Meet Your Clarksville TN Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
Specializing in Force-Free Canine Aggression, Reactivity, and Anxiety Resolution.
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) — Accredited by the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC).
Family Dog Mediator (FDM) — Specialized training in the LEGS framework (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self) to evaluate the whole dog.
Veterinarian Recommended — Trusted and referred by local veterinary clinics across Montgomery County for severe behavioral cases.
The Difference Between a Behaviorist, Consultant, and Trainer
Because the pet training industry remains entirely unregulated, anyone can buy a leash, use aversive shock collars, and call themselves a "behaviorist" or a "trainer."
Professionally and ethically, the title "Behaviorist" is a designation strictly on reserve for specialists holding an advanced postgraduate academic degree in animal behavior or rigorous board-certified credentials through an esteemed governing organization like the IAABC.
While a standard dog trainer focuses on basic obedience commands (sit, stay, heel), a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) is uniquely qualified to assess, modify, and safely remediate complex psychological profiles including severe resource guarding, leash lunging, and canine aggression. At Lakota's Legacy, we provide the highest tier of credentialed, science-based behavior modification—meaning we treat the emotional root cause of your dog's panic rather than applying physical corrections when they react.
My Philosophy: We live in a fluid world with another species of animal. Families and dogs have their own needs. My job is to set both human and dog up for success!
Dogs aren’t “bad” or “broken.” Most behavior issues come from a mismatch between what the dog needs and the life we ask them to live. My goal is to help you understand your dog better, build a stronger bond, and create real, lasting change together.
No dominance. No punishment. No one-size-fits-all commands. Just humane, evidence-based strategies that work.
My Credentials
I am proud to hold the following certifications and memberships:
Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) — International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
Certified L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediator (FDM)— with a focus on Total Welfare
Trauma Informed Pet Professional — Brain & Behavior Academy
Professional Concept Trainer — trained with Dr. Tom Mitchell, BVSc, BSc, MRCVS
Aggressive Dog Master Course led by Michael Shikashio
Pledged member of the Shock-Free Coalition
Along with hundreds of hours in continued education
The IAABC Certified designation represents the pinnacle of achievement for animal behavior consultants. This credential indicates multiple years of experience and the ability to tackle challenging, complex cases. A minimum of four years experience with 500 hours in animal behavior consulting, 400 hours of coursework, seminars and mentorship and a working knowledge of learning theory, counterconditioning, desensitization, husbandry, assessment skills and application of species-specific knowledge.
The IAABC offers certified credentials for Dog (CDBC) Cat (CCBC), Equine (CEBC), Parrot (CPBC), Shelter-Dog (CSB-D) and Shelter-Cat (CSB-C), with over 650 animal behavior consultants across the globe.
Why Clients Choose Lakota’s Legacy
Science-based yet deeply compassionate methods
Personalized plans using the LEGS Total Welfare approach
In-person support in Clarksville, TN (including Fort Campbell) and convenient online sessions nationwide
Focus on root causes instead of quick fixes
A genuine partnership — I’m here to support both you and your dog
One on one personal attention & guidance, setting you both up for success
Ready to Work Together?
If you’re tired of struggling and ready for real understanding and lasting change, I’d love to help.
Lakota lit the way.
Now I help dogs and their people heal and grow—through heart, science, and a purpose born from love.
She is with me in every house I go to and every dog I meet. If you are struggling to connect with your dog, I offer personalized, science-based training (in-person or virtual) to help with behavior, communication, and bonding. Certified, compassionate, and here to guide your journey.
Let’s get you both back on track.
Ready to make real changes with your dog?
Let’s take that first step together.
Click below to schedule your consultation—whether it’s in person or virtual, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Your journey to calm, connection, and confidence starts now. 🐾
“When we know better, we do better!”- Maya Angelou
She is the fire that burns in my heart and the reason I am here today. I know she is watching from above. I see her every time I look into a troubled dog’s eyes. I will always advocate for the dog, no matter what!
Maybe you have been told similar things. Maybe you are sitting there feeling defeated, lost, overwhelmed, stressed out and hopeless. Maybe everyone has been focusing on the wrong thing.
Maybe it’s time to try something different. I certainly will do my best to help you - for Lakota’s Legacy, and for your dog.