to train their dog and ensuring that they continue to practice these skills long after the sessions have ended. By recognizing that every dog is an individual with distinct needs, Matt creates customized training plans that foster a deeper bond between the owner and their pet. This personalized approach is a key factor in the remarkable success of his training programs, making them not just effective, but also enriching for both dogs and their owners.
Eric Gray
CERTIFIED DOG TRAINER
Erica is at the helm of our New Jersey division and is celebrated as one of our premier trainers. Her extensive background in working with both dogs and their human companions has equipped her with the skills necessary to deliver exceptional results consistently. Erica's dedication to her craft is evident in her proactive approach to professional growth; she frequently participates in advanced training courses, collaborates with fellow trainers at Duke University, and diligently keeps abreast of the latest scientific research in animal behavior and training methodologies.
Her training philosophy is rooted in the principles of positive reinforcement, which emphasizes the importance of rewarding desirable behaviors rather than focusing on negative actions. This approach not only fosters a more enjoyable training experience for the dogs but also cultivates a stronger bond between pets and their owners. Erica understands that every dog is an individual with unique needs and temperaments, and she skillfully adapts her techniques to suit each canine's personality, ensuring that the training is both effective and compassionate.
Moreover, Erica places a strong emphasis on educating clients alongside their pets, which enhances their understanding of the training process. By involving owners in the learning journey, she empowers them to reinforce the skills their dogs acquire, leading to lasting behavioral changes. This holistic approach not only benefits the dogs but also enriches the lives of their owners, creating a harmonious relationship built on trust and mutual respect. With Erica's guidance, clients can expect not just immediate results but a foundation for ongoing success in their training endeavors.
Stuart Ringelheim
CERTIFIED DOG TRAINER
Stuart has dedicated the past six years to working with dogs, honing his skills as a trainer and communicator. His ability to connect with both clients and their canine companions sets him apart in the field. He takes the time to thoroughly explain the intricacies of dog training, delving into the reasons behind certain behaviors and offering effective solutions for addressing unwanted actions. With certifications from renowned trainers Matt Dellaira and Joel Silverman, Stuart brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his practice. His experience spans hundreds of dogs, allowing him to develop a keen understanding of the unique needs associated with various breeds.
In his training sessions, Stuart focuses on a range of areas, including basic obedience, advanced techniques, and working with reactive dogs. He emphasizes the importance of patience, guiding clients through the process with a philosophy rooted in positive reinforcement. This approach not only fosters a trusting relationship between the dog and owner but also encourages lasting behavioral changes. By prioritizing clear communication and a compassionate training style, Stuart empowers dog owners to achieve their goals, ensuring that each training experience is both effective and enjoyable for all involved.
CHELE DUNN
CERTIFIED DOG TRAINER
Chele comes with a world of experience and has been working for over 30 years in the pet industry and we are happy to have her join our team. She has trained and evaluated 1,000's of dogs and is a specialist in body language and dog socialization. She is Passionate. Patient. Persistent. Pet-lover. These are just a few of the characteristics that describe her. She knows each animal is different, and Chele works with you to give them the specific guidance they need. Whether you’re thinking about getting an animal, have a new pet, or already own a pet with behavioural problems, She is here to help.
