Frequently Asked Questions

💔 Too Many Dogs Are Punished for Being Dogs

They’re abandoned, misunderstood, or mistreated—just for acting like dogs. We can do better. Education is everywhere. Support is a click away.

At Lakota’s Legacy, I believe every dog deserves to be understood—not just managed. Whether you’re starting fresh with a new puppy or feeling overwhelmed by fear, reactivity, trauma, or aggression, our humane, science-based methods are designed to help. This page answers your most common questions about what to expect from my positive reinforcement approach, how we create lasting change, and why clients in Clarksville, Fort Campbell, Middle Tennessee and beyond trust me to guide their journey—virtually or in person.

  • What kind of training methods do you use? I use only positive rewards-based methods in my dog training.

  • What is your background? You can find out more about me here: Reviews & Certs . Certifications include Trauma Informed Pet Professional with Brain and Behavior Academy, and Certified Dog Behavior Consultant with the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants

  • Will you work with my vet? Yes. From time to time we will involve your veterinarian in a particular situation.

  • Will this fix my dog? No. Your dog isn’t broken. My goal is to improve your dog’s Quality of Life with a customized plan that works on a cognitive and emotional level.

  • Will you ever use force, punishment, a pinch or shock e-collar? NO!

  • Can you help me with my aggressive dog? YES!

  • Can you help me with my crazy reactive dog? YES!

  • Can you help me understand my dog better? YES! Educating humans is a HUGE part of what I do.

  • Do you use dominance training? NO. That is an old debunked theory that won’t go away.

  • How long will it take for my dog to get better? That depends on your commitment to the process, your dog’s learning (some are quicker than others and that is okay), and ultimately up to the dog. We look at it all in a holistic way and work together as a team to help your dog.

  • Can you help me virtually online? Yes. I am set up to be able to help anyone with an internet connection. For certain dogs it is better that I am not in their presence as my goal is to reduce the amount of stress on the dog.

  • How will this help my dog if we never put my dog in the middle of the struggle? Because the dog needs to change how they feel about the situation/trigger, or learn how to make different choices through their behavior BEFORE we start working in the situation. I want your dog to be as equipped as possible, setting up both of you for success.

  • Can you guarantee results? No, there are no guarantees on your dog’s behavior any more than I can guarantee your behavior, or mine for that matter. Dog’s are animals with their own thoughts, feelings and behavior. The only way to guarantee results is through pain and punishment (including use of shock e-collars, which do fail. Use of them also causes physiological and psychological damage that you can not “see”).

  • Do you train puppies? Yes. Puppies need a strong foundation on which to grow up on. We are not as focused on “obedience” but more of life skills to help the pup live a long happy life with their human family, avoiding tough behavior struggles as adults. We focus on building the dog’s confidence, optimism, self-control, self-management, for instance. These skills apply to just about anything else we want to do with our dogs from walking nicely on a leash to chilling out in the home and coming back when called. Our puppy training focuses on the relationship between you and your dog, making it one that is trusting, respectful, safe and fun.

  • How old should my puppy be to start puppy training? Anywhere from 8 weeks and up is optimum.

  • Do you offer payment plans? On certain services I do. Just get in touch and we can discuss.

  • What if I have a question about my dog’s training after our session? Drop me an email and I am happy to get back with you on it. I am here to help you succeed.

  • I can’t get my dog to walk nice on a leash. Can you help me with that? Yes. I have a really cool Reactive to Rockin 10 week course you can check out in my services, or we can just roll with some awesome and fun life skills sessions. Many clients tend to drift when we start training as they learn to recognize trouble spots with their dogs that they want to work on.

  • What’s the difference between “Behavior Modification” and “Training”? Behavior Modification goes much deeper than the operant sit, down, and stay type of training. We are working on the dog’s behavior through their emotions and thoughts. We are building up the dog to empower them and teach them how to make better choices on their own without us “commanding” them to. My Life Skills training is similar in that aspect as we are teaching your dog how to make better choices for themselves and not bossing them or constantly telling them what to do. Training is a large umbrella that covers many different types: Agility, fly ball, obedience, rally, Schutzhund, Dock Diving, Search & Rescue, Task Force, Drug Detection, Therapy, Service Dog, Barn Hunt, Scent, for instance. I am a Concept Trainer.

  • What is a concept trainer? In Concept Training, we are reshaping the dog’s brain by helping them create new neural pathways which helps them to learn the skills they need to live in the human’s world. This is a deep, empowering, kind and fun way that the dog’s enjoy and understand. It becomes a new way to communicate with your dog.

  • What can I expect the first session? It depends on which training or consult you are enrolling in. Generally, there will be discussion, Q&A, and homework.

  • How do I get started? Shoot me an email via the contact form on the Contact tab and I will be in touch with you.

🐾 Let’s Talk About Dog Training: What Really Matters

Dog training isn’t just about getting your pup to sit or stay—it’s about building a relationship rooted in trust, understanding, and clear communication. And while there’s no shortage of advice out there, not all of it is created equal.

📚 An Unregulated Industry

A bestselling book or a flashy social media profile doesn’t guarantee someone truly understands canine behavior. And while a background in law enforcement or the military might bring discipline and structure, it doesn’t always translate to empathy or insight into how dogs think and feel. Look for trainers with recognized certifications and positive reviews from other dog owners. Organizations like the International Association of Behavior Consultants, and the Association of Professional Dog Trainers are a great place to start.

🗣️ Language Matters

Words like “command” and “obedience” come from an older, dominance-based approach to training. Today, we know that dogs thrive when we focus on cooperation, not control. Building a bond through positive reinforcement leads to happier dogs—and happier humans. Avoid trainers who use harsh, outdated methods like alpha-dominance or physical punishment. Positive reinforcement training is more humane and effective.

⚡ The Truth About Shock Collars

Shock collars are often marketed as “safe when used correctly,” but misuse is common—and the risks are real. Research shows they can increase fear, anxiety, and aggression. If there are gentler, science-backed ways to help your dog learn, why not choose those instead? American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (ASVAB) Position Statement on Humane Dog Training: https://avsab.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/AVSAB-Humane-Dog-Training-Position-Statement-2021.pdf

📺 Quick Fixes Aren’t Always Kind

TV gadgets and viral hacks might promise instant results, but they often mask deeper issues. A collar that stops barking or a leash that halts pulling might seem helpful, but they can create long-term problems. Even something as simple as chasing a laser pointer can lead to compulsive behaviors.

🐶 Every Dog Is Different

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Dogs are individuals with their own personalities, histories, and needs. What works for one pup might not work for another—and that’s okay. The best trainers know how to adapt and personalize their approach.

🎓 Credentials Matter

In the U.S., the title “behaviorist” isn’t just a label—it requires a college degree and specialized training. Only professionals certified by the Animal Behavior Society (ABS) can officially use the title “animal behaviorist.” There are two levels:

  • Associate Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (ACAAB) hold a Master’s in a biological or behavioral science and have at least two years of hands-on experience.

  • Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists (CAAB) have a Ph.D. in a related field plus five years of professional experience.

These credentials reflect rigorous education and real-world expertise—not just time spent around animals.

A certified dog behavior professional is someone who’s been formally trained and tested in the science of canine behavior and learning. They specialize in helping dogs with behavior challenges—like fear, aggression, anxiety, or reactivity—using humane, evidence-based methods.

Here’s what sets them apart:

🎓 Education & Certification

They’ve completed coursework and hands-on experience in behavior science, and earned credentials from respected organizations like:

  • IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) – certifies professionals with deep experience and knowledge in behavior modification

  • CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) – offers certifications like CBCC-KA for behavior consultants

🧠 What They Do

  • Assess the root cause of behavior issues

  • Create customized behavior plans

  • Use techniques like desensitization, counterconditioning, and positive reinforcement

  • Support both dog and human through the process

⚠️ Why Certification Matters

The field isn’t regulated—anyone can call themselves a “behaviorist.” Certified professionals have proven expertise, follow ethical standards, and stay current through continuing education.

If you're dealing with more than basic training issues, a certified behavior consultant can make a huge difference in your dog’s well-being—and your peace of mind. Want help finding one near Clarksville? I can pull up options for you.True credentials reflect education, experience, and a commitment to ethical, effective methods. Simply owning dogs or working in a kennel doesn’t make someone a certified professional. Ask where your trainer studied. Don’t be afraid to dig deeper.

❤️ Choose Compassion and Science

Your dog deserves more than shortcuts and outdated methods. Look for someone who understands the science of behavior, leads with empathy, and treats you like a teammate in your dog’s journey. Because when training is rooted in kindness and collaboration, everyone wins.