Great Companions LLC

I've been taking classes at Great Companions with Ali for over ten years. I started taking her class for reactive dogs after several private lessons. I'd never experienced a reactive dog and didn't understand the underlying fear involved in the behavior. My dog was a large puppy (think great dane!) and would lunge and bark at other dogs while on leash and cower and shake when meeting new people or being exposed to loud noises, including thunder. I felt completely useless. That all changed after working with Ali. Her methods are scientifically based, humane, and yes positive reinforcing. This does not mean permissive. Anyone who looks at her website will be immediately aware that she uses non force training methods. This was exactly that approach I needed with my reactive dog. If you are looking for a quick fix, there is none. You have to put the work in. Training my dog is not about yelling at him and dragging him around. It is all about fostering a trusting relationship between us so that we want to work and learn together. My dog now chooses to be with me. He comes when he's called, and he checks in with me when he's unsure about his environment. He will be twelve years old soon, and he's turned into the best family member. Over the years, we have graduated to taking other classes at Great Companions such as Rally-O and Agility and Scent Detective classes! He has learned how to be around strangers and other dogs after appropriate introductions. And, I've traveled with him cross country several times staying in many different cities and hotels. I could never have this amazing relationship with him and have him participate in my life as he does without Ali Brown. And, my younger dog, a rottweiler, has been through all of Ali's foundation classes and participated in her first Rally trial last spring! My rottweiler is the sweetest, most gentle, girl and I used all force free training methods from 8 weeks old until now. She too travels with me everywhere and is a perfect visitor. This is not easy, and it's not supposed to be. Dogs are sentient beings with individual personalities and maladies. We need to be able to communicate with them in a language that they understand and one that they will WANT to learn and work with us. Thank you, Ali for teaching us that language!