In this series, we’ll be chatting with every member of the KeenDog team. We’ll dive into their origin stories, their passions, and the experiences that have shaped them into the trainers you know and love. And maybe we’ll discover a few quirks, too!

Next up, KeenDog trainer, Kat…

Tell us about your first dog!

Sable was one of our first dogs growing up. She was a large mutt who found her way to us in her adult years. From day one, she was a naturally good dog. She loved going for rides in the car and could be trusted to hang out in the unfenced backyard. Every night after dinner, we put our plates down on the kitchen floor for Sable to polish off and lick clean. Whenever I think of Sable though, I remember the dog who would craw under my blanket to snuggle at night (just as my dog Anne does now).

What inspired you to become a dog trainer?

Initially, like most of us, my problem child, young rescue that wasn't exactly a joy to walk or take out on adventures. I enjoyed training her so much, I started volunteering at a training facility and eventually worked my way up to a trainer position. Over the course of years working in other areas of the dog world (kennels and daycares, shelters, a vet, etc.), I witnessed many owners struggling with their dogs (many who avoided even walking them at all), and dogs in shelters/rescues who were struggling to get adopted. So, I circled back to dog training and sharpened my skills and knowledge, with the desire to help struggling dogs and owners.

What is your favorite thing (behavior, sport, etc.) to train and why?

Play! Some dogs are naturally good players, some need time and guidance to learn how fun games are with us (and not just other dogs). Like most things in dog training, it can take time and patience, but the rewards are worth the effort! It is incredibly rewarding to watch dogs and their humans play productively together, each having a blast and learning, and strengthening their relationship along the way!

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to new dog owners?

Don't rush the process! Obedience behaviors will come easily if you first take time to build a relationship and show your dog that all fun things come from or through you! Take time to understand what truly motivates your dog as you build your relationship.

What is one thing you wish dog owners knew or understood?

The behaviors you reward (reinforce) are the ones that will continue. If you pet a jumping dog, they will continue to jump! The behaviors you ignore (consistently) will slowly fade away. If you always ignore the jumping dog, they will eventually try a different behavior!

If you could teach your dog one human skill, what would it be?

To drive! I can't imagine how productive I would be if I had a free chauffeur!

If you were a dog, what breed would you be and why?

Husky. I love my small pack, though I’m super independent, maybe to a fault. I am my best self when I'm active, working, and outside. I also have moments where I can be a bit stubborn.

If you could only have one dog breed for the rest of your life, what breed would you choose and why?

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. I've never met one I didn't love! They are some of the best snugglers, but also have good drive and are fun to train. Plus, they are on the smaller side, which means I can feasibly have more of them, as opposed to a larger breed. #dogtrainermath

If you could train any famous dog from movies or TV, who would it be and why?

Dodger from Oliver & Company (though I love him and think he's perfect, just the way he is!). I think he'd be a fun dog to work with overall training-wise. Also, with some training and relationship building, he seems like he would have potential to be an exceptional, fiercely loyal companion. I imagine he would have a very long list of fun, flashy tricks too!

Anything else you want the people to know about you? Your dogs? Your training style?

I believe training shouldn't be a fight or like pulling teeth; training should resemble a cooperative game you're playing with your dog! It won't always be easy and smooth sailing, but overall, it should be enjoyable for everyone. Practicing obedience may seem redundant at times, but I always want to focus on skills that are practical for your lifestyle and the adventures you want to go on with your dog!

Tell us about your teammates! Anything you want to share?

I could write a short novel covering the things I love about the KD team, their quirks I adore, and the many times they've made me cackle. What I love most about the team is we are all a little quirky and appreciate each other, for all our quirks. We are all so different, but mesh well together. We almost have a sixth sense when someone needs a little extra help or uplifting. They are also some of my favorite people to spend my free time with, whether it's adventuring with our personal dogs, spending time on the lake, or sharing good food!