Hello
My name is Ingrid, and I am the owner and founder of Grey Dog Alliance. I have been working with dogs for over 30 years. That story is a bit long, so that can live on the About Me page. What you'll read below here is about why I was inspired to launch this company and bring my years of knowledge, experience, and expertise to dog owners in a straightforward yet supportive way. You'll also find my methods for Human Coaching & Dog Training.
Why Grey Dog Alliance?
INFORMATION OVERLOAD
Once upon a time dog trainers were scarce as was their information. The internet, especially social media has led to information overload. Clients I meet are feeling overwhelmed, ashamed, confused, and, most of all, frustrated. The internet can present some hard and fast rules about dogs, and it's simply not that easy. Dog training is not black and white. Most decent dog trainers say, "It depends on the dog." That has been my answer to a majority of questions posed to me by clients and mentees. What works for one dog may not work for another. Even if the goal and methods are the same, the process may differ. Finding your unique path to success involves looking not just at your dog but also at you and your situation. Plus, dogs also work and learn in a grey area. We tend to offer our dogs only two options; they can either be right or wrong. But they, too, have a learning process that requires patience, clear communication, and other options besides black and white.
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ALIGNMENT​ BETWEEN DOG & HUMAN
It's unpleasant to hear or admit, but many people feel a misalignment between themselves and their dogs. You may have a lovely relationship, but are your goals aligned? Training is so much more than obedience and teaching a dog "commands." It involves relationship building, improving communications, and living fuller lives together as a TEAM. When you have issues with your dog's behavior, consider what you prioritize: Your wants, your needs, your dog's wants, or your dog's needs. Too often, these things can conflict with each other, but I would like to help bridge this gap. Understanding and aligning your goals with your dog's can lead to a more harmonious relationship, and I'm here to support you in this journey.
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ALLIANCE WITH COMMUNITY
Lastly, from the inside, the pet care industry is separate from one another: groomers, vets, dog walkers, dog sitters, etc. For the pet owner, however, we are all "pet care professionals," and the unnecessary competition and shame that is out there helps no one and certainly not the dogs. Not only will I not take part in that, I am part of a larger community of like-minded businesses so we can better serve the dogs and their humans. In fact if find I am not the best fit to help you train your dog, or you need a service GDA does not offer, I can recommend someone for you.
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First and foremost, I want to help our dogs have stress-free, well-rounded lives.
Training Methods
Relationship-based training
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helping improve the communication skills between humans and their dogs
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create a better understanding of the "why" behind dogs' behaviors
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education in dog psychology and science behind dog training
Human Coaching
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teach form and handling
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management tools for current concerns while building long-term solutions
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help create and maintain a realistic routine based on your lifestyle, allowing you to be more consistent with your training
Dog Training
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Find their motivation and learning styles
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Reduce their options to repeat unwanted behaviors
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Create winnable moments for them / pattern desired behaviors
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Slowly push them beyond threshold to strengthen & stretch skills
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