CPR Canine Training is more than just a dog training service. It's a relationship-based, values-driven philosophy that emphasizes clarity, communication, and compassion. Founded on the core principles of being Calm in presence, Present in connection, and Respectful in practice, CPR Canine was built to support both dogs and their handlers on a path toward mutual understanding and lasting behavioral transformation.

At the heart of CPR Canine is a belief that training should never be about dominance or control. Instead, it should be about cooperation, connection, and clear communication. Every dog is treated as an individual, with unique needs, learning styles, and emotional experiences. Our goal is to empower both dogs and humans to thrive together using methods that align with modern behavioral science and ethical training standards.

• Calm: We regulate arousal and focus before we teach. Calm dogs are more receptive to learning, and calm handlers set the tone for growth.
• Present: We break down behaviors into teachable moments and allow time for progress. There are no shortcuts in effective training and connection.
• Respectful: We respect the dog’s communication, boundaries, and emotional state. Training is a two-way relationship.

1. Positive Reinforcement Training (R+)
Core Idea: Reward behaviors you want to see more of.

• Uses treats, praise, play, or access to rewards to strengthen desirable behaviors.
• Builds confidence, motivation, and emotional safety.
• Supported by AVSAB, IAABC, CCPDT, and other major organizations.
  Why it works: Dogs repeat behaviors that result in good outcomes. Reinforcement is how all animals — including humans — learn best.
   

2. Marker-Based Training (Clicker/Verbal Markers)
Core Idea: Use a clear signal (like a click or “yes!”) to mark the exact moment a dog performs the desired behavior, followed by a reward.

• Increases timing precision and clarity.
• Helps dogs learn faster and with less frustration.
  Why it works: The marker bridges the gap between behavior and reward, making learning cleaner and faster.
   

3. Shaping and Capturing
Core Idea: Build complex behaviors step by step by reinforcing tiny approximations or by capturing natural behavior as it happens.

• Great for advanced training and cooperative behaviors.
• Promotes independent thinking and problem-solving.
  Why it works: It gives dogs agency in the learning process and rewards their effort and creativity.
   

4. Desensitization & Counterconditioning (DS/CC)
Core Idea: Change emotional responses by pairing a trigger (like a scary noise or person) with something positive.

• Used for fear, anxiety, and reactivity.
• Gradual exposure + positive reinforcement changes the dog’s feelings, not just the behavior.
  Why it works: Emotions drive behavior. When you shift the emotional state, the behavior naturally follows.
   

5. Relationship-Based & Consent-Based Training
Core Idea: Respect the dog’s body language and emotions, and train through mutual trust, choice, and communication.

• Common in cooperative care, service dog work, and therapy dog prep.
• Encourages dogs to participate voluntarily.
  Why it works: Dogs learn best when they feel safe and understood. Consent builds deeper engagement and reliability.
   

6. Management & Environment Setup
Core Idea: Prevent unwanted behavior by modifying the environment (gates, crates, long lines, etc.)

• Sets the dog up for success while training is in progress.
• Reduces rehearsal of unwanted behavior.
  Why it works: Dogs can’t learn effectively if they’re constantly put in situations they’re not ready for.
   

7. Functional Reinforcement
Core Idea: Use real-life rewards that matter to the dog (access to play, greeting, sniffing, resting) to reinforce behavior.

• Especially useful for leash manners, reactivity, and impulse control.
  Why it works: When behavior gets the dog what they want, it becomes self-reinforcing.
   

• Aversive-based methods (punishment without learning)
• Dominance theory / pack leader models (debunked and outdated)
• Flooding (exposing dogs to high-stress stimuli too soon or too long)
   

At CPR Canine, we believe the most effective dog training is:

• Rooted in behavioral science
• Guided by empathy
• Tailored to the individual
   

We focus on building trust, cooperation, and communication using proven, humane methods — while remaining flexible and adaptable to real-world needs.

• Positive reinforcement as the foundation of behavior change
• LIMA (Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive) ethical standards
• Emotional safety and trust-based training as the heart of lasting transformation
   

Tools are just that — tools. Not good or bad by default. When used responsibly, they can enhance safety, clarity, and freedom.

We introduce tools when they:

• Support a specific lifestyle goal (public access, hiking, service work)
• Increase clarity in advanced training
• Are introduced after a behavior is taught and understood
• Are used by handlers who are educated, calm, and respectful
   

We do not use tools to:

• Intimidate or punish
• Force compliance
• Replace proper training
• Shut down emotions or communication
   

• Every dog is trained as an individual.
• Every tool is introduced with care, consent, and purpose.
• Every handler is educated on how to use tools ethically and effectively.
• Every plan centers on the well-being of both the dog and the human.
   

We don’t chase trends. We don’t follow extremes.
We follow what works—for the dog in front of us, and the life they’re meant to live.