Canine Coach travels within North County San Diego. Areas include: Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, La Costa, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Bonsall and Fallbrook.

Virtual Training is recommended for clients outside of the in-person service area. Canine Coach may consider traveling outside of the service area for an additional cost. If cost is an issue, finding a good trainer in your area is the next best option. For questions on cost, please schedule the phone consultation to speak with the trainer personally.

The methods Canine Coach uses are based in the Psychological Sciences. Ariel specializes in both Human and Canine Psychology. She has studied and practiced Cynology for over a decade. The most common methods used include Classical Conditioning, Counter Conditioning (Ivan Pavlov, 1849-1936) and Operant Conditioning (B.F. Skinner, 1904-1990). Most emphasis goes into two of the four quadrants of operant conditioning: Positive Reinforcement and Negative Reinforcement. Varied amounts of Positive Punishment and Negative Punishment are used depending on the situation.

Canine Coach uses an array of different techniques based on the individual dog and the owners desired outcome. Deciding what techniques are best for each dog is a vital part to helping owners and their dogs attain both happiness AND success. Some factors that are considered include: a dogs temperament, personality, level of obedience desired, behavioral issues of concern, breed, age, size, the owner's feelings about the techniques used as well as the owner's ability to learn the skills they will be using.

The methodology and techniques used in training sessions are explained and discussed with clients throughout training. Owners are very much included in the decision making processes. They will be the ones using these techniques on a daily basis. It is important that the owner understands what will work for their dog and what will not. Understanding WHY we are using them and HOW to use them is included in the education all owners receive with Canine Coach. For those wanting to find out more beforehand, feel free to ask questions during the phone consultation and the in-home evaluation.

Canine Coach does not commonly suggest the use of an E-collar. Although in some cases using one in addition to other methods may be appropriate. Providing education on how to use it properly may be considered. This should be discussed with the trainer personally.

Canine Coach does not commonly suggest the use of prong/pinch collars. If a client prefers to use it as a training tool, it can be discussed with the trainer. Education on how to use it properly may be considered in addition to other methods suggested.

Canine Coach firmly believes in using the least amount of punishment necessary to see positive results. For dog owners specifically wanting to use mostly aversive methods in training, Canine Coach recommends finding a trainer who is willing to use those techniques and one who specializes in them. It is important that a dog owner choses the right trainer for them and a trainer accepts students who fit their training style.

Ariel Santa Maria is the sole trainer at Canine Coach. Her passion is to help owners and their dogs live happier and healthier lives together. She sets the bar high, for herself and others, and strives for a positive experience and success with every client. Therefore, it is important that clients who works with her, match her and her training style well. She desires the same. A phone consultation as well as an in-home evaluation is a great way to meet your trainer personally. She encourages you to ask questions! Ask about her experience, her favorite dog breeds or why she's devoted her life to teaching. Ask, ask away. You will know you found the right trainer when it feels right to you.

No. All Breeds are welcomed to join Canine Coach’s team.

Canine Coach accepts clients and their dogs on a case-by-case basis. Please fill out the contact form and you can discuss your situation with Ariel during the Phone Consultation. She will let you know if she can help.

Canine Coach specializes in the human-dog connection. She can teach you and your dog skills from basic obedience to backyard agility for fun. Canine Coach does not train personal protection dogs, police and military K9s, competition or showdog. Some unique lessons she has done in the past include: