Alexandria Hawk Dog Training

05/29/2026

05/28/2026

TRAINER OR BEHAVIOURIST?

Dog guardians are often confused about when to request the assistance of a trainer and when to seek the help of a behaviourist because their titles and roles frequently overlap.

In summary, trainers teach obedience skills and manners (sit, stay, down, recalls), while behaviourists uncover and treat the underlying emotional roots of complex issues like reactivity, fear, anxiety or aggression. Trainers and behaviourists often work as a team with veterinary professionals on complex cases. In some countries, all behaviourists are veterinarians as per that countries regulations. In South Africa roles can overlap so it is not always clear to guardians as to who they can turn to.

Some behaviour problems can be labeled as disobedience or stubborness by guardians. For example, a dog barking and lunging on a leash isn't necessarily being difficult; they are often experiencing an emotional stress response. Group training classes, board & train facilities and obedience cues like 'sit' or 'corrections' won't solve the core fear generated by the discrete emotional system in the brain.These types of emotional issues requires the assistance of a behaviourist to uncover the root causes of the fear or reactivity. Behaviour work can take months to see improvements as the learns self regulation and alternate coping strategies.

In South Africa, the roles and professional status' of 'dog trainer' and 'dog behaviourist' are not legally regulated. Anyone with basic internet qualifications or access to YouTube or experience only can market themselves as an expert, leaving guardians confused. Working with animals is a science and no longer left to experience only like it was 30 years ago. Working with animals requires an understanding of learning theory, psychology, emotionality, brain systems, anatomy and physiology in addition to a host of other subjects. Experience with qualifications can unlock solutions to complex issues.

In addition to qualifications from reputable schools or universities, guardians in South Africa should can check the websites of following international professional bodies to confirm membership credentials of their trainer or behaviourist:
1. Pet Professional Guild
2. Coape Association of Behaviourists and Trainers International (Cabti).
3. International Companion Animal Network (ICAN)
These bodies have ethical, humane, positive reinforcement and science driven philosophies as fundamental principles, and as such, they will only accept professionals who will abide by these core values. These professionals agree to certain standards of practice and codes of behaviour which are published and which often gives guardians some level of comfort in the approaches, methods and tools used by the professional.

Choose your professional wisely. It will make all the difference to your dog's physical and emotional wellbeing.

05/20/2026

Start your training journey with AH Dog Training!

We are currently taking new clients in the South County area only. Session spots are limited, get started by booking your consultation online today!
www.ahdogtrainingri.com
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Have questions? Contact us by emailing [email protected] or text 401-226-7983

05/08/2026

Our summer pack walk schedule is out and all walks are open for registration!🦮

These walks are designed for dogs who need to work on their emotions around other dogs. Whether that’s excitement, nervousness, or conflicted, we set up these sessions so dogs are at a distance where they can keep calmer and process their emotions.

We start out with nervous system regulation games so your dog regulates their emotions before the walking even begins!

The dogs participate in sniffaris around each other, no dragging parents or overstimulated walking here!

Register by commenting the date you would like to join or by visiting our website
www.ahdogtrainingri.com
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05/07/2026

Our Cool Ya Collars class is back and open for registration!

This six-week class will meet from 9:30 - 10:30am and start June 6th, running until July 25th, skipping 6/20 & 7/4 in observance of the holidays.

We practice skills for dogs who have a hard time with triggers such as other dogs, people, & vehicles. This class is for dogs who show mild and severe reactions. Please contact us before signing up if your dog has a bite history.

Among the material includes nervous system resets, stress resiliency, neutrality to their trigger, life skills for walks & stressful situations, confidence building for both you and your dog, and fun!

We understand how hard it is to have a dog with big feelings and are dedicated to helping dogs feel comfortable and calm in their everyday life. We also understand the hardship directly on the parents, and offer support and guidance for them as well as the pets.

Request more info by commenting BIG FEELINGS or visit or website
www.ahdogtrainingri.com
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05/07/2026

✨AKC STAR Puppy Class starts back up June 2nd!✨

This class has open enrollment, meaning you can join any week! Set your puppy up for success by joining 6 consecutive classes to earn their AKC STAR Puppy title or choose sessions to join just for the material and exposure! If you join all six weeks, your puppy will practice ✨twenty✨ new skills!

Along with learning sit, down, settle, come, leash walking, & leave it, we also discuss:
✨ House training
✨ Crate training
✨ Counter surfing
✨ Calm greetings
✨ Grooming participation
✨ How to implement skills in life

Other things we focus on:
🐾 Games to teach skills
🐾 Emotional learning
🐾 Stress resiliency
🐾 Real-world exposure
🐾 Healthy socialization
🐾 Relaxation skills
🐾 Proactive training
🐾 Confidence building
🐾 Giving autonomy & choice

The Details
🐶 8 weeks - 10 months
📍 Rumford Pet Express in Middletown

💉 First set of distemper shots are required, rabies is required for pups over 16 weeks old.
💰 $185 +tax
📋 Register by commenting PUPPY, in-store, or online at www.ahdogtrainingri.com
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puppylove puppytraining puppyplay puppysocialization

05/01/2026

We will be closed next week to catch up on admin work and studying! I will not be providing any services during this time. I plan to still respond to texts, emails, and calls but it may be slow as I’m prioritizing the “behind-the-scenes” work. 🐾

Thanks for your support and understanding!💝

04/22/2026

A dog that listens out of pressure isn’t the same as one who chooses to.

When dogs understand what works and want to engage, that’s when behavior is at its best.

Try to view training with your dog as communicating. We are trying to have a conversation with them. Let’s make that conversation as positive and encouraging as we can. 💜

04/15/2026

Check out our YouTube page for organized tutorials, tips, & even full sessions!

Don’t forget to subscribe to stay informed on new videos!

www.YouTube.com/
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04/14/2026

Max is nervous of new dogs, he’s only six months old and is still navigating how to feel about new things.

At the beginning of our session, he was pulled back from the window, letting out little grumbles and woofs. By the end he was confident and able to put his head out the window to sniff and watch the dogs in the park, as well as coming & going.

The key to socialization is allowing your dog time and space to watch. With this they can navigate their feelings while learning more about the new animal or thing.

Good job, Max! 🐭

Need help properly socializing your puppy or dog? Contact us today!
www.ahdogtrainingri.com
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