Dogs naturally look for structure and a leader of the pack, and here's how The Dog Wizard can strengthen your role as the alpha

By Patricia Nugent

Living up to its name, the talented team at The Dog Wizard training center in Medina magically transforms behavior in pooches all over Northeast Ohio.

Owners and trainers Steve and Aurelia Martin work with each dog to build trust, discover the rewards that reinforce the behaviors you want to see—and get rid of the ones you don’t— and coach owners on how to act as pack leaders. Joining the Martins is certified trainer Bobby Rearrick, who brings an abundance of knowledge and experience. They offer group classes, private training, board-and-train packages and free support in the form of semi-weekly group walks and drills on Saturdays once a training package is completed.

“Our mission is to strengthen the bond of owner and best friend so they both enjoy a harmonious life,” says Aurelia. “A dog is naturally looking for structure and we teach them and their owners how to operate within that pack structure. Space and place are important. In the wild, the leader is positioned at a higher level, like on a hillside, so they can protect the pack. We tell owners to respect their alpha space and not let dogs jump up on the furniture with them, as that would put them both on the same level. Dogs should only be allowed up with you if you control the situation and invite them there.”

A Transformation Story
All the success stories at The Dog Wizard are transformational, yet there are a few that tug at your heartstrings.

Samson is an 85-pound, 3-year-old Doberman Pinscher that suffered from anxiety and aggression. He reacted poorly around people and other dogs. A raw wound formed on his knuckle from him licking a certain spot and his owners couldn’t even touch it to put medicine on it.

“After a bad episode at the vet’s office, when he went after the staff after he forced his muzzle off, the owners brought Samson to us for a Board and Train,” says Steve. “The first thing I did was work to earn his trust and calm his mind. I couldn’t work on behavior until his anxiety was decreased. I got down on the floor with him and slowly gained his trust through positive reinforcement. After a few days, I was able to roll him over, rub his belly and put the medicine on his wound. The owner just sent me a picture of Samson relaxing nicely on his cot, and said he was like a new dog.”

Paint Your Pet Parties
Aurelia continues a fun event to celebrate pets. It’s simple and wildly fun. You sign up, pay for your canvas, email or text a favorite photo of your pet. (It doesn’t have to be a dog.) As a trained artist, Aurelia will bring your photo to life, sketching it onto a canvas. You come to the dog training facility to paint your pet on the day of the event.

“We have individuals or groups of friends take part in this and have a ball,” she explains. “It’s a thoughtful gift, too, especially when it might be done as a memorial to a beloved pet that has passed away.” The next Paint your Pet Party will be in June or July. Watch their Facebook for an announcement of the date. Proceeds from the parties go to a local animal shelter and the events are limited to 25 people.

The Dog Wizard Training Center is located at 226 N. State, in Medina. For more information, call 330-245-1097 or visit TheDogWizard.com. Just fill out the contact form on their website and they will reach out to you.