Hi, I’m noah valade.
I have a professional background of 5 years+ in canine behavior modification as a professional dog trainer and behaviorist. I specialize in basic obedience, behavior modification, psychiatric service dog training, agility, scent detection, and search and rescue (SAR). I have developed a program based on past experience with SAR, tracking, and detection that will enable me to not only train you and your dog with the basics but also help you further develop their natural skills and abilities so your dog can live a fulfilling and healthy life with you.
In addition to working as a professional dog trainer, I have my Bachelors in Security and Emergency Management, major in Homeland Security & Emergency Management specializing in Climate Risk and Security; and am in graduate school for a Masters in Security & Disaster Management specializing in Policy and International Affairs.
Hi, I’m nicole McClelland
I’ve been working with dogs in one capacity or another for nearly four years. I specialize in helping dogs in obedience, manners, as well as with mild reactivity and behavior modification. I enjoy the challenge of getting to know each dog’s unique personality and finding the right approach that helps them (and their humans) succeed.
Outside of training, I like to stay active with hiking and volleyball, and I’m always up for a good conversation, challenge, or a great book. Working with dogs constantly teaches me valuable lessons like patience, creative problem-solving, and the understanding that no two situations (or dogs) are exactly alike. These insights not only shape how I train, but how I live.
I’m passionate about helping dogs and their owners build better relationships through thoughtful, respectful, realistic, and effective training.
My Approach
Versatile Canine Training is all about finding the right methodology that fits your dog’s unique personality and needs. As we work together, I will work with you in identifying how you reward positive behavior, address unwanted behaviors, and discover activities that match your dog breeds natural instincts and incorporate that into the training.
why is this important?
Training your dog beyond basic puppy classes is important for their safety and your peace of mind. Without proper communication and boundaries, dogs can develop unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, reactivity, destructive chewing, jumping, or chasing squirrels and cars. These habits create unpredictability in your dog, strain your bond with them, and create frustration within you. Training creates the necessary trust, clear communication, and a happier, safer relationship with your dog.
my mission
To help every household with a dog to have healthy, active relationships that will promote fulfilling, long, fun, and stress free lives. To ensure owners are able to recognize the signs and reasonings behind their dog’s behavior so they can be addressed correctly and to minimize stress for both owner and dog. To be completely transparent during the training sessions so there’s no confusion on what needs to be done and WHY. To be a guide through this developmental process, as it will take time to learn what works best for your dog as “no one size fits all” exists when it comes to training.
Here’s what my past clients had to say