The Canine Resolution Philosophy

Canine Resolution stands out for its meticulous attention to detail. With over thirty years of experience in pet obedience and competitive training, we have amassed a wealth of knowledge that we are excited to share.

Our services include puppy and graduate group classes, private lessons and boarding with training, each designed to cater to the unique needs of you and your pet. 

We recognize that learning rates vary between individuals and dogs; therefore, personalized private lessons with a Canine Resolution Coach enable both pet and owner to progress to new subjects at a comfortable pace. A consistent learning rate is essential for the success of both you and your dog. This is one of the many reasons we recommend private lessons over group classes for the beginner dog. 

Play-based dog training

Canine Resolution goes beyond simple commands and reinforcements. It's not about reducing oneself to just a food dispenser to control the dog, nor about becoming an authoritarian to quell the dog's spirit. Your dog is more than just a participant in a "Skinner's box"; it is a sentient being deserving of respectful treatment.

Our training is founded on social interactions, teaching your dog how to play games. These games tap into the dog's genetics, providing them with a purpose and allowing them to utilize their natural instincts. These games have objectives and rules that must be followed, fostering cooperation and a genuine relationship with the dog. When you have a true relationship, you aim to please one another and enjoy doing so.

These games are also intrinsically motivating.

Intrinsic motivation involves engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction rather than for any obvious external reward (Oudeyer and Kaplan, 2009). If we are intrinsically motivated, the reward lies in the sheer challenge and enjoyment of the task and the satisfaction of seeing it through.

·        Play is a great social interaction.

·        Play is a fantastic way for you or others to bond with your dog.

·        Play is great exercise for the dog.

·        Play increases motivation when the dog becomes a skillful player in the game!

·        Play taps into a different part of the brain than food does, it is a primary reinforcer built into the dog’s nervous system.

·        Play releases feel good chemicals like dopamine.

·        Play is both fun for the dog and the person.

Marc and Carrie have successfully completed and passed the written and practical exams of Ivan Balabanov's TWC™ dog training course, making them two of only five TWC Training Without Conflict™ certified dog trainers in Michigan.

Ivan Balabonov words about dog training …

“If you really want to be an exceptional trainer… you must first change the way to think. Change the way you understand and look at dogs It’s not all about classical and operant conditioning definitions and application. That stuff is important… but it falls tragically short. Once you really understand what I’m saying here… the results you get with dogs will be nothing short of spectacular. And they come so much faster and easier.

Your experience with dogs becomes magical”

Ivan Balabonov