Livermore's Pawswise Dog Training uses gentle approach

For most people, the family dog is just that – part of the family. But like children, our dogs usually need some training! The household is happier when pooches have good manners.

Dog owners have a powerful ally in Harline Larkey, owner of Pawswise Dog Training in Livermore. With 40 years of experience in dog training, she works with individual dogs in their homes. She is also available for presentations to organizations, and in the near future she plans to offer a variety of classes in the Livermore-Red Feather Lakes area for family dogs and puppies.

Harline uses a calm, positive approach to educating dogs. After years of using both punishment and praise, she now teaches management and prevention of undesirable behaviors and the use of varied rewards including food and access to things the dog wants. This approach results in a happier, more focused and more reliable dog.

She also believes dogs need a sense of safety and predictability. This insight was gained through experience with her own Great Dane, Ellie, who was anxious, dog-aggressive and unable to focus.  “When I understood her needs, she was able to trust me,” Harline said. Ellie felt safe and blossomed.

While Harline specializes in fearful, anxious and aggressive behaviors, she is also an expert at teaching basic manners and impulse control. In 2010, her philosophy and success led to a featured article about her in the Chronicle of the Dog, the professional magazine for pet dog trainers.

Harline can be reached at 970-493-2016, [email protected] or www.pawswise.com.