Proper Paws Canine Coaching

05/25/2026

From real-world Search & Rescue working dogs to everyday pet dog problems — Proper Paws Canine Coaching combines operational K9 experience with practical family dog training.

Whether you’re struggling with reactivity, leash pulling, recall, or just building better engagement with your dog, we’ll give you the tools to create a calm, confident, reliable companion.

- Puppy foundations
- Behaviour issues
- Reactivity
- Recall & engagement
- Working & sport dog skills

Based in Nova Scotia | In-home training available

As a firefighter and Canine Team Lead for the East Coast’s only urban and wilderness search and rescue team, I’ve trained and deployed in demanding, real-world environments where performance and reliability truly matter.

05/06/2026

04/20/2026

Your dog isn’t the problem—lack of clarity is.
In-home coaching that builds trust, structure, and results that actually last.

Get in touch via message or phone to start your training journey.

1400 Forest Hill Rd, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R1, Canada

04/06/2026

Winner announcement!

04/06/2026

WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT!

Check out the video to see who won — we’ll be reaching out to the winner directly!

03/27/2026

🐾 WIN A FREE DOG TRAINING CONSULT 🐾

Want help with your dog’s behaviour, obedience, or reactivity?

📸 Post a fun picture of your dog in the comments
👍 Follow our page

That’s it — you’re entered to win a FREE initial consult with Proper Paws Canine Coaching

Whether you’ve got a wild puppy, reactive dog, or anywhere in between, we can help you build a calm, reliable companion.

Winner announced April 3rd!

Let’s see those dogs 👇

I'll go first!

03/17/2026

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review!

'I have been a professional dog handler for 16 years. I have had the privilege to train under Russ. His positive reinforcement based training methods are leading edge. He will ensure you meet your goals with your dog while strengthening the bond via clear, fair communication.'

03/10/2026

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

'It was a pleasure having Russ in our home. He took the time to thoughtfully address my concerns, breaking everything down with clear, logical explanations that really eased my fears as a first-time dog owner.
Russ provided practical, realistic strategies to help us manage busy mornings with both a young child and a puppy. We walked away feeling confident in the tools and techniques he shared, and reassured that we’re on the right path to raising a happy, well-adjusted dog who fits seamlessly into our family life.'

02/23/2026

Our vision is simple: to give pet owners the tools, knowledge, and confidence to help their canine companions truly flourish.

While my professional background is rooted in high-level search and rescue, my passion lies in supporting everyday dog owners.

Training is grounded in positive reinforcement and kind, ethical methods that prioritize both performance and welfare.

Dogs learn best when they feel safe, understood, and motivated.

Rather than creating dependence on a trainer, our approach focusing on empowering you - building clear communication, practical skills, and lasting trust.

Our goal is to help you develop a calm, confident and reliable dog - not through force or fear, but through clarity, consistency and connection.