Training Courses
All coures can be self study, or paired with
Coaching with Heather for step by step support and guidence.
Comprehensive Courses
Targeted Mini Courses
Workshop focusing on teaching Wait at thresholds (gates, crates and doors), and on off-leash hikes for functional cooperation
Teaching your dog how to Check In is the most important skill they can learn! Before they can successfully come when called, or walk on a loose leash, they need to know how to (and love) Checking In with us and cooperating.
What makes this different than traditional training programs?
Help with what you need the most: skills and a plan for relief right away, and a long-term plan for lasting behavior change.
A coach to guide you through, and stick with the best training plan to reach your goals
Individualized training support from anywhere in the world
New skills and games to keep your pup mentally exercised and consistently improving
Not just a library of content to sort through and hope is right for your dog
It’s the best of all worlds. One-on-one feedback, a custom training program for your dog, a community to learn together, a library of online resources, training challenges, and more.
The Details:
Cancel or change levels anytime, no commitment is needed to get started.
All programs start with tools and skills to help right away.
For reactive dogs and other behavior training, I recommend starting with two to three months of Reactive Focus or Connect+ so we can meet twice a month, then moving to Connect and meeting once a month.
Add on an extra 1:1 in-person session anytime for $145, or a Remote Session for $100
Your membership fee won’t ever change as long as your membership stays active
All 1:1 sessions are self-scheduled. Sessions do not roll over to the next month.
I’ll email (or text via WhatsApp, depending on your preference!) each week for a check-in to help keep everyone on track
Videos can be sent through WhatsApp, Google Photos, Dropbox, or your preference
In-person lessons are available at our Ben Lomond training field, Mon-Thurs 9am-1pm. Zoom sessions are available Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. At times I may be traveling, Zoom sessions are still available and are an excellent way for us to keep up with progress, adjust training plans and learn new info.
If scheduling doesn’t match up due to a trainer’s change in schedule during travel, membership levels can be changed to reflect actual 1:1 meetings.
Who am I?
Hi, I’m Heather!
I’m a Certified Pet Dog Trainer and Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA)
But I work with dogs and people far beyond the textbook.
I’ve traveled North America backpacking, climbing, hiking, and seeking out alpine lakes with my dogs. I’ve competed across the US at the national level and in Europe in IGP (Schuztund, a dog sport comprised of obedience, protection, and tracking phases).
But most of all, I strive to create a fulfilling life for my dogs and myself. We work through behavior problems, funny personality quirks, and individual preferences together. I currently live and travel with two high-drive Dutch Shepherds, Tango and Archer. You’ll also see them as neutral dogs for helping teach reactive dogs, and on the couch - upside down and snoring.
BS Environmental Sci and Policy, Minor in Wildlife and Society and GIS from the University of Maryland * Trish King’s Academy of Dog Behavior * Certified Pet Dog Trainer, Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) * Certified Behavior Consultant Canine (CBCC) * 10+ years of professional experience * 20 years in fostering/rescue
I believe that behavior can ALWAYS improve. And sometimes just a few lessons isn’t enough to get your pup to their potential. There’s a better way for us to connect, train and learn. While there is a great time and a place for group classes, or just a couple of private training sessions, I've always felt like we could be doing things *better* than our traditional models of dog training.
When we work together, I’m here to help you learn the skills, concepts, mechanics, and what your dog is thinking! Like clock-work, about a year into training together clients say: “It’s clicked! We’re working together now!”
It takes time to absorb new information, and to also then be able to translate it to your dog. With consistency, seeing people get there with their dog and to really understand each other and be able to communicate and work through anything together in real-time, successfully - it’s what it’s all about.
“I can’t give Heather enough praise for all her support and expertise. Heather is super patient and calm even in a tense situation.
In a short amount of time, I have seen a huge difference in my dog’s behavior. Not only has Heather taught my pup, but she has given me the tools I need to have a better relationship with him. ”
Tango
2018 and 2019 Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund National Champion
2019 Vice World Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund Champion
2022 World Dutch Shepherd Schutzhund Championships competitor
FH1 Advanced Tracking - 3 years
French Ring Brevet with a perfect 100pt score
French Ring 1 title
Nosework Odor Recognition Tests - 6mo
Rally Novice Obedience - 9mo
Preferred Novice Obedience - 10mo
NACSW Nosework 1 - 12mo
NACSW Nosework 3 Elite
“We have a high energy rescue pup and I don’t know where we’d be without Heather at Clear Mind Canine. She made training fun for the dog and us, and helped us build a strong bond. Our pup went from “wild” to the best dog ever, one who accompanies us on adventures and who charms pretty much everyone he meets.”