About Us

                                                                    Polly’s Bio

A masters degree in education has taught me I can use my expertise in lesson planning to design well-structured training programs tailored to individual dogs. Having over 30 years of teaching has given me experience in the human component of dog training.

I have a degree in Psychology which has given me a mastery of Learning Theory including: 

Operant & Classical Conditioning: I understand principles like positive/negative reinforcement, extinction bursts, and desensitization. These are the exact tools used to build good habits and eliminate unwanted behaviors.

Behavioral Analysis: I know how to analyze the ABCs of behavior: Antecedent (the trigger), Behavior (the action), and Consequence (the reward or punishment). 

Biological Responses: I recognize that behaviors like barking or lunging are often biological stress responses (fear or anxiety) rather than simple defiance.

Customized Training: Understanding intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation helps me figure out exactly what drives a specific dog, whether it's treats, play, or praise. 

The "People" Factor: Dog training is largely about training you. Psychology gives me the communication and empathy skills needed to motivate dog owners, handle their frustrations, and help them change their own habits.

Observation Skills: I am fluent in reading body language—not just the dog's subtle signs of stress, but the client's emotional state as well.

My work experience includes over 500 hours of dog training. Volunteering in a dog shelter, a trainer at the Lucky Dog Training Center as well as a week long class in B.A.T.. I was certified in BAT (Behavior Adjustment Training) in 2014.  BAT is a comprehensive and detailed approach to working with “fear, frustration, and aggression in dogs”. BAT effectively teaches social skills and helps dogs gain confidence. It nurtures security and trust between the dog and their human family. BAT arranges safe scenarios where animals can socialize naturally and interact with dogs and people.

The training methods I use focus on using positive reinforcement to build strong bonds between dogs and their owners. I reward desired behaviors with praise, toys, treats and other positive reinforcements, and focus on, and reinforce the desired behaviors instead of the unwanted behaviors. Benjamin Hoff one said, “A lot of people talk to animals. Not very many listen though, that's the problem." I teach owners how to listen to their dog.

Dogs are wonderful creatures, At 5D I am lucky to combine my love for dogs with helping others to increase their bond with their dogs.