Hi, I'm Brandy.

Thank you for learning what makes Fluency Dog Training different!

Let's Skip the Origin Story

You've probably read a dozen trainer bios that start with a difficult dog and a life-changing moment. That just wasn't my story. I didn't become a trainer out of desperation. I became one because I had an amazing dog. I genuinely loved understanding about dogs and helping people build a better relationship with their dog. And, you probably aren't really here for a biography anyways. You're here because something with your dog feel hard right now, and you want real help, from someone who knows what they are doing. That's what I'd love to give you.

So here's what matters:

I've been certified as a dog trainer for 15+ years. I opened Fluency Dog Training not as a side hustle. Not as a passion project turned business. This is my career, and I've worked with hundreds of dogs—from 2-pound Chihuahuas to 120-pound working breeds, puppies to seniors, purebreds to rescues.

FAQ:

"How is this different from other trainers?"
Most trainers pick one method and use it for every dog. I use what works for your dog, even if that means pulling from five different training philosophies.

"What if my dog is 'untrainable'?"
There's no such thing. Some dogs are harder than others. Some need more time. But all dogs can learn basic manners—they just need the right approach.

"Do you use treats/prongs/e-collars?"
Yes. All of the above, depending on the dog and the goal. I'm not ideologically opposed to any tool—I care about what gets results without causing harm.

"What if I've already tried training and it didn't work?"
That's literally my specialty. Let's figure out why it didn't work and try something different.

Let's Get Training!

Meet Whiskey

Training Assistant & Professional Good Boy

Whiskey was born in 2022, and despite looking like a Belgian Malinois, he's actually a Chihuahua/Pit mix (yes, really). You'll see him at public training events, assisting with reactive dog training, and hanging out at our free Fluency Dog Training community sessions. He's proof that training works on ALL dogs—even the weird mixes.

I'm certified (twice). Once in 2010, again in 2024 because I believe in staying current. Dog training science evolves, and I refuse to get stuck using methods from a decade ago just because "that's how I've always done it."

I'm the trainer people call when the first trainer didn't work out. Not because I'm magic, but because I don't force every dog into the same training method. What works for a nervous rescue doesn't work for a confident working breed. What works for your goals might be different than what worked for my last client. I meet dogs (and owners) where they are.

I don't do "alpha" nonsense or firm-handed training. If that's what you're looking for, I'm not your trainer. But if you want someone who genuinely cares about getting results without breaking your dog's spirit (or yours) we'll get along.

Here's What I Actually Do

I train family dogs for real life. Not competition obedience. Not Instagram-perfect tricks. Just functional, reliable training that makes living with your dog easier and more enjoyable.

My specialty? Building confidence in anxious, fearful, or shut-down dogs. I also help reactive dogs learn to exist in the world without losing their minds. My goal isn't to make your dog perfect for me, my goal is to make your dog ideal for you. It's to help you create the relationship you actually want with your dog. For some clients, that's a calm companion who doesn't jump on guests. For others, it's an off-leash hiking partner. I'm here to help you get there, whatever "there" looks like for you.

Why My Clients Stick Around

Most of my clients stay in touch for years after training ends. Not because they need me (though some come back for boarding), but because we built something beyond a transactional trainer-client relationship. When you work with me, you're trusting me with a member of your family. I take that seriously. I know it can feel vulnerable to admit your dog isn't perfect or that you're struggling. I get it. And I'm not here to judge, I'm here to help.

Credentials (Since You're Probably Wondering)

Here's the honest truth: credentials matter, but they don't tell the whole story. Plenty of certified trainers suck, and plenty of great trainers aren't certified. But since you're evaluating me, here's what I've invested in:

Formal Certifications:

Certified Dog Behavior Trainer & Instructor (2010)
NePoPo® Silver & Gold School Graduate (2024)
Martin System Electric Collar Certified (2024)
Triple Helix Canine Neurobiology Certification, Dr. Uhde (2025)
AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
International Association of Canine Professionals Member

Continuing Education (because good trainers never stop learning):

Michael Ellis — Fundamentals of Dog Training & Behavior
Denise Fenzi — The High Drive Dog, Training Between The Ears
Victoria Stilwell — Fundamentals
Pat Stuart — Motivate, Communicate, Coach (live)
Malena DeMartini-Price — Separation Anxiety in Dogs
Patricia McConnell, Ph.D. — Anxiety in Dogs
Simon Prins — Odor Imprinting (live)
Marty Becker — From Fearful to Fear Free
Duke University — Dog Emotion and Cognition
Karen Shaw Becker & Rodney Habib — The Forever Dog
Brenda Aloff — Canine Body Language
Forrest Micke — Heeler Toolbox
Fenzi Dog Sport Academy — Multiple workshops
Urban Herding 4-Week Series
Barky Lungy Dog Conference (2025)

Academic Background:

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology (Movement Studies), Washington State University, Minor in Psychology (2006)
Associate of Occupational Science (2012)

The Bottom Line

I'm good at what I do. I've invested thousands of hours and dollars into getting better at it. And I care about helping you and your dog succeed.

But the real question is: Are we the right fit for each other? If you're looking for a trainer who will work with you (not at you), who adapts to your dog instead of forcing your dog to adapt to one rigid method, and who actually gives a damn about your success—let's talk.

If you want someone who's going to tell you your dog is "dominant" or needs to spend hours on a place cot, you probably want to find someone else.