Our Mission
At Pacific Island Dog Training, our mission is to build strong, trusting relationships between dogs and their people through connection, communication, and mutual respect.
We believe lasting results come from understanding—not quick fixes. Through proven, thoughtful training methods, we help dogs and their owners build confidence, develop reliable obedience, and learn the skills they need to thrive in everyday life.
Our goal is to create a deep connection between human and dog, fostering clear communication and a foundation of trust that lasts a lifetime. We are passionate about helping dogs and their people become the best versions of themselves—together.
Connection. Confidence. Obedience. Results.
Calm Leadership
Clear Boundaries
Canine Connection
Twenty years on the leash teaches one fundamental truth: calm and confident handlers raise reliable dogs.
We establish structured instruction and clear communication, building a language between you and your dog.
Our program fosters lifelong partnership, transforming behavior through trust.
Working as a scientist for over 25 years in education and in the pharmaceutical industry, science is the foundation of our training philosophy.
At Pacific Island Dog Training, we believe effective training is rooted in science, communication, and a strong relationship between dog and owner. We primarily use reward-based training and current, evidence-informed methodologies to create behaviors that dogs understand and want to repeat. While positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of our approach, we believe skilled trainers should understand the full science of operant conditioning and have the knowledge and experience to thoughtfully use all four quadrants of dog training when appropriate. We strive to prioritize the dog’s welfare, clarity, and emotional well-being. Every dog and owner is different, which is why we create customized training plans based on their individual needs, lifestyle, challenges, and goals. Our focus is on practical, reliable skills and lasting behavior change—not quick fixes—so that owners can see meaningful progress within a reasonable timeframe while building a confident, cooperative, and rewarding partnership with their dog.
Empirical Learning Theory
Our methodology relies on proven principles of canine learning, motivation, and cognitive focus. By understanding how dogs process environmental cues, we replace confusion with reliable communication.
Over 20+ years experience
Scientific principles reach their full potential when tempered by extensive field practice. Over twenty years of active behavioral work enable us to read behaviors and adapt to each dog's individual temperament.
Pacific Island Dog Training - Building Trust. Creating Connection. Growing Confidence. Delivering Obedience & Results with Aloha
Training Pathways
Tailored Programs for Every Stage
Basic Obedience
Foundational learning and basic commands. Build confidence, and strengthen communication with your dog through positive, practical training. Intro to loose leash walking and polite greetings.
Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Certfication
Preparation for the Canine Good Citizen test and refine public access skills. Master advanced obedience cues, reliable recalls, and confident behavior in distracting environments.
Advanced Off-Leash Obedience
Master precise control and freedom with our advanced courses, building confidence in any environment.
Foster and Train / Raise and Train (puppies)
An intensive program for setting up your dog with success by teaching the foundations for obedience and good behavior. Your dog lives and trains with our head trainer, building new habits and clear boundaries in a structured environment.
Advanced Obedience
Build on foundational obedience, proofing commands in challenging environments while introducing distraction, distance, and duration with our structured curriculum. Master loose leash and walking in heel.
Schedule a behavior consultation to discuss your dog's needs and our proven approach to a well trained and obedient canine companion