Frequently Asked Questions

About Eric & His Philosophy

Q: What is your training background?

A: I earned my certification in Dog Behavior & Counseling from the San Francisco SPCA’s Academy for Dog Trainers, followed by a specialized certification in Dog Aggression. I’ve also been retained by the San Francisco Department of Child Protective Services and appeared on national TV segments discussing dog rehabilitation and safety. But more than credentials, my work is driven by a deep passion for helping dogs and the people who love them.

Q: Are your methods similar to Cesar Millan’s?

A: Yes. While I received formal training at the SF SPCA, I met Cesar years ago before he became widely known. His understanding of pack dynamics had a major influence on my approach. Like Cesar, I rarely use treats or clickers. I focus on calm leadership, structure, and helping dogs find balance—not just obedience.

Training Methods & Philosophy

Q: What kind of training method do you use?

A: I use a positive, reward-based approach grounded in pack dynamics—not food bribes. Dogs naturally thrive in social structures when there’s clear leadership and consistency. I focus on communication, calm energy, and creating respect between dogs and humans. When necessary, I use specially trained helper dogs to help counter-condition negative behavior in a safe, structured environment.

Q: Do you use food or treats in your training?

A: No. I choose not to use food or treats as rewards. While this is a debated topic, I believe over-reliance on treats creates a “what’s in it for me?” attitude. Instead, I help dogs find value in structure, leadership, and a balanced environment. If you think a dog can’t perform perfectly without treats—just ask to meet mine.

Q: What are the risks of punishment-based training?

A: Punishment—like yelling, leash jerks, or shock—can backfire, especially with aggression. It often makes fear-based behaviors worse by deepening negative associations. Instead, we use counter-conditioning to create positive connections. When dogs associate a trigger with calm praise or play, their entire reaction begins to shift.

Dog Aggression & Behavior Challenges

Q: Can aggressive behavior be fixed with training?

A: In most cases, yes. Aggression is often rooted in fear or anxiety. Dogs learn that barking or lunging makes scary things go away. Through training, we change that pattern and build trust instead. Every dog is different, so let’s talk about what’s going on and come up with a plan that works for you.

Q: What if my dog is aggressive with other dogs?

A: Many of my clients come to me after trying other trainers who weren’t equipped to deal with serious dog-on-dog aggression. I use calm, specially trained dogs to counter-condition negative associations. I’ve worked with dogs that bite, lunge, and growl—and I’m not afraid to step in when others won’t.

Q: How does socialization help with aggression?

A: Proper socialization can prevent aggression, but if that window is missed, exposure must be handled carefully. Public spaces can overwhelm reactive dogs. I offer controlled environments with non-reactive helper dogs to gradually build new responses in a calm, safe way—while coaching you through it.

How We Work Together

Q: Do you come to my home, or do I bring my dog to you?

A: In most cases, I come to your home. That’s where your dog lives, and where most of the issues occur. Your home is the heart of your pack, and we need to make sure everyone in it is aligned. I also offer a Board & Train option for more intensive cases at my dog rehabilitation resort. Either way, we always involve the whole family.

Q: What does your training cost? Do you charge hourly?

A: I charge a flat fee that includes two in-depth sessions—one three-hour visit and one two-hour follow-up. You also get lifetime support via phone or email. I don’t believe in nickel-and-diming. If something changes in your dog’s behavior down the road, I’m just a phone call away.

Q: Do you guarantee results?

A: Every dog is different, so I don’t offer blanket guarantees. That said, it’s rare that I can’t either completely resolve or significantly improve behavioral problems. I’ll always be upfront with you about what’s realistic before we begin.

510-381-5894

Location: 4158 S Camino De Vida,

Gold Canyon, AZ 85118

Call Me Directly: 7:00 am - 7:00pm Mon-Sun