About Coaching Canine Companions
Revolutionizing Dog Training:
A Journey Beyond Obedience
What If Everything You Knew About Dog Training Was Wrong?
For decades, traditional dog training has relied on outdated methods—reinforcing control, suppressing behaviors, and missing the deeper emotional and psychological needs of our canine companions. But what if there was a better way? A way to not just train, but to heal, connect, and transform the bond between you and your dog?
At Coaching Canine Companions, we don’t just teach commands. We redefine the human-canine relationship, using cutting-edge science, energy balancing, and holistic wellness to unlock your dog’s true potential.
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The Turning Point:
A Radical Shift in Dog Training
My journey began far from the dog training world—deep in the study of human health, epigenetics, and psychology. Frustrated by a healthcare system that prioritizes symptom management over true healing, I immersed myself in the works of Carl Jung, Ben Lynch, Amy Yasko, and pioneers in Functional Medicine and Family Constellation Therapy.
What I uncovered was a profound truth:
The same principles that heal humans can transform dogs.
The ancient wisdom of cura te ipsum—“Physician, heal thyself”—became my guiding philosophy. If holistic healing can restore balance in people, why wouldn’t it work for our canine companions?
Through studies in Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, energy healing, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and K9 acupressure, I built a new foundation for understanding canine behavior. But when I encountered the traditional “obedience-first” training model, I knew something was wrong.
It was outdated.
Worse—it didn’t work.
This was my turning point. If psychology, bioenergy balancing, and emotional regulation could reshape human behavior, they could certainly do the same for dogs. After all, dogs have long been central to behavioral and pharmaceutical research designed to advance human psychology.
More Than Training—
A Transformational Experience
I refined my approach, tested it with hundreds of dogs, and the results were undeniable.
Coaching Canine Companions isn’t just about behavior modification—it’s about unlocking your dog’s innate intelligence, emotional balance, and ability to thrive.
We integrate cutting-edge science, bioenergy work, and an intuitive understanding of canine psychology to create life-changing transformations for both dogs and their humans.
Lorrie J. Harris
What Makes Us Different?
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We go beyond obedience. Training isn’t just about control—it’s about connection.
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We integrate holistic healing. Emotional balance, stress relief, and energy work aren’t just for humans
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We use neuroscience-backed techniques. Understanding how dogs learn, feel, and respond changes everything.
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We transform relationships. A well-trained dog isn’t just compliant—it’s deeply bonded with its human.
Lorrie J. Harris
Training Techniques
"Pets can evoke a profound love, often filling gaps left by human relationships."
-Alan Beck & Aron Katcher, Between Pets and People.
Balanced Dog Training: The Way of Nature
Welcome to our unique dog obedience training methods, where we embrace the natural harmony of positive and negative experiences to shape well-rounded, emotionally resilient canine companions. Our approach is distinct, rooted in the philosophy that nothing in nature is purely positive or negative. Combining relaxation techniques with healthy eustress, we help your dog develop the emotional resilience needed to thrive.
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Understanding Balanced Dog Training:
Balanced dog training blends positive reinforcement with appropriate, humane corrections. This method mirrors the balance found in nature, where both rewarding and challenging experiences contribute to growth and learning. Labeling training styles, our approach avoids placing your dog in a limiting box. Instead, we adapt our methods to suit each dog’s unique needs, ensuring optimal growth and development.
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The Role of Positive Reinforcement:
Positive reinforcement is a cornerstone of our training. By rewarding desirable behaviors with treats, toys, praise, or play, we encourage dogs to repeat these actions. This technique builds a strong foundation of trust and motivation, making training a joyful experience for you and your dog. For example, when teaching your dog to sit, each successful sit is met with a treat and a cheerful “Good job!” This positive association motivates your dog to sit whenever you ask, knowing a reward is forthcoming.
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The Importance of Humane Corrections:
In the natural world, animals learn from consequences. Similarly, balanced training uses humane corrections to discourage unwanted behaviors. These corrections are never harsh or punitive but are designed to provide clear feedback. For instance, if your dog jumps up on guests, a gentle but firm “No” followed by redirecting them to sit helps them understand that jumping is unacceptable. This balanced approach teaches boundaries while maintaining a positive relationship.
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Relaxation Techniques for Emotional Balance:
Relaxation techniques are vital in balanced training. They help to calm and focus your dog. These techniques are particularly useful for dogs with anxiety or high energy levels.
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Deep Breathing Exercises:
We teach dogs to modulate their nervous system and slow down their breathing with relaxation by modeling deep breaths and rewarding calm behavior.
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Gentle Touch and Massage:
Physical touch can be incredibly soothing. Gentle stroking or massage, especially in areas where dogs hold tension, helps them relax and feel secure.
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Creating a Calming Environment:
We ensure your dog’s space is peaceful and comfortable, using soft bedding, calming scents like Bach Flower Remedies, and quiet background music, like Lisa Spector's work, to create a serene atmosphere.
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Harnessing Healthy Eustress
Eustress, or positive stress, is essential for building emotional resilience. In nature, animals face challenges that help them grow stronger and more adaptable. Similarly, exposing your dog to manageable stress levels during training enhances their confidence and coping skills.
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Controlled Exposure:
We gradually expose your dog to new experiences, such as different environments, sounds, or social situations. We start with low-intensity exposures and gradually increase the challenge.
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Interactive Play:
Engaging in play that stimulates your dog’s mind and body can be a form of eustress. Puzzle toys, agility training, and structured games like fetch or tug-of-war provide beneficial challenges.
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Structured Training Sessions:
Consistent, focused training sessions introducing new commands or skills provide healthy stress. These sessions are balanced with positive reinforcement and breaks to prevent overwhelming your dog.
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Building Emotional Resilience:
We aim to create emotionally resilient dogs who can confidently navigate life’s ups and downs. Combining relaxation techniques and healthy eustress, we help dogs develop the skills they need to thrive.
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Consistency and Patience:
Consistency in training and daily routines helps dogs feel secure and understand what is expected. Patience is key, as every dog learns at their own pace.
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Positive Relationships:
We foster a strong bond between you and your dog based on trust and mutual respect. Quality time together, engaging in play, and showing affection reinforce this connection.
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Adaptive Learning:
We are flexible and responsive to your dog’s needs. If a particular training method isn’t working, we adjust our approach, ensuring the training remains effective and enjoyable.
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Conclusion
Balanced dog training is a natural, effective approach that mirrors the harmony found in nature. We nurture well-rounded, emotionally resilient dogs by integrating positive reinforcement, humane corrections, relaxation techniques, and healthy eustress. Remember, training is so much more than just teaching commands; it’s about building a relationship based on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. Embrace the balance, enjoy the process, and watch your dog flourish.
Ready to start your training journey? Contact us today to learn more about our balanced dog training methods and how we can help you and your canine companion achieve harmony and success.
Training & Certifications
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Master Dog Training Certification from the National K-9 School for Dog Trainers, regulated by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools.
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Experience with Bomb Detection Dogs, was certified through the International Police Working Dog Association.
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Member of the International Association of Canine Professionals.
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Registered AKC Canine Good Citizen Assessor.
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Certified Emotional Freedom Techniques Practitioner.
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K~9 Energy Healing Practitioner.
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K9 Behavior Coach
Meet Lorrie Harris:
Founder and Visionary
At Coaching Canine Companions, we’re proud to have Lorrie Harris as our lead Certified Master Dog Training Instructor. Lorrie is not just a trainer; she’s a pioneer in the field, specializing in building deep, meaningful connections between dogs and their owners. Her philosophy goes beyond traditional training, focusing on setting both you and your dog up for a lifetime of success.
With an impressive career spanning over three decades, Lorrie's passion for canine education started shortly after her service in the U.S. Navy. This transition saw her embarking on a formal dog training path in 2019, where she has since been revolutionizing the way we think about our relationships with our pets.
Lorrie's unique approach is greatly influenced by her extensive background in health coaching. This experience allows her to integrate wellness and mindfulness into her training methods, promoting not only obedience but overall well-being. Her holistic approach ensures that the training process is as beneficial for the dog’s mental and emotional health as it is for their behavior.
Moreover, Lorrie's experience with her Enneagram-based health coaching business has endowed her with a profound understanding of personality dynamics, which she adeptly applies to her dog training programs. This insight into behavioral motivation allows her to tailor her training methods to each dog's individual personality, facilitating a more effective and empathetic training experience.
Together with Lorrie Harris, Coaching Canine Companions doesn’t just train dogs—we foster thriving partnerships between dogs and their humans.
Join the Movement—Because This Is More Than Training
The question is no longer:
❌ "Do you need dog training?"
✅ "Do you belong to the Coaching Canine Companions movement?"
Let's start your journey today if you’re ready to experience the difference.
Learn More About the "Dog Training & Behavior" Coaching Program.
Top Dog Behavior Trips
Welcome to our top dog behavior training tips!
As pet parents ourselves, we understand the importance of a well-behaved and balanced furry friend.
Whether you have a new puppy or a seasoned companion, these expert tips will help you build a strong bond and have a happy, well-adjusted dog in no time!
1. Consistency is key:
Dogs thrive on routine and consistency. Set clear rules and expectations from the beginning and stick to them.
This will help your dog understand what is expected of them and create a peaceful and structured environment.
2. Positive reinforcement:
Play and Reward-based training is highly effective. Use treats, praise, and toys to reward your dog's good behavior.
This will encourage them to repeat those behaviors and learn faster. Remember to be generous with your praise and keep training sessions short and fun.
3. Be a strong leader:
Dogs are pack animals and look to their pup parents for guidance. Establish yourself as a confident and trustworthy leader by setting boundaries and providing guidance.
This will help your dog feel secure and reduce unwanted behaviors, such as excessive barking or separation anxiety.
4. Enrichment training and socialization:
Expose your dog to different people, animals, and environments from a young age. Proper enrichment and socialization is crucial for preventing fear and aggression issues. Gradually introduce your dog to new experiences and reward them for calm and confident behavior.
5. Exercise and mental stimulation:
A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Regular exercise helps release excess energy, reduces behavioral problems, and keeps your dog physically fit.
Additionally, mental stimulation through puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive games is just as important to keep their minds sharp and engaged.
6. Patience and persistence:
Dog training takes time and effort. Be patient with your furry friend and understand that each dog learns at their own pace. Celebrate small victories and remain consistent and persistent.
Your dedication will pay off, and you'll have a well-behaved dog who brings joy and companionship to your life.
Remember, training is an ongoing process, and it's never too late to start. Incorporate these tips into your daily routine and enjoy the rewards of a happy, obedient, and well-behaved dog.
If you want further guidance or in-depth training, be sure to check out our online dog behavior class or contact us for personalized assistance. Happy training!