Philosophy

Dogs are masters at reading the world around them. They notice the smallest physical cues, learn our routines with remarkable precision, and use their incredible senses to navigate their environment. They have internal clocks, detect subtle changes in light and household sounds, and rely on their powerful sense of smell to understand what's happening around them. They watch us constantly—connecting the sight of us grabbing keys or putting on workout clothes to what comes next.

This fascination with how dogs perceive and learn drives everything I do. I don't just train behaviors; I build communication systems that work with your dog's natural instincts and abilities. My approach is balanced and holistic, using the full spectrum of learning theory—positive reinforcement, clear communication, and appropriate consequences—while always prioritizing your dog's well-being and emotional state.

I'm a self-proclaimed behavior nerd who studies canine body language, cognition, and neuroscience relentlessly. Understanding that dogs have far more scent receptors than humans, can hear frequencies we can't, and see better in low light helps me create training plans that resonate with how they actually experience the world.

Meet Kris

My world has always been filled with animals. Growing up in New Jersey while frequently visiting the lush, animal-rich islands of what is now the British Virgin Islands—where my parents were raised—I was immersed in the natural world from an early age. Both of my parents grew up around livestock, and those island trips gave me hands-on experience with pigs, hens, goats, and every creature in between.

But dogs quickly became my favorite. Their personalities, loyalty, and intelligence fascinated me even as a child. Watching how keenly they observed everything around them—how a dog could distinguish between a "work day" routine and a "day off" adventure—sparked an obsession with understanding and communicating with them that has never faded.

After years of informal animal care and five years of professional dog training experience, I've developed an approach grounded in science, enriched by experience, and dedicated to creating confident, well-mannered companions who can go anywhere with you.

I continue to learn and grow because dogs keep teaching me. Whether I'm working with a high-energy herding breed or a laid-back mixed-breed rescue, I'm constantly reminded of how perceptive, adaptable, and extraordinary our canine companions truly are.

My mission is simple: to help you unlock your dog's potential and deepen the bond you share. I want to create what so many of us dream of—a well-mannered companion who can relax when asked, respond reliably to cues, and revel in play when it's time for fun.

Expertise

  • 5 years of professional dog training experience

  • Specialized study in canine body language, cognition, and neuroscience

  • Balanced, holistic training methodology using positive reinforcement and learning theory

  • Marker training systems for clear communication and rapid learning

  • Public Access Test (PAT) framework integration for real-world reliability

  • Experience across diverse breeds, temperaments, and household environments

  • Commitment to humane, science-based training methods

What Makes Us Different

  •  I use a comprehensive marker system—consistent words, clicks, and gestures that tell your dog exactly what they're doing right. Clear markers build confidence and accelerate learning, creating dogs who understand what you want rather than just guessing.

  •  I incorporate elements from the Public Access Test (PAT) used by service dog organizations. While not legally required, the PAT provides a structured framework to ensure your dog isn't just obedient at home—they're calm, responsive, and relaxed in the real world. The PAT standards also reinforce my commitment to humane methods by forbidding punitive tools like prong or electronic collars.

  • Every dog and every family is unique. Whether you're hiking enthusiasts or apartment dwellers, I design training programs that reflect your actual daily life. Using behavioral assessments, marker training, and PAT-inspired guidelines, I create plans specific to your dog's temperament, your household, and your goals.