Train smarter, not harder.
…increase your bond with your dog, strengthen your relationship AND still eliminate any unwanted behaviors.
What if I told you that dog training is EASY and that there is a positive, fun way to create or correct any behavior you might be struggling with? What if I told you that there is no big “secret” in how to train your dog, but that is all comes down to the well established science of animal behavior, and a good communication system!? What if I told you that you could increase your bond with your dog, strengthen your relationship AND still eliminate any unwanted behavior? Well, THAT is what I am telling you!
The truth about dog training is that if done correctly it will be the MOST FUN you have ever had with your dog! When you utilize the science of behavior and keep your relationship with your dog front and center you will be rewarded with a wonderful dog who is a DREAM to be around! If that sounds confusing, don’t worry -I am here to help! I am a Certified Pet Dog Trainer (CPDT-KA) offering a variety of classes and private training services. My goal is to provide you with the skills needed to communicate with your dog and shape their behavior in a humane, positive manner! Let me help your dog become the ideal canine companion that you KNOW he or she can become!
Meet the Trainer
Nice to meet you, I’m Mim Coward. I am a Licensed Veterinary Technician, A Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed and a Fear Free Certified Professional offering classes in Portland and Brunswick Mane (at Midcoast Humane Society) and private services to southern and mid-coast Maine.
I am committed to using evidence-based humane training methods using positive reinforcement and force-free techniques! From puppy manners to aggression, come see how much better YOUR dog can be!
I came out of the WOMB loving animals. I am not even joking. My first “pet”? The SNAILS I used to catch in the yard and smuggle in the house when I was 5! My natural passion for animals led me first to the veterinary field where I became a Licensed Veterinary Technician. Through my work in the veterinary field I also fell in love with the science of behavior, and dog training specifically. As an animal lover I was THRILLED when I learned that behavior science teaches us that we can shape ANY animal’s behavior easily all using positive methods and eliminate the need for any harsh punishments or corrections!
I became a Fear Free Certified Professional, where I learned how to help reduce fear, anxiety, stress and aggression in dogs at the veterinary hospital. Fear Free work allowed me to learn a variety of positive training methods for working with highly fearful, and often dangerous dogs. Simultaneously, I obtained my Certified Professional Dog Training - Knowledge Assessed certification and am now working towards advanced certification in behavior consultation and modification. While no longer a practicing veterinary technician so that I can dedicate my time to my training business, I offer consulting services for veterinarians, and body handling and cooperative veterinary care training to clients individually.
My passion lies in helping dogs and owners reach new heights and overcome whatever challenges they might be facing, all using positive training methods, engagement and relationship based training. I don’t just work to change a dog’s behavior, I want to change that RELATIONSHIP and show owners just how wonderful and easy things can be when it is based on evidence based, humane training methods, a true understanding of the science of behavior and an engaged working relationship. My commitment to the use of only positive, humane, force-free training techniques for all dogs creates a fun learning environment for BOTH ends of the leash - while opening up an endless supply of creative training solutions for any issue you may be struggling with.
Through my education in behavioral science and veterinary medicine and my experiences both as a Fear Free Certified Professional and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer I have seen first hand the amazing power of positive training and am dedicated to doing my part every day to spread that knowledge, and the absolute JOY of dog training and behavior science with the world!