HELLO THERE!
THANKS FOR STOPPING BY
Share your city home and lifestyle with a herding or working breed? So do we! And we understand the unique challenges presented to dogs who were bred to move or guard livestock or hunt and find themselves living in an urban environment.
Maybe your dog came from a quiet rural area or shelter and isn't quite sure about this loud city living. Our CTO (Chief Treat Officer) Blaze says "Same."
Have a dog who isn't a dream out on walks? So do we! We've had three of them to be perfectly honest. We can empathize with you and share our experience.
Have an adorable puppy and want to build a solid foundation for all the fun to come later? We've been there for sure! And we've got some modern, fresh takes on learning and enrichment we know you'll enjoy.
ABOUT ME
My name is Cynthia (she/they) and I'm Radical Rover's founder and trainer. I'm happy you're taking this first step in looking for a positive reinforcement dog trainer so let me tell you a little bit about myself.
I’ve been a herding dog magnet my entire life and a clicker training enthusiast for over two decades. In early 2022 I decided to retire from my librarian position and turn my passion for dog training into a career. I enrolled in the Karen Pryor Academy (KPA), a professional animal training program dedicated to the tenants of positive reinforcement, and graduated with distinction as a KPA CTP (Certified Training Partner). In 2023 I completed the Puppy Start Right for Instructors course offered by KPA. I've taken courses on calming reactive dogs, cooperative care, shy dogs, and separation anxiety. In the fall of 2023, I entered into a mentorship program with Pet Harmony to bring you the joys of enrichment and another program to learn more about canine impulsivity and fear.
I've shared my adult life with one people-reactive dog, two dog-reactive dogs, one oversized puppy who never stopped barking, and one fearful, noise-sensitive, resource-guarding cattle dog (that's Blaze whom you'll see in photos and videos). In March 2023 we added an 8-week-old herding mix to the family. I've been where many of you are right now so can empathize. I've volunteered at the Anti-Cruelty Society where I interacted with a wide variety of dogs, and served as a trainer for new volunteers and for their In-Kennel Clicker Program. I'm dedicated to continuing my education by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences.
ABOUT RADICAL ROVER
We designed our services to offer you fresh strategies to engage with your dog. Our methods rest on a solid foundation built by pioneers in animal training and behavior, positive reinforcement, and enrichment. We passionately interact with, support, and learn from like-minded colleagues on a daily basis. We promote equity, social justice, and agency. We give you and your dog the space you need to be the best versions of yourselves! One of our goals is to make our methods easily accessible to those who need them.
Our solutions may even appear radically different than what you might expect. We'll focus on the good things; the things you want your dog to do; while simultaneously making sure all your dog's needs are met. We do not use physical or verbal corrections. We do not use and will not recommend prong, choke or electronic/shock collars. We do not put pressure or yank on a leash. Those methods are outdated and thankfully, there are more modern ways to train animals. We'll bring relief while helping you figure things out. You and your dog are our priority.
We routinely ask clients what their goals are so let us tell you ours: to set you up for success by introducing you to the joys of positive reinforcement dog training and enrichment. THE FUTURE OF DOG TRAINING IS NOW!
WHY CHOOSE US?
Because dog training is an unregulated industry, anyone can promise you anything. "Years of experience" are great, yet that doesn't imply a commitment to ethical training methods. Even better is learning with an organization that insists members adhere to safe, force-free, and humane practices. Check out the philosophies of your trainer's certifying body. Our KPA CTP certification and continuing education keep us up to date on the latest research and positive training methods. While we don't offer traditional obedience and manners group classes, you're sure to pick up or hone some of those skills along the way. Instead, we offer you a radical way to engage with the dog sitting (or standing or chewing or barking) right in front of you.
A dog who has all of their needs met is a pleasure to live and walk with, and also to train. And because we offer private or small class learning opportunities you and your dog have our undivided attention! Depending on the program selected, sessions can be in your home, in a public area, or virtual if you prefer. The whole family can be on board. Our flexible and convenient scheduling is perfect for busy professionals and families.
Before you hire a dog trainer you should ask yourself one simple question: will this program and methods make my dog happy? With us, the answer is yes, so we hope you’re ready to think about dog training and behavior in a radically different way. Most of all we want you and your dog to succeed and be happy...together!
