About the Trainer

My name is Kelsey. I’m a dog trainer based in Woodstock, Ontario.I’ve been working with dogs and their owners for over six years. I’m married, and we have a shepherd mix named Derek. My rottweiler Zannah, who played a formative role in my work, has since passed.

What I value most in my work is consistency and transparency. Showing up the same way, setting clear expectations, and being honest about what change actually requires.Zannah taught me that there are no quick fixes. Progress comes from repetition, clarity, and trust built over time. She slowed me down and showed me that patience and grace can feel slower in the moment, but rushing or forcing change only creates short-term improvement that doesn’t last. Working with her also made me more aware of my own body language and the way I communicate, how much dogs are responding to what we do, not just what we say.

When you work with me, we focus on small, clear steps and solid foundations. I want mistakes to happen - messy ones - because that’s where real learning takes place. I won’t judge you, or make you feel bad for where you’re starting. Dogs and people all learn differently, and my job is to help you understand the process, not rush it.

If you’re interested in how I approach training, you can read more on the Training Approach page or reach out by email or social media.

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Training Approach

My Training ApproachAt Crafting Canines, I focus on teaching you how to become an effective handler, someone your dog can clearly understand and trust. Training isn’t just about commands; it’s about communication.Step 1: Building Relationship Through PlayBefore we ever focus on obedience, we focus on engagement. Play creates trust, motivation, and a genuine working relationship. This is where your dog learns that you’re the most valuable part of their world, and we use play to introduce training concepts.Step 2: Teaching Leash PressureLeash pressure is a language. Your dog learns how to respond to gentle guidance on the leash instead of resisting it. This creates calm, confident movement and sets the foundation for all future obedience, on or off leash.Step 3: Introducing Marker WordsClear communication comes from consistent feedback. I teach you how to use marker words to communicate with your dog.These give your dog a clear understanding of what’s right, what needs adjustment, and when they’ve earned reward or freedom.Step 4: Layering ObedienceOnce your dog understands the language, we begin applying it in obedience. Depending on your goals, we introduce practical cues that fit your lifestyle with your dog.What I want you to know:If you feel resentful towards your dog, they are just as frustrated as you are.
Your dog isn't dumb. They just don't understand yet.