Multi-certified force free training in Victoria, BC.

Dog training that’s made to be fun, accessible, and easy to follow.

Meet your trainer!

Hey! I’m Cailin.

I’m the owner of PuptodateDogs, and I’m passionate about using positive reinforcement and force free techniques to help you connect with your dog and build your bond by doing so.

I’m certified through the International Association of Animal Behavioural Consultants (IAABC), and also a Fear Free Certified Professional through Fear Free Pets. As a force free trainer, I believe in empowering our dogs to make the right choices and using compassion to help your dog learn effectively while having fun.

I’ve also acquired my separation anxiety certification through Julie Naismith’s “Separation Anxiety Pro” or “SA Pro” program and am a certified SA Behaviour Consultant. Read more about separation anxiety training by Julie Naismith here.

About me

Before starting out as a trainer, I worked (and still work) as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) in British Columbia. With my training as an RMT, I have learned and believe in a holistic, compassionate approach to dogs and humans.

I started getting into canine behaviour and training because of my dog Basil, the Aussie x Border Collie you’ve seen across this website. When he started exhibiting reactive behaviours, I delved into everything I could. Books, papers, courses, anything I could get my hands on. I realized there was so much misinformation out there, with so many people still promoting outdated methods. I wondered how many people fell into the wrong hands. With so much misinformation out there, I felt lost on what to do with Basil. I decided to sign up for training with a force free trainer.

When I had my first session, I felt empowered by the trainer to help Basil. Basil and I made huge strides in his reactivity. After learning all this information, and coming so far with his anxiety, I knew there was so many people out there who were struggling like I was. I wanted to be able to help others who were going through the same thing, or help them prevent it.

As a force free trainer, I am committed to:

  • Teaching you how to train your dog and connect with them better (so you won’t need my help forever!)
  • Setting you and your dog up for success
  • Treating you and your dog with compassion & respect
  • Being up-to-date (hence the name!) with literature, humane methods, and evidence based techniques to help you create lasting behaviours

I’m so happy you’re here.

When I’m not working with furry friends and their humans, you can find me taking care of my plants and garden, hanging out with my dogs, or exploring the beautiful island that I’m so lucky to live on. 

I’m so glad you’re here and I can help you on this force free, compassionate journey with your dog. If you have any questions, please reach out to me through email, or feel free to book a 15-min information call (they’re free!). 

Book a free information call.

Training Philosophy & Methods

I follow the most up to date training methods. Force free, positive reinforcement training is backed by science. It’s ethical, humane, and effective. Food, toys, and relationship building is what you’ll get from me. You’ll never see any aversive methods in your training plan, and that’s a promise I can make. If you’ve used aversive methods in the past, no problem! This is a judgement free zone and I’m happy to get you started on your force-free journey.